Too much brilliant research never leaves the lab. Not because it lacks quality, but because the path from research to entrepreneurship feels unclear, risky, or simply out of reach.

The From Lab to Market Challenge (FLTMC) is changing that. Organized by chemstars together with greenCHEM, koala, TUM Venture Lab ChemSPACE, Forum Rathenau e.V., and other regional partners, this free, in-person idea competition connects scientists in chemistry, industrial biotech, material science, and related fields with the support they need to turn their research into real companies.

What's in it for you?

Participants get access to top-tier industry mentors, business model workshops, professional pitch training, regional semi-finals across Germany, and a shot at the Grand Award Event in North Rhine-Westphalia — where €10,000 in prizes are up for grabs, alongside the chance to get featured in CHEManager and connect with investors, corporates, and fellow founders.

The track record speaks for itself: past participants have raised over €24 million in funding and built 21 active startup projects.

For migrant researchers, this is especially relevant.

If you're a scientist navigating an unfamiliar ecosystem, building credibility in a new market, or figuring out how German commercialization pathways work — this program was made for people like you. We at Startup Migrants are proud to support the FLTMC, and we're here to help migrant researchers through the process. Reach out to Osman Sajid at osman@startupmigrants.com for guidance and support navigating the application and the ecosystem.

The deadline to submit your idea is 30 March 2026.

All you need is a four-page summary of your business idea — a template is provided. Students, PhD students, postdocs, and alumni from German universities and research institutions are all eligible.

Proudly organized by Chemstars, Forum Rathenau, greenCHEM, Koala and TUM Venture Labs: CHEMSPACE