If you have been following our blog, you have likely come across our earlier post about Berlin’s booming startup scene. Aiding its development are various accelerator programs that support startups through seed investment, networking, mentorship, education, and public pitch opportunities. Furthermore, there is an increasing number of co-working spaces that bring together like-minded entrepreneurs.
With so many programs tailored to startups, it may be hard to choose. So how does one find the right support and space to develop your startup? While the needs of every company are different, and therefore the choices that are most suitable for it, here are a few upcoming accelerator programs and trendy co-working space to consider for your startup.
Microsoft for Startups
Most people have likely heard of Microsoft, the sixth largest IT company in the world, but you may or may not have heard of their special program for startups, Microsoft for Startups. The program began in February 2018, when the corporation committed $500 million in financing for new companies over the next two years. Microsoft for Startups is internationally located in accelerators in Bangalore, Beijing, London, Seattle, Shanghai, Tel Aviv, and Berlin. The program is currently searching to recruit tech startups, which stand to benefit from sales and marketing training, investment ranging from Series A to Series D, and the community of entrepreneurs in the Microsoft Reactors coworking spaces located in the above-mentioned countries. Not only that, but Microsoft also grants startups in this four-month program a $500,000 credit to use the Microsoft Azure cloud services.
F-Lane Accelerator
In a previous blog post we talked about the lack of women in technology. Searching to minimize gender inequality, F-Lane is an accelerator program in Berlin focusing on women’s empowerment. F-Lane is a seven-week acceleration program that aims to foster an environment that encourages and supports women in technology. Powered by the Vodafone Institute for Society and Communications and in partnership with the Impact Hub Berlin and the Social Entrepreneurship Akademie, F-Lane is currently looking for five new participants for spring 2018.
Some upcoming events F-Lane is organizing are:
May 2- a demo day of F-Lane ventures
November 16 – the final pitch of F-Lane ventures.
Mindspace Co-working spaces
Co-working spaces are perfect for starting companies looking for a professional place to work at a low cost. They encourage collaboration, provide a sense of community, and allow for flexible work schedules.
Located in ten major startup cities, including Berlin, Mindspace could be the ideal spot for your startup. There are three locations within Berlin, each with a different creative vibe, though all three reflecting the hipster vibe of Mitte and Kreuzberg, where they are located. In addition to being cool places to work, the Mindspace coworking locations offer benefits like discounts. For coffee lovers and addicts, the spaces come equipped with a free coffee bar and a soda fountain.
In short, your startup should search for an accelerator program and space that meshes well with the culture of your company. As you search for the best programs for your company or team, bear in mind that AtomLeap is one of the leading hardware accelerators in Berlin. Our six-month program offers a series of perks, such as a monthly stipend for your team members, as well as tailored business development support and access to our network of investors and industry experts. So get in touch if you think that you would be a good fit for our program! Our next round starts in May, and there are still a few open spots.