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Coaching and Financing

Coaching

At TH OWL, we offer consulting and support services to all those interested in entrepreneurship and founders, from the initial idea to business model and product development, all the way to market readiness. Our support offerings are available both within the university and in collaboration with an extensive network of experienced and knowledgeable partners who also provide their expertise to aspiring entrepreneurs.

Our entrepreneurial coaches possess diverse subject-matter expertise and can provide guidance on various focal topics. The current stage of the entrepreneurial idea is inconsequential; coaching sessions involve evaluating the present status of the entrepreneurial endeavor and collaboratively discussing and planning the next steps. Advice is also provided on financing options and support programs.
 

Our Offerings:

  • Initial consultation for those interested in entrepreneurship
  • Consultation for founders
  • Information on funding programs and financing options
  • Events for aspiring entrepreneurs and networking opportunities
  • Connection with experts in the field



Interested? Feel free to reach out to us and schedule a consultation appointment at gruenden@th-owl.de. Entrepreneurial consultation is available to all students, alumni, academic staff, professors, and researchers.  

 

    Funding

    The question "And how do I finance my idea?" is likely one of the most frequently asked and crucial ones in the context of entrepreneurship. In this regard as well, the Entrepreneurship Center provides support by offering advice on federal and North Rhine-Westphalia state funding opportunities. Additionally, the center connects individuals interested in starting a business with experts in its network who provide guidance on topics such as business plans, loans, venture capital, and more.

    You can find more information about specific financing options and scholarships on the following pages:

    You don't know which programme is right for you? Then get in touch with us and make an appointment for a consultation. gruenden@th-owl.de.

    Kickstart@FH

    You have an innovative idea that you want to advance, but you're not sure how? Are you lacking the financial support to bring your startup to life? Then apply for the "KickStart@TH OWL" program. To be eligible, you need to be a student at TH OWL. Apply as an individual or as a team. KickStart@TH OWL offers you up to €7,500 in funding over a six-month period. In addition, you'll receive support from our coaches, access to networks and industry contacts, and free entry to our laboratories and co-working spaces.

    You can find more information here

     

    Gründerstipendium NRW

    The Gründerstipendium NRW (Entrepreneur Scholarship NRW) is designed to enable you to fully concentrate on your business venture. With financial support of €1,200 per founding member per month, for a duration of up to 12 months, the Gründerstipendium offers you the optimal conditions to swiftly achieve success with your startup. In addition to the financial assistance, experienced entrepreneurial coaches are available to guide you through challenging decisions and connect you with the business and industrial sectors.

    Find out here how you can apply for the NRW start-up scholarship.

     

    EXIST-Gründerstipendium

    The EXIST-Gründerstipendium (The EXIST Start-up Grant) empowers you to launch your startup directly from the university, whether you're a student, a research staff member, or a graduate. The EXIST Start-up Grant provides crucial backing for your entrepreneurial journey if you have a promising idea. This grant can offer financial support ranging from €1,000 to €2,000 per month. Alongside the financial support, entrepreneurial coaches are available to assist you with challenging decisions.

    Find out here whether the EXIST-Gründersipendium is suitable for you and how you can apply.

     

    EXIST-Forschungstransfer

    EXIST Research Transfer is targeted at research teams within both universities and non-university research institutes. This support is structured into two funding phases. The initial phase focuses on advancing research concepts with potential for startups and preparing for the startup process. The subsequent phase aims to establish the company, refine the product, and strategize for additional external funding. Additional information is accessible here.

     

    Business Angel Netzwerk OWL

    The Business Angel Network OWL (abbreviated as BAN.OWL) is a part of the Technology Transfer and Entrepreneurship Center at the University of Paderborn (TecUP). It comprises experienced entrepreneurs from the Ostwestfalen-Lippe region who have already invested venture capital in start-ups or have demonstrated competence for future business angel investments through their business activities. As part of the BAN.OWL network, TecUP provides expert presentations from seasoned business angels, as well as networking and pitch events involving regional start-ups. Network members financially support innovations in their early stages and are willing to take on the associated risks, investing both their personal resources and time into these emerging companies.

    Here is more information.

     

    Scale-up.NRW

    Scale-up.NRW assists you and your startup in scaling and expanding into international markets. Over the course of the 18-month program, you will be guided by experienced coaches on your journey toward achieving international success.

    Find out here how Scale-up.NRW can help your start-up and what requirements are needed for Scale-up.NRW.

    WIPANO

    The WIPANO funding programme supports small and medium-sized enterprises as well as start-ups and founders with patent projects. WIPANO provides financial resources, objective expertise and expert attorneys. The aim is to efficiently implement and secure innovative technologies and inventions.

    Small and medium-sized enterprises in the commercial sector and the independent natural science/technical professions that have not applied for a patent or utility model in the last three years prior to the application are eligible to apply. The funding rate is up to 50% of the eligible expenditure. A maximum of €16,600 in funding is available.

    If you would like to learn more about patents and WIPANO, click here.

    Our Networks