Saxony International
Founders Award

June 17.

Dresden

Together- We Grow

Together with futureSAX, we are bringing the International Founders Award to Saxony — one of Germany’s most dynamic innovation regions.

Saxony is home to a thriving ecosystem of startups, science institutions, investors, and industry partners.

As the central innovation platform of the Free State, futureSAX connects founders with the right networks and supports innovation across sectors, making Saxony a key hub for growth and transformation.

At the Saxony International Founders Award, international founders from across the region will have the opportunity to pitch their startups live, gain visibility, and connect with the local ecosystem

We are looking for migrant entrepreneurs in Saxony 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.

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 Saxony

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

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 will pitch at the Saxon Innovation Summit in front of the entire Saxon innovation ecosystem. Two winners qualify for the Summit.

International Founders Summit

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

Process

Local Final

Six selected startups will get the unique opportunity to pitch their innovations on stage during the Saxon Innovations Summit 2026 on June 17. This is where the entire Saxon innovation ecosystem comes together in one place - alongside more than 1,500 innovation enthusiasts. The finalists will present in front of the full ecosystem and gain direct access to valuable connections, visibility, and new opportunities throughout the summit.

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

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