Launchpad for sustainable solutions and GreenTech innovations 

Who can apply for the Cross-Industry Innovation Lab (CIIL)?

Our incubation program is industry-agnostic. We welcome early-stage startups with a tech-driven approach, a clear problem-solution hypothesis, and a meaningful sustainability or climate contribution to their industry. While we have a strong network in AgTech & Bioeconomy, startups from all sectors are encouraged to apply.

Our focus areas include, but are not limited to:

1. AgTech & Bioeconomy (our founding strength)
2. Energy & Sustainability
3. Industrial Tech & Logistics
4. HealthTech
5. All other tech-driven verticals welcome

Applications are open year-round.

We review on a rolling basis and reach out when there's a strong match. No batch deadlines, no waiting lists. (Separate open calls for specific programs or cohorts are announced separately.)

Our mission

CIIL empowers startups to turn sustainable technologies into practical, industry-ready solutions with tailored guidance and real-world market access.

We don’t just support product development. We put your innovation in the right environment, ensuring it addresses a real market need and stands out from the competition.

All Innovative Startups Are Welcome

CIIL is open to startups from all industries and all regions across Germany and internationally. Whether you're building in AgTech, energy, health, logistics, industrial tech, or any other sector: if your solution is tech-driven, sustainable and addresses a real market problem, you're welcome to apply. There is no location requirement to participate in the program.

Key Highlights of the program:

What we offer startups:

Eligible for up to €300,000 in grant funding?

Startups that are located in, or willing to develop their business in, Lower Saxony can access NBank grant funding on top of the program. The following criteria apply:

Together we can transform the industry for a more sustainable and circular economy. Your startup could be the change-maker.

Our partner: