01.10.2026

Call for Applications: GeneNovate® 2027

GeneNovate® is now accepting applications for its 2027 cohort - applications are open until November 13, 2026. The nationwide entrepreneurship programme supports researchers in the field of gene and cell therapies in exploring the innovation potential of their research and taking their first steps towards translation and spin-off creation.

GeneNovate® supports researchers and medical professionals in identifying the entrepreneurial potential of their work and developing their own startup ideas. While the programme focuses on gene and cell therapies, it is also open to innovations in other areas of biotechnology, diagnostics and bioinformatics. The programme welcomes participants at different stages of their entrepreneurial journey. Whether they are exploring entrepreneurship for the first time, considering a potential spin-off or already preparing to establish a startup, participants can develop the skills and knowledge needed to take their ideas further. Previous entrepreneurial experience is not required. 

Apply here

Running from December 2026 to June 2027, GeneNovate® combines six online theory sessions with six full-day, in-person workshops. Topics include business models, market analysis, intellectual property, financing, regulatory requirements and effective pitch presentations.

The programme places a strong emphasis on practical application. Participants work in teams to develop concrete solutions and refine their ideas with support from experienced mentors. They also benefit from exchanging knowledge and experiences with established startups, experts and fellow aspiring entrepreneurs.

Depending on the maturity of their ideas, teams can focus on different development stages – from assessing whether a scientific concept is ready for a spin-off to preparing for discussions with investors and business partners. The programme concludes with regional selection events and a nationwide Final Event in Heidelberg on 23 June 2027, where selected teams will present their projects to an investment committee.

GeneNovate® operates across ten regions in Germany. The Southwest region includes Freiburg and Tübingen, offering researchers and aspiring entrepreneurs in the local life sciences and biotechnology community an opportunity to develop their ideas and connect with a nationwide network of researchers, startups, experts and investors. Participation in the programme is free of charge. Applicants must have sufficient English-language skills (at least B2 level), commit to attending the mandatory programme sessions and workshops, and obtain approval from their academic or professional supervisor. Applicants should select the region in which they can attend all mandatory in-person activities and submit their application through the corresponding regional application form.
 

About the National Network Office for Gene and Cell Therapies / Network Office GCT Germany
The Network Office GCT Germany was established as part of the National Strategy for Gene- and Cell-
Based Therapies. Serving as a central platform, it supports the networking of research, industry,
patients and patient advocacy groups, as well as policymakers and society at large. Its mission is to
build a national GCT community—the GCT Germany Network—through independent, cross-site
information and coordination. The National Network Office brings together the expertise and
activities of all stakeholders and creates synergies to help ensure that patients can gain faster access
to these therapies. In addition, the Network Office operates platforms and initiatives such as the GCT
Atlas and the GeneNovate program, advancing technology transfer, knowledge exchange, and
stakeholder engagement in Germany—and within a broader European context.
For more information, visit the Network Office’s website: www.gct-germany.de

About the National Strategy for Gene- and Cell-Based Therapies (National Strategy GCT)
The National Strategy GCT was commissioned in 2022 by the former Federal Ministry of Education and
Research (BMBF, now the Federal Ministry for Research, Technology and Space, BMFTR) and developed
through a moderated process involving around 150 stakeholders. With the aim of advancing patient
welfare and strengthening Germany as a biotechnology hub, representatives from science, industry,
politics, and society defined eight fields of action comprising a total of 91 concrete measures. These
were submitted to the former BMBF in June 2024. The Berlin Institute of Health at Charité (BIH)
facilitated the development of the strategy document and currently holds the spokesperson role. In
this capacity, BIH coordinates the further refinement and implementation of the proposed measures.
More information: www.nationale-strategie-gct.de