Application
Startup Program

Seedhouse
incubator

  • With our up to 18-month incubator program, we support high-tech startups with innovative solutions in the fields of agriculture, food industry, and artificial intelligence by providing individual mentoring and access to our network.

    The application period for Batch 2 runs from September 1 to September 30, 2025. If you have any questions regarding the application, please check our FAQs or reach out directly to Tim.

    If your application successfully passes the pre-selection stage, we will invite you to the Pitch Day on October 23, 2025. If you convince us there, the Incubator program will start on January 1, 2026.

Program
Highlights

  • - Tailored support from our startup advisors
  • - No obligations – you decide the focus of your work

  • - Access to 36 (medium-sized) shareholder companies and additional partners

  • - Exclusive workshop offerings on all relevant technology and startup topics

  • - Access to the Seedhouse infrastructure (Co-working & workshop facilities)

  • - Expert and mentor feedback on specific challenges

  • - Support with financing and acquiring third-party funding

  • - Opportunity for HTI funding through NBank of up to €300,000

Frequently asked questions
What you should know

What is the HTI programme?

What is the HTI programme?

With the HTI funding, the state of Lower Saxony supports six incubator operators that assist startups across various industry sectors. Founders have the opportunity to be accepted into one of the HTI programs and can additionally benefit from a complementary funding program that provides financial support.

 

The Seedhouse Incubator combines Lower Saxony’s strengths in the agricultural and food industries with pioneering technologies such as AI. It targets technology-oriented startups working on innovative foundational technologies that, due to their complexity, require longer development cycles.

Do I get financial support?

Do I get financial support?

The requirement is acceptance into our Seedhouse Incubator. Startups can then additionally apply for financial support from NBank — either €180,000 under the RIS3 program or €300,000 under the STEP regulation.

How can I apply for the HTI?

How can I apply for the HTI?

Simply fill out our application form and upload your pitch deck. If the jury selects you among the top 10, you will receive an invitation to our Pitch Day.

Do I need to have already founded my company to join the program?

Do I need to have already founded my company to join the program?

At the time of application, you do not need to have established your company yet. However, your company should be founded by the time you join the Seedhouse Incubator at the latest. Additionally, to receive financial support from NBank, you must provide proof of a registered office in Lower Saxony.

Where does the programme take place?

Where does the programme take place?

The Seedhouse Incubator is based in Osnabrück. However, many formats and content are offered remotely, so you don’t necessarily need to be on site. If you are nearby, you are of course welcome to use our coworking facilities. In general, it’s up to you to decide from where you want to work.

What is expected of us?

What is expected of us?

There’s one thing we expect from you above all: commitment and passion for your startup! With us, you can truly bring your idea to life. Of course, you should also take part in workshops or 1:1 sessions — but only in the areas that are genuinely relevant to you and your startup.

Are there any costs associated with participation?

Are there any costs associated with participation?

No, the Seedhouse program is free of charge! We provide you with coaching, mentoring, and consulting services. We can also support you with hardware. Our support services are only de minimis relevant, so you should have a de minimis budget available. Our services are also only subject to sales tax. However, you can reclaim the sales tax from your tax office, so there are no costs for you.

Your Journey
WHAT AWAITS YOU

Step 01
Your Idea

Different tire grades possible

Step 02
First contact

Initial consultation & information in various formats

Step 03
Application

Submission of the written application

Step 04
Coarse filter

Preselection by shareholders and Seedhouse team

Step 05
Pitchday

Get to know the best 10 teams in person

Step 06
BATCH-Selection

The aim is to include 5 to 6 teams in the new BATCH

Step 07
Start

The new BATCH starts on January 1 and July 1

Step 08
Kick-off-Day

Individual kick-off for each team as a tailor-made suit

Step 09
We get started

The support includes joint workshops, expert days, events, etc.

Step 10
Take off

After the end of the program, the contact does not break off.

You remain part of our alumni network.