CleanTech Innovation Center: A network and place to work for startups

The Innovation Center is operated by the Gewerbesiedlungsgesellschaft (GSG) in collaboration with Wirtschaftsförderung Marzahn-Hellersdorf. The Center is aimed at startups with business models that are based on environmentally friendly technologies and products, e.g. in the areas of electric mobility, smart city or biotechnology. If a startup is accepted into the community will only be decided following a meeting with the startup, the <link http://cleantech-innovationcenter.de/>CleanTech Innovation Center</link> tells us. After all, “clean tech” is a hybrid concept.

The CIC places special emphasis on startups that are already receiving support through an accelerator, incubator or the <link http://www.exist.de/>EXIST support programme</link>. Experience has shown that many of these startups still have to finish building their prototype. Teams with experienced engineers are especially welcome to apply.

Prices for a work place in the shared office totalling 280 square meters range from 99 to 129 euros per month. Access to the workshop with a total area of 330 square meters is included in the price. On top of that, startups receive free support from mentors when it comes to subject-specific questions concerning marketing, sales or financing. For some months now, areas in the neighbouring <link http://cleantechpark.de/>CleanTech Business Park</link> have been on sale which is seen as an excellent opportunity to collaborate with the companies based there, e.g. as part of joint clean tech events. 

Startup trip to New York City

In order to facilitate access to the US market for startups, the CleanTech Innovation Center has entered into a partnership with the German American Chamber of Commerce New York (GACCNY) and the Polytechnic School of Engineering (NYU). As part of these efforts, the CIC is organising a “<link https://www.f6s.com/startuptripnewyorkcity/apply>Startup Trip to New York City</link>” from 2 to 4 November 2016. Startups working in the areas of clean technologies, e.g. smart grid, sustainable water management, renewable energies or circular economy, can apply until 31 August. Participating startups will gain an insight ino the US clean tech industry and, in addition, will be able to present their products and establish contacts with potential investors. Participation is free of charge. Costs for travel and accommodation have to be covered by the teams.

In order to apply for the trip to New York, startups can also submit their company profile and a short presentation at: <link innovation@cleantechpark.de>innovation@cleantechpark.de</link>.

Companies and organisations wishing to become partners in the CIC network can send an email to Andrea Hötzeldt at: <link andrea.hoetzeldt@cleantechpark.de>andrea.hoetzeldt@cleantechpark.de</link>