Scale in Europe. Access Real Markets. Join the Top AI Network.

 

AI Launchpad is designed for AI founders grounded in cutting-edge research and ready to scale. We unite the continent’s top AI hubs through one coordinated platform — powered by Rise Europe and backed by ELIAS — giving you unparalleled access to local markets, networks, and support across Europe’s strongest startup ecosystems.

AI Launchpad 2.0 offers invite-only, curated access to Europe’s most dynamic AI hubs.

Forget the one-size-fits-all accelerator. Join a seasonal, curated, cross-border journey where your AI startup gets what it truly needs: markets, expertise, credibility, and impact.

Centralised Application Process

Say goodbye to the hassle of applying to multiple incubators. With AI Launchpad, you can apply through our central portal and gain access to a network of premier AI startup ecosystems.

A Network of AI Experts and Entrepreneurs

Leverage a pan-European network of AI experts and entrepreneurs. Access centralised learning from ten hubs, bridging the gap between science and entrepreneurship

Immersion and Expansion

Participate in either the Spring or Fall season by joining a curated 1–2 week visit to a leading European AI hub. The program is tailored to your market goals and maturity, connecting you with investors, corporate partners, and key ecosystem leaders. To maximise impact, you’ll also take part in targeted sessions before and after your visit.

Batch #2

Are you elegible?

Teams of 2-4 entrepreneurial students/researchers.

Completing higher education at a European University.

Aiming to develop AI technologies into marketable products/services.

Goal: Launch a VC-fundable start-up with European/global impact.

Our Programme

Visiting Hub Program

The two-week immersive program designed specifically for AI startups looking to navigate and strategize their entry into the European market. This initiative offers participants a deep dive into the unique challenges and opportunities of the European landscape, facilitating tailored growth and expansion strategies

Market Exploration
Network Building

Understand Market Dynamics

Analyse the current trends and economic conditions in the German and broader European markets.

Engage with Thought Leaders

Participate in discussions with leading thinkers in the AI and tech industries.

Identify Sector Opportunities

Pinpoint sectors with high growth potential and demand for your AI solutions.

Form Strategic Alliances

Explore opportunities for forming alliances with established businesses that can offer complementary strengths.

Assess Competitive Landscape

Evaluate local competition to strategize positioning of your AI startup.

Cultivate Relationships with Local Entrepreneurs

Forge connections with local startups and entrepreneurs for cross-cultural insights and collaboration.

Recognise Regulatory Challenges

Learn about specific regulatory requirements and hurdles in Europe that could impact market entry.

Initiate Investor Dialogues

Meet potential investors to discuss funding possibilities and gain financial insights.

 

The local accelerators

Participants can apply to one of our 10 local hubs to be part of a 1-2 week visiting hub program, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in a vibrant ecosystem. This period is crucial for deep engagement with the community and iterative refinement of innovative projects.

Choose between one of ten local accelerator hubs, each offering a unique and tailored programme for your start-up:

INiTS | Vienna, Austria
DTU Skylab | Lyngby, Denmark
Campus Founders | Heilbronn, Germany
ETH AI Center & Talent Kick | Zurich, Switzerland
KTH Innovation | Stockholm, Sweden
XPLORE Venture Creator | Munich, Germany
HPI | Potsdam, Germany
CVC | Barcelona, Spain
Yes!Delft | Delft, Netherlands
Cyber Valley | Tübingen, Germany

How does it work?

Nomination

Startups are referred by local facilitators. No open calls, just quality.

Onboarding

Join 2–3 online workshops to align goals, prepare assets, and connect early.

Immersion

Spend 2 weeks in a new European hub, engage in curated meetings, events, and VC introductions.

What to Submit

  1. Your Startup Overview — Share a clear and compelling pitch deck or one-pager that highlights your vision, product, and market opportunity.
  2. Team Introduction Video (1 minute) — Introduce the people behind the startup. Keep it simple, genuine, and authentic. Record your video, upload it to Loom or YouTube, and include the link in your application.
  3. Nomination Form — Once you have your materials ready, complete the application form and submit your nomination.

Deadline: August 31, 2025 at 23:59 CET

We can’t wait to discover your story — and learn how your AI venture is shaping the future.

More info under: www.ai-launchpad.eu | For enquiries regarding nominations, programmes, or collaborations, please contact: