Aspiring Female Founders: Apply Now for an exist Women Scholarship!

November 7, 2025
published by hei_INNOVATION

The exist Women support program offers aspiring female entrepreneurs the opportunity to take their first steps toward self-employment. Up to ten participants benefit from practical workshops, individual coaching, mentoring, an exclusive network, and a three-month scholarship of up to €9,000 to provide financial support for their start-up ideas. Starting in March 2026, scholarship recipients from various disciplines will receive support for ten months — applications are open until January 25, 2026.

The funding program of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection (BMWK) is coordinated and implemented at Heidelberg University by hei_INNOVATION. It is aimed at female graduates, scientists, and students who have completed at least half of their studies, as well as women who have completed vocational training and are affiliated with Heidelberg University. A concrete start-up idea is not required – motivation, creativity, and innovation potential are what count.

Participants receive workshops on topics relevant to starting a business, such as personal development, idea generation, business model development, and networking, as well as access to events such as the Female Founders Brunch. The program offers an optional three-month scholarship of between €1,000 and €3,000 per month, depending on qualifications, as well as a one-time grant of €2,000 for material resources. Participants also benefit from mentoring, a strong network, and a workspace in the co-working space at the hei_INNOVATION Startup Hub.