Europe’s deep tech startups are about to get a major lift with the launch of Ignite Next, a new scale-up program based in Dresden, Germany.
Designed to accelerate breakthrough technologies, the program aims to connect Europe’s most promising innovators with the resources, expertise, and networks they need to grow globally.
Born from Intel Ignite, Now Independent
Ignite Next is the brainchild of the team behind the Intel Ignite program but now operates independently.
By partnering with industry giants like Infineon and Intel, the program provides startups with not just funding but access to cutting-edge technology, infrastructure, and guidance.
Both companies, along with future corporate and institutional partners, offer technical mentorship, strategic insights, and commercial support to ensure founders can scale their IP-heavy ventures successfully.
Leadership and Focus
The program is led by Markus Bohl, CEO and co-founder, and Alois Eder, CTO and co-founder, who bring hands-on experience in nurturing frontier technologies.
Ignite Next is specifically designed for startups working on innovations in semiconductors, photonics, advanced manufacturing, robotics, AI, and quantum computing.
Its non-dilutive approach allows the team to collaborate across multiple partners and sectors, providing tailored support from Pre-Seed to Series B funding stages.
Mentorship and Guidance
Startups joining Ignite Next gain access to a network of over 300 senior industry mentors, who provide direct technical guidance, market insights, and investor readiness support.
This mentorship helps founders tackle real-world challenges while refining their products and strategies for commercial success.
Proven Track Record
Ignite Next builds on a successful alumni network from the original Ignite model, including companies like Black Semiconductor, Proxima Fusion, Corintis, Quantum Diamonds, Cerabyte, and Space Forge.
These ventures demonstrate Europe’s growing strength in frontier technology and the program’s ability to nurture globally competitive startups.
Why Dresden?
Although Ignite Next spans Europe, it has chosen Dresden, the heart of Silicon Saxony, as its headquarters.
The region is a powerhouse in semiconductor production, home to one-third of Europe’s chip manufacturing, and hosts TU Dresden, the German university with the highest number of patents.
This location offers startups unparalleled opportunities to collaborate with both investors and industrial partners within one of Europe’s fastest-growing technology ecosystems.
Program Structure and Benefits
Each cohort runs for three months, combining deep technical mentorship with commercial validation and investor engagement.
Startups receive support to accelerate product-market fit, go-to-market readiness, and Series A/B funding, ensuring they scale faster and more efficiently.
Looking Ahead
With Ignite Next now officially launched, the program is poised to become a key driver of Europe’s deep tech revolution, connecting talented founders with the expertise and resources they need to turn visionary ideas into real-world solutions.
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