Breaking into the German Mittelstand: Innovation Needs & Dos and Don'ts for Start-ups
Oct 29, 2026 — 11:30 am - 12:15 PMInnoEnergy Booth

Description
Why this topic, why now?
Rising energy costs and competitive pressure are driving German Mittelstand companies to seek new technologies and ways to innovate. Start-ups have much to offer, but connecting the right solutions with real industrial needs is not always straightforward. Where are the opportunities, and what does it take for start-ups to succeed?
Who is on stage, and what will we discuss?
Gregor Weber (dena / SET Hub) will share findings from a recent study on the Mittelstand's energy-related innovation needs and introduce SET InnoTandems, a programme connecting companies with start-ups to address concrete challenges. Christos Klamouris (AXEL Accelerator / fokus.energie) will share practical Dos & Don'ts for start-ups, followed by an interactive Q&A.
Who is this for?
Start-up founders looking to work with established German industrial companies.
Mittelstand companies seeking new solutions and innovation partners.
Investors, accelerators and ecosystem partners supporting start-up–industry collaboration.




