€10,000 in Prize Money: Applications Open for Accelerator RISING 2026

From AI Startup to AI Scale-up: Applications for the fourth batch of Accelerator RISING are now open. Five advanced AI startups from Germany will receive €10,000 in prize money each and targeted support for scaling sales and expanding internationally. Applications are open until 13 September 2026.

Accelerator RISING is the four-month program by hessian.AI | AI Startup Rising for advanced AI startups based in Germany that develop their own AI models and are ready for their next stage of growth. From October 2026 to January 2027, five selected teams will receive targeted support to scale their sales and expand internationally.

The program combines two focused workshops on sales and investment with ongoing coaching and access to experienced mentors, investors and corporate partners. Participating startups can also benefit from hessian.AI’s high-performance AI infrastructure in Darmstadt and receive support with public relations.

Each selected team receives €10,000 in prize money, which can be used freely to support the startup’s next steps.

From Germany to Helsinki

A centerpiece of RISING 2026 is the cohort trip to Slush in Helsinki on 18 and 19 November. All five RISING teams receive a free ticket to the international startup event, which brings together founders, investors and companies from around the world.

Ahead of Slush, the teams will prepare for the event with a dedicated session focusing on their individual goals, pitches, investor and corporate meetings, and making the most of Slush Week. After the event, the program will support the teams in following up on new contacts and potential investor opportunities.

Application deadline: 13 September 2026, 11:59 pm CEST
Program duration: October 2026 – January 2027