Start-up BW Pre-Seed Program Boosts 14 Innovative Startups in Baden-Württemberg with AI Focus

The Start-up BW Pre-Seed funding program has selected 14 innovative companies to receive financial support, marking a key step in fostering early-stage startups in Baden-Württemberg. Managed by the Ministry of Economic Affairs alongside L-Bank, the initiative offers funding packages typically comprising €160,000 from the program and an additional €160,000 from co-investors. In specific cases, total funding can reach up to €640,000. Eligible startups must be under five years old and demonstrate strong ties to the Baden-Württemberg region.

Dr. Nicole Hoffmeister-Kraut, the Minister of Economic Affairs, highlighted artificial intelligence as a leading innovation theme within the region. She noted that the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Baden-Württemberg is actively leveraging AI's potential to develop cutting-edge business ideas, signaling positive progress for the local economy. Edith Weymayr, CEO of L-Bank, emphasized the importance of early-stage support through repayable grants and mentorship to enable startups to transition towards readiness for institutional investment.

Following the selection, the chosen companies can submit further detailed funding applications to L-Bank, which will make the final decisions on financing. The program aims to help innovative startups—often too young to attract traditional investors—to scale successfully by bridging initial funding gaps and fostering growth. This comprehensive approach reflects Baden-Württemberg’s commitment to nurturing promising business ventures, especially in technology-driven sectors like AI.