alt: man in orange crew neck t-shirt sitting on black chair
title: responsible economy startups

Meta Description: Discover how the RESPOND accelerator program by BMW Foundation and UnternehmerTUM empowers responsible economy startups, fostering sustainable innovations for the future of work, urbanization, and responsible economy.

Introduction

In today’s rapidly evolving economic landscape, the need for responsible economy startups has never been more critical. These startups prioritize sustainability, social responsibility, and innovative solutions to address pressing global challenges. The RESPOND Accelerator Program, a collaborative initiative by the BMW Foundation Herbert Quandt and UnternehmerTUM, stands at the forefront of nurturing such ventures, driving positive change towards a sustainable future.

What is the RESPOND Accelerator Program?

The RESPOND accelerator is a five-month program designed to empower founders of sustainable startups. By aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for the 2030 Agenda, RESPOND seeks to inspire entrepreneurs who are committed to creating impactful solutions in the realms of work, urbanization, and economy.

Key Focus Areas

RESPOND concentrates on three primary sustainability domains:

1. The Future of Work

As the dynamics of labor shift, RESPOND supports startups that:
– Equip individuals with essential skills and tools for emerging work environments.
– Promote equal access to employment opportunities.
– Utilize technology to enhance working conditions and reduce precarious employment.

2. Sustainable Urbanization

Urban areas face multifaceted social and ecological challenges. RESPOND encourages solutions that:
– Foster intelligent and sustainable urban systems.
– Enhance citizen participation in urban development.
– Address issues such as resource management, transportation, and housing sustainability.

3. Responsible Economy

To mitigate the strain on planetary resources, RESPOND focuses on startups that:
– Advocate for responsible resource usage and sustainable production.
– Promote circular economy models.
– Develop technologies to reduce environmental risks and enhance economic sustainability.

Success Stories

The RESPOND accelerator has a proven track record of cultivating successful startups. Notable alumni include:

Hawa Dawa: Recognized as the “Digital Startup of the Year 2020” by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy, Hawa Dawa specializes in air quality management.
Made of Air: Awarded “Science Breakthrough of the Year” by the Falling Walls Foundation, this startup focuses on innovative air purification technologies.

These success stories highlight RESPOND’s commitment to fostering startups that deliver tangible environmental and societal benefits.

Application Process

Applications for the RESPOND accelerator are open annually, with submission periods typically spanning a month. For instance, in 2021, applications were accepted between January 18 and February 15, with the program commencing in June. Applicants are evaluated based on their potential to contribute to the defined sustainability areas and their readiness to scale their ventures.

Benefits for Startups

Participants of the RESPOND program receive comprehensive support, including:

Mentorship and Coaching: Access to over 36 coaches who provide more than 250 hours of training and development.
Networking Opportunities: Connections with 27 venture capitalists, 50 mentors, and 18 corporate partners, including prominent names like HV Capital and Earlybird Venture Capital.
Resources and Facilities: Free access to coworking spaces at the Munich Urban Colab, both on-site and digitally.
Demo Night: An opportunity to present their startups to an international audience of investors, industry leaders, and media representatives.

Building a Sustainable Ecosystem

RESPOND is part of a broader movement to create ecosystems like EcoSolve, a venture studio by Founders Factory that also emphasizes sustainability across various sectors. Such programs are instrumental in driving innovation towards ecological balance and social responsibility, ensuring that responsible economy startups have the necessary support to thrive and make a meaningful impact.

Conclusion

The RESPOND Accelerator Program exemplifies the vital role of structured support systems in fostering responsible economy startups. By providing essential resources, mentorship, and a robust network, RESPOND empowers entrepreneurs to develop sustainable solutions that address some of the world’s most pressing challenges. As the demand for sustainable businesses continues to rise, programs like RESPOND are indispensable in shaping a resilient and equitable future.

Ready to take your sustainable startup to the next level? Join the RESPOND Accelerator Program and become part of a community dedicated to transformative change.