- Applicants: PhD students at hessian.AI partner universities or those applying for a scholarship based on qualifications.
- Research-driven Ideas: The program focuses on AI ideas stemming from research, but other innovative ideas may be considered.
- Early-stage Support: The program is for early-stage ideas; startups already incorporated are not eligible.
- Residency: For scholarships, applicants must have permanent residency in Germany.
- Working Limitations: Applicants can work up to 5 hours per week alongside the funding.
Lean AI Startup Funding

The Lean AI Startup Funding (LAISF) is designed to help turn research-driven AI ideas into viable business models. It offers six months of funding, covering material expenses up to 30,000€, to help prototype and test AI-based ideas. The program aims to support early-stage AI startups by providing the necessary financial resources and time to develop a business model, raise investment readiness, and create prototypes. While primarily for research-based AI ideas, the program is open to other innovative ideas that align with its focus. Applicants must either be PhD students at hessian.AI partner universities or apply for a scholarship. The program also allows working part-time (up to 5 hours per week) alongside the funding. The funded teams must provide progress reports and project documentation, while residency within Germany is required for receiving the scholarship.
Eligibility
The eligibility criteria for the Lean AI Startup Funding are:
Pitch Deck: The Ultimate Guide for Startups
Benefits
The benefits of Lean AI Startup Funding are:
- Funding: Six months of financial support (30,000€) for prototyping and testing ideas.
- Time and Freedom: The program offers time and resources to validate your business model and prototype.
- Support for Research-driven Ideas: Focuses on helping research-based AI startups move to practical business applications.
- Flexible Working: Allows working part-time while receiving funding.
- Progress Reports: Applicants must provide presentations and written documentation of their progress.
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Theme | : Startup |
Applicant Country | : Germany |
For more information | : hessian.AI |