Take part
This is how you join.
You do not need to apply just to ask a question, because the first step is a conversation.
What it costs
Taking part costs you nothing.
There is no contribution, no fee and no hidden costs, and that applies to every part of the programme. The project is funded by the European Social Fund Plus and the State of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern.
What you need to bring
You do not need a business idea, a qualification or perfect German.
There are only two conditions: your business must have its registered office in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, no matter where you live yourself, and your residence permit must allow self-employment. This is the case for most permits; what applies to your situation is explained on Residence and starting a business.
You do not need anything else: there is no minimum age, and you need neither a language certificate nor a qualification. We look together at the German you speak and find the way that works with it.
One note, so that there are no surprises later: to take part with us, a registered office in MV is enough. Some forms of funding, however, ask for more: the MV microloan (Mikrodarlehen MV), for example, requires both your place of residence and your place of business to be in the state. In the support finder each offer says who it is for.
When it starts
There is no application deadline and no cut-off date. You simply get in touch when it suits you, by phone, by message or through the contact form, and that is all the first step is.
To avoid any misunderstanding, there are two levels. Open to everyone are the first conversation, the Pre-School and the community, even without an idea and even if you are still wondering whether starting a business is for you at all. For admission to the incubator, we then look at your plans together, and that is where it becomes clear whether they will hold up.
The first Pre-School runs from 13 to 15 November 2026 at the Technologiezentrum Greifswald. It is the best way in, because afterwards you continue with a good foundation, but it is not a requirement, because you can join at any time.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to have an idea already?
No, “I don't know yet whether starting a business is for me” is an equally valid way in. Many people who run a business today started exactly there.
Does it cost money?
No, taking part is free of charge.
What language is it in?
The programme runs in German and English, and there is a page in plain German. In the team we also speak a little Español.
Can I do this alongside family and work?
The programme is designed to fit around family and work: in person, online and hybrid.
In practice this means: almost everything is hybrid, so you can usually join online as well. Only the Pre-School takes place on site, and most sessions are at the weekend. We do not offer childcare. If that is the sticking point for you, tell us early on, and we will look for a solution together.
Am I allowed to start a business with my residence permit?
With many residence permits yes, and what applies in general is explained on a page of its own, together with the sections of law it is based on. For your own case, we will give you the name of an advice service, for example at Flüchtlingsrat MV.
Do I have to live in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern?
No, only your business has to have its registered office in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, not you. If you live in Hamburg or Berlin and want to start a business here, you are in the right place. But if your papers say where you have to live, that still applies, even if you start a business.
