The CyberLab Accelerator is designed to prepare startups for market entry by providing them with relevant contacts and resources to foster their growth. The program offers continuous support over several years, guiding startups through the various stages of building their company.
Program Overview
• Model: The program is conducted online, supplemented by two in-person sessions held in Karlsruhe.
• Frequency: Four batches are run annually, with one new batch starting each quarter.
• Language Requirement: A significant portion of the workshops are conducted in German; at least one team member should be able to understand and speak German at B1/B2 level to benefit fully.
• Cost: Participation is free of charge, made possible through funding from Start-up BW under the EU's General Block Exemption Regulation (GBER).
Target Audience and Eligibility
• Focus Areas: The program targets startups in the fields of IT, AI, IT security, and smart production.
• Applicant Profile: Applications are open to both solo founders and teams.
• Geographic Focus: Ideal candidates are based in Baden-Württemberg, are willing to relocate their business to the region, or have pilot projects with companies located there.
• Company Stage: Startups do not need to be formally established to apply. If the company has been founded, it must be no more than five years old, as per the commercial register.
Application Details and Key Dates for Q2 2026
• Application Deadline: The submission deadline for the next cohort is April 13, 2026.
• Required Documents: Applicants must submit a current pitch deck. A startup logo is optional but can be included.
• Application Process: All applications undergo a careful review. Shortlisted candidates will receive initial feedback shortly after the deadline and will be invited to an online assessment interview.
• Q2 2026 Schedule:
- Assessment Day: April 28
- Setup Phase Dates: May 13 (in-person in Karlsruhe), May 19, May 21, May 27, May 28
- Selection Day for Specialization: June 23 (in-person in Karlsruhe)
- Specialization Phase: The central phase begins in June/July 2026, followed by additional offerings.
Program Structure and Time Commitment
• Setup Phase: This initial phase equips participants with essential information and tools for IT startups. The expected time commitment is approximately 6-8 hours per appointment.
• Specialization Phase: Following the Selection Day, participants gain access to tailored offerings based on their growth stage, including in-depth modules, investor and mentor contacts, networking events, CEO & CTO circles, workshops, and keynote speeches.
• Ongoing Support: The accelerator has a continuous character. Alumni continue to benefit from the knowledge base, startup community, and network long after the initial program phases.
Key Benefits and Resources
• Mentorship: Participants are matched with mentors from a network of over 220 experienced founders, CEOs, and subject matter experts.
• Individualized Program: The support provided is tailored to the specific and current needs of each startup.
• Network Access: The program offers connections to various networks and organizations, including the de:hub for applied artificial intelligence, the AI Alliance, and the Karlsruhe IT Security Initiative (KA-IT-Si).
• Financial Opportunities: Through the CyberForum, startups gain access to Startup BW Pre-Seed funding and other financial opportunities.
• Equity-Free Model: CyberLab does not take any shares or equity in the participating startups.
• Infrastructure: Discounted access to coworking spaces and smart production areas is available through CyberForum.
• Partner Discounts: Participants benefit from exclusive discounts through partner programs with companies such as AWS, Google, and Sparkasse.
CyberForum Membership
• Core Benefits: As part of CyberForum e.V., CyberLab is embedded in a strong network. Membership offers advantages such as long-term mentoring, event discounts, increased visibility, and more.
• Post-Accelerator Support: Even after the program, members continue to benefit from discounted workspaces, regular mentoring, a wide range of events, support from marketing and talent departments, and free listings on the job board.
• Membership Details: Full details regarding CyberForum membership are provided during the assessment process before the program begins.
With its individualized, equity-free model and long-term commitment to founder success, the CyberLab Accelerator provides a comprehensive support system. The program leverages a robust network of mentors, industry partners, and funding opportunities to help IT-focused startups navigate their journey from concept to market leader.