Welcome to the International Startup Office!
Note on the project status
The International Startup Campus (ISC) was an EXIST-funded joint project of Leipzig University, Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena and Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg. Many of its international startup services are now being continued on a permanent basis through the International Startup Offices (ISO) at the three universities.
Who We Are
The International Startup Office (ISO) is a joint initiative of Leipzig University, Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena and Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg. It was developed within the International Startup Campus (ISC) project funded by the German EXIST programme and is now continued as a permanent part of the startup services at the three universities. We support international students, graduates and researchers in transforming their ideas into successful startups and in integrating into Central Germany’s startup ecosystem.
Additionally, we provide assistance to foreign young firms and Startups in exploring and settling in the German market.
Services We Offer
We provide a range of services, comprehensive resources, tailored support, and valuable connections to enable your entrepreneurial journey.
We believe that language should never be a barrier to entrepreneurial success. By offering all our services in English, we ensure that you feel welcome and supported to implement your business ideas and thrive in the Central Germany's startup ecosystem.
TRAINING
We regularly offer workshops and seminars on various topics essential for startup success such as: visa and legal aspects, business idea development, business plan writing, marketing strategies, intellectual property rights, pitching, and more - tailormade to the need of international founders.
COACHING
Our dedicated coaches provide personalized guidance throughout your Startup journey. Through one-on-one sessions we assist you in every aspect, including identifying funding opportunities and preparing proposals, such as the highly sought-after EXIST grant.
CO-FOUNDER MATCH
If you have a business idea in mind but are seeking a co-founder to complement your team, we've got you covered. Our exclusive co-founder matchmaking service connects you with talented individuals from diverse academic and professional backgrounds.
COMMUNITY PLATFORM
We favour your connection with local players from the startup ecosystem in Central Germany. Through monthly meetups, international students and researchers have the opportunity to meet companies and established startups led by international founders. They present their founding and growth history and, in some cases, bring the topic of intrapreneurship closer to them through jointly designed challenges/competitions.
Can't be on site? Then connect with your new startup community online, anytime through our platform Talque.
BORN GLOBAL STARTUP FESTIVAL
Annual gathering for aspiring entrepreneurs and researchers who aim to kickstart their business in Germany. This festival encompasses engaging talks with international founders, workshops and serves as a vibrant hub for knowledge-sharing and networking with like-minded individuals. Here we embrace and celebrate the international community in Central Germany.
INTERNATIONAL INNOVATORS AWARD
An annual program supporting innovative Vietnamese startups and SMEs in exploring business opportunities and building connections in the German market.
FOREIGN STARTUP SETTLEMENT
We support foreign young firms and Startup teams in creating a legal entity in Germany. Our comprehensive support includes assisting with identifying potential clients, finding the perfect location, and connecting you with legal experts for advice.
Find Us In Our Region
The International Startup Offices at Leipzig, Jena and Halle are now your primary local contact points for services originally developed within the ISC project. Please contact the International Startup Office (ISO) at your home university first.
ISO Leipzig
SMILE – Die gründungsinitiative, University of Leipzig
smile.uni-leipzig.de/international-startup-office/ | Write an email
ISO Jena
Servicezentrum Forschung & Transfer, University of Jena
International Startup Office (uni-jena.de) | Write an email
ISO Halle
Transfer- und Gründerservice, University of Halle-Wittenberg
transfer.uni-halle.de/ | Write an email
ISO Team members in your region
