Based in Berlin, DB mindbox connects start-ups with Deutsche Bahn and offers a unique opportunity to test and accelerate ideas and products “inside DB” using real data in a real-world environment.
The hub’s latest call is looking for innovative approaches to sustainability, ranging from sustainable materials to circular design and energy saving initiatives. “We are open to all technologies that help Deutsche Bahn to become an even greener company,” the firm noted.
In the area of energy saving initiatives, DB added, “With a rail network of over 38,000km and more than 5,000 stations, German railways have extremely high energy consumption. In recent years, Deutsche Bahn has increasingly focused on the area of energy efficiency, developing innovative solutions to exploit its potential. Nevertheless, we see potential to improve ourselves even further in this area. To this end, we are looking for innovative startup solutions from the energy sector.”
Applications are open now and will close on July 30, 2023. The selected teams will be announced in August, and the 100-day proof-of-concept program will begin in October, and results presented in February 2024.
The selected companies will receive a grant of €25,000, access to DB’s co-working space in Berlin, and support from coaching and mentoring experts. The program also offers the opportunity for long-term cooperation with DB.
To date, more than 3,500 start-ups from more than 50 countries have applied for the DB mindbox funding programs. More than 190 start-ups have already taken part. DB continues to work with around 60% of the companies as part of follow-up partnerships to concretely improve rail operations.
To find out more about DB mindbox and how to apply for the green call, click here.