international.founders Network

The international.founders Network offers specialised advice to international researchers to encourage them to explore the world of start-ups in the vibrant city of Münster. Headed by the Researchers & Staff department of the International Office (Welcome Centre) and in cooperation with the REACH - EUREGIO Start-up Center, the aim is to promote a seamless transition from academia to entrepreneurship. The project places particular emphasis on helping participants launch their own research-based start-ups.

  • Advice on residence permits

    The core aim of the international.founders Network is to build long-term prospectives for international researchers who wish to continue their career path in Münster. As a first step, the network can serve as an initial point of contact for information and advice on residence permits for future founders.

    Residence permit 'Quick Check'

    What type of residence permits are available and what are the formal requirements for each? Our 'Quick Check' helps prospective founders from non-EU countries determine which residence permit they need and how to obtain one for their self-employment.

     Take the residence permit 'Quick Check'

    EXIST - University-based business start-ups

    EXIST lays the groundwork for tech- and research-based start-ups. For international students and researchers from non-EU countries who are already EXIST scholarship holders, the international.founders Network offers information and advice on obtaining the necessary documents to apply for a new residence permit for business start-ups in Münster (§21.2b).

    Details on EXIST - University-based business start-ups

  • Building bridges - Münster's research and corporate landscape

    The international.founders Network is committed to creating a supportive network that enables international researchers to discover the potential of entrepreneurship in Münster. The aim is to create a network that not only supports the founding of innovative start-ups, but also enhances the entire research and corporate landscape in this dynamic city. In addition to the REACH - EUREGIO Start-up Center, the international.founders Network collaborates with university institutions and programmes that are also committed to promoting start-ups and entrepreneurship.

    The network cooperates with the following institutions:

    ⦁    Women in Research (WiRe) scholarship programme
    ⦁    Münster Centre for Emerging Researchers (CERes)
    ⦁    Careers Service of the University of Münster
    ⦁    Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK)
    ⦁    Office for Migration and Integration Affairs of the city of Münster
    ⦁    Global Certification and Consulting Centre (GCCC) for EXIST

    You are an organisation interested in joining the network? Please contact international.founders@uni-muenster.de for further information.

  • Tool box: Handbook & REACH Academy

    This section offers valuable resources, including links, materials, and a handbook on research-based entrepreneurship and beyond. Therefore, all necessary information on self-employment in Germany can be accessed in one toolbox. The primary objective of this initiative is to provide accessible information in English and foster connections between key stakeholders within the region.

    Handbook

    The first chapter of our handbook provides an overview of funding opportunities, offering guidance on how to secure financing for entrepreneurial venture. The next chapters cover the initial steps towards becoming an entrepreneur, essential legal requirements and relevant aspects of residence law to consider when establishing a business.

    Download Handbook section "First Steps into Self-Employment in Münster"
    Download Handbook section "Financing Your Own Business
    Download Handbook section "Visa and Residence Permit"

    REACH Academy

    Get a great introduction into various entrepreneurship related topics and tools. Take the online REACH Academy course, watch all their videos and take small tests to receive a certificate which enhances your entrepreneurship knowledge.

    Enroll to take the course (free offer)

Join the network

© REACH - Euregio Start-Up Center

Our newsletter provides members with start-up know-how and information regarding helpful contacts, networking opportunities and local perspectives in English. Stay up-to-date on upcoming regional events which are interesting to international researchers. Every now and then, we share inside knowledge and tips from inspiring REACH experts who can help future founders get started.

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Upcoming events

The international.founders Network promotes international networking. Tailored to the diverse needs of international researchers, including (post-)doctoral candidates, professors and scholarship holders, the international.founders Network provides a comprehensive overview of all relevant programmes, workshops and information material in Münster and the surrounding area. The network also regularly develops new formats which, for example, showcase international role models in entrepreneurship.