Hi Tech!
Startup Welcome Package
Your entry point into the German construction industry
The Stuttgart region is home to the highest concentration of architecture firms in Germany – surrounded by engineering offices, construction companies, and real estate developers. If you're building technology for the built environment, this is where your customers are.
The Startup Welcome Package Region Stuttgart opens that door. Run by GROUNDBREAKERS, the innovation alliance for the construction and real estate industry, on behalf of the Stuttgart Region Economic Development Corporation (WRS) as part of the Hi Tech! initiative, Batch #11 is fully focused on ConTech for the first time.
Applications are open till August 9, 2026. Secure your spot and take the first step towards the German market.
What you will get?
Initiate Corporate Pilots
Structured matchmaking with decision-makers from our corporate network.
Market Entry & Relocation
Soft-landing support and strategic positioning in Europe's premier industrial hub.
High Velocity Exposure
Pitch live at the GROUNDBREAKERS Summit and gain instant validation from the German ecosystem.
How does it work?
Phase 1: Remote (5 Oct – 6 Nov, 2026)
5 Weeks Remote Phase: Global Tech Validation & Corporate Matching (15–18 Selected Startups)
3 Phases to Break New Ground
1
2
Phase 2: On Site (23 Nov – 4 Dec, 2026)
10 Days On-Site in Stuttgart: High-Impact Corporate Pilots & Deep Dives (Top 10 Startups – 1 Founder each)
Who should apply?
Ambitious ConTech startups and scalps from anywhere in the world that want to enter the German market and are ready to work with corporates on concrete projects – across the full building lifecycle, from planning and construction to operation and deconstruction.
Existing Traction & Revenue in Home Market
Ready for Commercial Pilot Project
Focus: ConTech & Scale-ready DeepTech
Phase 1: Remote
5 Oct – 6 Nov 2026
5 Weeks. Zero Friction. Maximum Alignment.
Just 3 hours per week – 1.5 hours of input, 1.5 hours of hands-on working sessions. You'll sharpen your pitch, learn the legal and structural specifics of the German construction industry, and prepare for how German corporates actually do business.
Format:
5 Weeks | 1.5 Hours Input + 1.5 Hours Working Session per week
Phase 2:The On-Site Experience
23 Nov – 4 Dec 2026
10 Days in Stuttgart. Where Deals and Foundations are Made.
Business-Side
The Concept:
A radical break from passive company visits, switching to active co-creation instead.
The Content:
Every site and office visit is structured as a highly focused collaborative format. It features tailored tech-workshops, corporate speed-dating, and exclusive deep-dive slots
The Outcome:
Immediate clarity on technical integration, compliance, and pilot project budgets right on-site.
Cultural-Side
The Concept:
Signature networking event designed to break the ice between international tech and regional industry roots.
The Content:
No stiff corporate dinners. We invite matching corporate partners to step out of the boardroom and join the founders in an informal kitchen setting.
The Outcome:
Fast and authentic trust-building. In the German Mittelstand, partnerships are founded on personal trust
Ecosystem-Side
The Concept:
Helping founders truly feel and understand why the Stuttgart economic region is their premier European hub for strategic relocation
The Content:
An immersive, fast-paced journey through Stuttgart's cultural and technical landmarks guided directly by the Groundbreakers team.
Mercedes-Benz Museum
The Outcome:
A deep, first-hand understanding of the region's industrial DNA, economic support network, and exceptional local quality of life.
Some Places you will be visiting:
Construction Site:
New Train Station
(Stuttgart 21)
Best of Stuttgart
Christmas Market
Hidden Bars
Still not sure about it?
Ask Nelly!
>>>
She’ll be happy to answer all your questions!