Our Academy

Start Your Global Expansion With the Kickstart International Program

German Accelerator’s Academy provides German startups with a head start on their journey to internationalization. With the help of our Kickstart International program, we equip startups with the necessary skills and tools needed to build a successful and scalable international business. We empower program participants to make critical early decisions on product, market, and business models while boosting their global mindset to help improve their growth trajectories for success on an international level.

In a Nutshell

The Kickstart International program will help you understand why and when you should consider internationalization and equip you with the knowledge needed to build a global business.
It is a virtual program with half-day sessions over a time period of two weeks.
The program is open to startups of all stages and industries who have an interest in international expansion and growth.
The next application deadline for the program from September 14 – September 23, 2021 (industry agnostic) is August 16, 2021, and the program from October 12 – 21, 2021 (life sciences focus) is August 30, 2021.

What’s In It
For Your Startup?

Get the Basics Right

Understand the basics and tools needed to successfully expand your business internationally.

Learn From the Best

Tap into our global mentor pool to help your startup incorporate program learnings into your overall business approach.

Measure Your International Readiness

Receive feedback on your readiness for internationalization to develop a solid base for your international expansion.

Save Valuable Resources

Make critical early decisions on product, market, and business model and avoid costly mistakes to boost your company’s growth.

Access to Our Global Network

Expand your individual business network with highly valuable contacts on both a national and international level.

100% Free. No Fees. No Equity

The program is free of charge, and we don’t take equity. No strings attached.

“With our Kickstart International program, we are equipping startups with the necessary skills and tools to build successful and scalable international businesses.”

Matthias Notz

CEO of German Accelerator and Managing Director of German Entrepreneurship

Want to Get Your Business Ready for International Success?

Let us help you get a head start on your global expansion journey with our Kickstart International program. Do you have more questions? Find our FAQs here.

I'M READY TO APPLY

Our Knock-Out Criteria
For All Programs

Corporation in Germany

Your company must be incorporated in Germany

Accepted Legal Form

Accepted legal forms are UG, AG, GmbH, GmbH & Co. KG

EU De-Minimis Aid Regulation

Must be under the limit of the official EU De-minimis aid regulation

How to
Get Started

Submit Your Application

Provide your pitch deck and answer questions on your company.

Selection Process

Our Selection Committee will review your application and eligible startups will be notified.

Time to Roll Up Your Sleeves!

Participate in our virtual program over 2 weeks and start working on the basics for international expansion via 1:1 mentor sessions, workshops, and fireside chats with our expert mentors.

Ready, Set, Go!

With a global mindset in place and feedback on your startup’s readiness for international expansion, start working on your milestones and next steps. If you’re ready to take the next step, check out German Accelerator’s Market Discovery and Market Access offerings.