SpinLab, TU Dresden and TUDAG launch new high-tech accelerator in Dresden

SpinLab – The HHL Accelerator, in collaboration with TU Dresden and TU Dresden Aktiengesellschaft (TUDAG), is opening a new location in Dresden: ExciteLab. The new accelerator for high-tech startups is supported by leading companies from the industry and region, including VON ARDENNE GmbH, Infineon Technologies AG, MBG Sachsen, Zeiss Innovation Hub, Forvis Mazars, white Ip, and SAP.

Saxony's Minister of Economic Affairs Martin Dulig today, handed over a grant of almost €763,000, marking a pivotal step in strengthening the startup ecosystem in Saxony. Last year, the Saxon cabinet passed the “Accelerators Funding Guideline”, a unique offer to strengthen the start-up landscape in the Saxony. Around €30 million will be available for this until 2027.

Dresden as a leading European hub for hightech startups

The aim is to establish Dresden as a leading European hub for hightech startups and to strengthen the IP transfer and spin-off activities of TU Dresden. ExciteLab's program focuses on key technologies such as the Internet of Things, semiconductors, robotics, sensors, and quantum technology. Startup teams receive individual support and access to global companies and investors. 

The combination of innovative research and rapidly growing industry attracts international companies and startups from various sectors to Dresden. This is demonstrated by investments from Infineon, the new construction by technology company Jenoptik, and the planned major project of TSMC's new location.

Prof. Dr. Andreas Pinkwart, Director of TUD|excite: "With ExciteLab, a top-class accelerator is launching in Dresden. TU Dresden and Leipzig's SpinLab are already among the leading institutions of their kind in Europe and will strategically strengthen their potential in the field of hightech startups through this cooperation with TUDAG."

Udo Werner, Spokesman of the Board of TU Dresden Aktiengesellschaft (TUDAG): "As a long-standing spin-off partner of TUD, we are looking forward to intensified cooperation with TUD|excite! Our joint venture with the multiple award-winning SpinLab can and will develop into an excellent engine for technology transfer in Dresden."

Eric Weber, founder and CEO of SpinLab: "With ExciteLab at Europe's leading microelectronics location Dresden, we are expanding our thematic coverage to new, promising areas. Our regular placement as one of Europe's leading startup supporters shows that the approach of specialized programs at suitable locations is highly successful according to a proven principle."

SpinLab Managing Director Marcus Haberstroh adds: "With ExciteLab, we are creating another important building block in our state's innovation ecosystem, where Saxon method, process, and participation expertise unite at a previously unprecedented level in the hightech sector."

The six-month accelerator program will start for the first time in October. Applications are open from now until August 27, 2024.