The ZfE as a Partner of the German Centers for Research and Innovation (DWIH)
The University of Rostock is a partner of the German Centers for Research and Innovation (DWIH). The Center for Entrepreneurship (ZfE) serves as the central point of contact at the university: We connect research-based startup teams, spin-offs, and sciencepreneurs with the DWIH’s international innovation programs and support them as they enter new markets.
Indien: Innovators Connect Tandem 2026
As part of the DWIH New Delhi’s Innovators Connect Tandem 2026 program, researchers, founders, and members of startup teams from Germany spend two weeks in India working together with an Indian tandem partner on a promising startup idea. The 2026 edition will take place at leading deep-tech incubators in Bengaluru and Bhubaneswar.
In addition to the tandem collaboration, participants can expect a packed program featuring design thinking workshops, mentoring, pitch training, intercultural training, and networking with researchers, industry representatives, and founders, complemented by visits to startups and innovation labs.
At the end, all teams will present the idea they developed together to a jury. The winning teams will have the opportunity to reunite in Germany in 2027 with funding to continue their work. A total of 30 people will participate—15 from India and 15 from Germany. The University of Rostock has been a partner of the program for many years.
At a Glance
- Dates: November 16–27, 2026
- Locations: Bengaluru and Bhubaneswar, India
- Target Group: Doctoral candidates and postdocs (whose doctoral degree was awarded no more than four years ago) with a “lab-to-market” idea, as well as members of early-stage startup teams (founded no more than two years ago), affiliated with a German university, university of applied sciences, or research institution
- Costs: Travel, accommodation, and program costs for selected participants from Germany will be covered by DWIH New Delhi and its partners
- Application deadline: August 30, 2026
The call for applications, application form, and all further information can be found in the DWIH New Delhi call for applications.
What are the DWIHs?
The German Centers for Research and Innovation (DWIH) are a global network that raises the international profile of Germany’s research and innovation landscape. At key locations, including Tokyo and New Delhi, the DWIH connect German universities, research institutions, and startups with local universities, research institutes, companies, and investors. They are supported by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), among others, and funded by the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology, and Space.
For researchers interested in starting a business, the DWIHs offer specific programs designed to help them gain first-hand experience with international innovation ecosystems, establish collaborations, and assess the international market potential of their own technology.
Our Role: Your Point of Contact at the University of Rostock
As a DWIH partner, the ZfE is your first point of contact at the University of Rostock. We provide information on current calls for proposals, assist with the application process, and put you in touch with the DWIH locations.
If you have any questions about the programs, your team’s eligibility, or the application process, please feel free to contact us directly at: wieland.muelleruni-rostockde
Do I have to have already founded a company?
No. The programs are designed for the early stages. Some are specifically aimed at the period before or around the time of founding, while others are geared toward doctoral students and postdocs with a “lab-to-market” idea, as well as startup teams that were founded only recently. The exact requirements are listed at the top of each program description.
What do I need to apply?
That varies depending on the program. Generally, you’ll need to provide information about your team and project, as well as a current pitch deck in PDF format. In some cases, you’ll also need to designate a person to represent the project during the selection phase and on-site. Applications are usually submitted via an online form and take about 15 to 20 minutes to complete. The exact process is outlined at the top of each program’s page.
Who should I contact if I have questions?
Contact the Center for Entrepreneurship. Just send an email to wieland.muelleruni-rostockde.