Founding a business means taking on responsibility, forging new paths, and developing a viable company from an idea. It is precisely this entrepreneurial courage that distinguishes MUT – The NRW Founding Prize 2026 out.

In the centres of TechnologieZentrumDortmund Solutions for the future are created daily. From digital business models, life sciences and production technology to logistics, IT and sustainable applications. Many of these start-ups and young companies are working on issues that can change markets. For this to lead to growth, in addition to infrastructure and network, recognition, reach and access to new contacts are also needed.

That which is from the NRW.BANK The aligned founding prize creates exactly this stage. For the 15th time, the MUT Founding Prize will be awarded to founders, business successors, and freelancers from North Rhine-Westphalia who are economically successful with creative, sustainable, or innovative business ideas.

For the first time, the award will be presented in three categories:

🌱 Sustainable & Regional
🤝 Social Impact & Care
💡 Innovation & Future

What categories are there €20,000 prize money to win. In addition to the prize money, MUT also offers visibility, media presence, and valuable contacts for further company development.

Companies from the crafts, industrial, and service sectors can apply, provided they are between 2021 and 2024 founded with headquarters in NRW and have built a viable business model.

📅 Application deadline: 2 August 2026
👉 Information & Application nrwbank.de/founding_prize