
THE PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Expand to one of Europe’s economically strongest areas
Although entering a new market is exciting and it opens new possibilities, it is also a challenge. But expanding internationally is important and we are helping you to take this difficult step. The Up2B Market Discovery program was created especially for international startups that are planning to expand to the German market.
You are looking into expanding to the German market?
Then this 4 week + 3 days program is for you!
Our program is divided into two parts – Bootcamp & Masterclass:
Bootcamp:
During 4 weeks we guide you through four digital workshops (July 16, 21, 24, 30) with the aim to find out if expanding to the German market is the right next step for you. You will get an overall overview of the market and region, focusing on your internationalization strategy and sales operations. At the end of the four weeks you will have your potential customers identified and know how to reach out to them.
Masterclass:
The masterclass will allow you to spent 3 days in Heidelberg and Mannheim to get a good look at the region, so you can decide if it fits your plans for international expansion.
Located in the Rhein-Neckar region in southwest Germany, both cities are a hotspot for international corporates and offer a huge potential for startups with a B2B and industry-tech focus. International companies like SAP, BASF, Daimler and Bosch are all located in this area. In addition to that, the region is famous for it’s highly innovative „Mittelstand“ (German for SME’s) and is considered one of the main drivers of Europe’s largest economy.
We will welcome you in one of our startups centers and accompany you for the four days filled with input sessions from expert coaches and a corporate speed dating. And after all the work is done, get a good sip of tasty German beer with us. We will show you around so you can get to know the region, our culture and lifestyle. Decide for yourself – but we strongly believe this is a great place to live and to do business.
YOUR BENEFITS
What Up2B Market Discovery offers you

Meet potential clients

Join coaching & workshops with B2B experts

Get access to the German market
THE MODALITIES
One week Accelerator program to get access to the German B2B market
You should apply if...
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You are an international startup that already succeeded abroad and you are planning to expand to the German market
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Your startup is operation in the field of IT, digitalization, Industry 4.0, deep-tech
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Your business is B2B-focused
What to expect?
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Introduction to the German market, lifestyle and culture
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Workshops to sharpen your know-how about the German market and business etiquette
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Coaching with experts on legal topics (e.g. forms of incorporation, taxes, employment laws)
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Exploration of potential office spaces in one of our startup centers
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Corporate speed dating to get your first pilot projects and customers in Germany
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Free participation
Program period
Bootcamp: 4 weeks, 2 hours per week
from 16 - 30 July 2025 (July 16, 21, 24, 30)
Masterclass: 13 - 15 October 2025
Application deadline
The application deadline is on July 6th 2025
Program location
The bootcamp will take place online, the masterclass takes place on site. The first two days will take place in Mannheim (MAFINEX Technologiezentrum, Julius-Hatry-Str. 1, 68163 Mannheim), the third and fourth day (September 28th and 29th) will take place in Heidelberg (BDC, Carl-Friedrich-Gauß-Ring 5, 69124 Heidelberg).
Program costs
Since Up2B is funded by Startup BW and Baden-Württemberg Ministry of Economics, Labour and Tourism, the participation is free including food and beverages during the program on site. Please note though that we don’t cover any transport or accommodation costs.
Agenda
Bootcamp
16.07
Why Germany, Why Baden-Würrtemberg?
Industrial strength meets innovation – is this the right next step for your startup?
21.07
How to work with German B2B customers
What German business customers expect - and how to build trust and tactation
24.07
Finding your Place - market strategy & local positioning
Where and how your solution fits into the German market
30.07
How to speak to customers - pitching & outreach
How to approach and convince German industry customers
Masterclass
13.10
Arrival & Business Strategy
in Mannheim, MAFINEX
14.10
Sales
in Heidelberg, BDC
15.10
Networking
in Mannheim, MAFINEX
Your startup, your next step:
Apply now for the
Up2B Market Discovery Program!
MARKET DISCOVERY IMPRESSIONS
Get a feeling about the program
FAQ
Frequently asked about Up2B Market Discovery
TESTIMONIALS
What the participants say about Market Discovery
Get in touch!
Anna is your contact person for Up2B Market Discovery. If you have questions about the program, please don't hesitate to contact her. For further information, please also chceck our FAQs.
Apply now for the Up2B Market Discovery Program!