EXIST Women 2025: Celebrating Achievements and Opening the Path to 2026

The evening began with two consecutive formats that set the tone for a lively and inspiring event. First, many interested women attended the information session on the 2026 funding round. The consortium of the University of Stuttgart, University of Hohenheim, Esslingen University of Applied Sciences, Stuttgart Media University, Stuttgart University of Applied Sciences, Nürtingen-Geislingen University (HfWU), Reutlingen University and the University of Tübingen presented the application process, funding opportunities and the community behind the program, offering initial insights into the upcoming round.

Immediately afterwards, the closing event of the current cohort took place. Around 50 scholarship holders from all participating universities, along with supporters from the regional ecosystem, gathered at the Arena2036 to reflect on their shared year within EXIST Women.

Support programs from across the consortium – including the Female Accelerator at TRACES, the Finance Accelerator and TTI – presented their offerings and outlined future opportunities for the scholarship holders. The stage then belonged to the three finalists of the pitch competition: Alissa Beck, Lucie Sauter and Valentina Meyer-Steude. After compelling presentations, Valentina Meyer-Steude convinced the jury with her startup flinq and won the prize endowed with €1,000, co-working space and mentoring. Our thanks go especially to the Finance Accelerator for sponsoring the award.

A further highlight of the evening was the voice training session with Isabel Schmier, who provided practical guidance on confident communication in pitching and leadership situations.

The event concluded with the ceremonial presentation of certificates to all scholarship holders, followed by relaxed networking, food and conversation. The consortium thanks all participants, mentors and supporters and is already looking forward to launching the next round of EXIST Women.

Those interested in joining the next cohort can sign up for the waiting list to stay informed about the start of the application process.