International
Founders Award 2026

From Migration to Innovation

June 17.

Saxony

Apply

June 18.

Hamburg

Apply

June 23.

Hessen

June 24.

Open Germany

Apply

Together- We Grow

It's already hard to build a company from the ground up. But the difficulties of someone coming to a foreign country without knowing the culture and language are by far more challenging. We will honor the founders who, despite all this, have the motivation and persistence to set up their company in Germany. And then support them with a broad network, mentors and visibility.

We are looking for migrant entrepreneurs in Germany that are committed to make a positive impact. Whether you are starting your startup journey or already have an established company, this is the right place for you to get support and visibility.

“The ecosystem here has great support opportunities for expat founders - you just need to network with other international founders living in Germany and it starts to come together!” -

William Harris / International Founder based in Berlin

Who can apply

At least one founder is an international founder

First generation migrants that were born abroad and have their own immigration experience.

The head office of your start-up is located in Germany.

Your start-up was founded in Germany or Your start-up is planned to be established in Germany.

The start-up has not been founded before 2021.

As a start-up is a young company, it should not be older than 5 years.

The international founder must hold at least 20% equity in the startup to be considered a founder. In addition, please be aware that if selected, you should be able to participate in the online bootcamp in June and be responsible for covering your own travel, accommodation, and food costs, if applicable, for the Local Final in your selected region and for the Summit in Frankfurt.

Application Phase

Apply online to one of our Local Finals or the Open Track if you’re outside the partner regions.

Bootcamp

Selected startups join an online bootcamp with experts to refine their pitch and business.

Local Finals

Six startups per region pitch live in front of the local ecosystem. Two winners qualify for the Summit.

International Founders Summit

Regional winners meet in Frankfurt for workshops, networking, and the Grand Finale.

Process

Moments from IFA

Since 2023, the International Founders Award has brought together international founders, investors, corporates, and ecosystem leaders from across Germany. From inspiring pitches and powerful keynotes to meaningful connections and celebrations of diversity — our past editions show the energy, impact, and community behind the IFA.

Ambassadors

“Innovation is global, geostrategically important and creates progress, prosperity and jobs. International challenges need international solutions. That is why I support IFA with the initiative to promote and support international founders in Germany.”

Friedhelm A. Schmitt, Co-CEO Fincite GmbH