Phase 124/7
Our Program
Beyond acceleration.
Three phases
One continuous cycle, running all year round
Scouting and matchmaking happens 24/7, piloting is an ongoing process, and twice a year EXPO Day puts the results on stage.
Phase 2ongoing process
Piloting
Phase 3twice a year
Expo Day
What you get
Connect, realize and gain exposure
The three pillars every collaboration on the platform is built on.
Connect
On our platform, startups gain access to industry-leading corporates and are connected directly to the relevant contacts and key decision makers. There is no being redirected or lost between hierarchies and failed leads. STARTUP AUTOBAHN is the interface that enables young companies to collaborate with the key industry players with the aim of bringing innovation to life.
Realize
We have moved beyond acceleration. STARTUP AUTOBAHN is all about evaluating and driving technology in a real-world environment. Together with our established partners, we have set a clear goal – developing successful production-ready implementations or long-term investments with startups.
Exposure
With a strong and expansive network, we are a community of decision-makers, innovators, entrepreneurs, politicians, and investors from around the world. To add a level of exposure, project teams have the chance to showcase their work at one of Europe’s largest demo days: EXPO.
How it works
From first meeting to series application
- 01
Connecting with Startups
We are always on the search for startups working on the future of mobility, production, enterprise, and beyond. The most interesting and relevant of the bunch will be invited to tech-themed 1:1 meetings, our so-called “Deep Dives” hosted by our corporate partners. Based on these meetings, our partners will consider voting startups into the next program.
- 02
Getting Projects up and running
Once a startup is voted into the program, they will work on joint projects, proofs of concepts and prototypes with the partner. During this phase, the STARTUP AUTOBAHN powered by Plug and Play team is there to guide and support both sides throughout the process.
- 03
Showcasing results to key stakeholders
Twice a year, at the peak of each program, is our EXPO. This invite-only event brings together our community, showcasing the work of the business units of our partners together with the startups. It has grown into a highly acclaimed event with a stacked program of speakers, experts, and the teams behind the technologies – creating a stage for industry-players, companies, startups and VCs to come together and celebrate the work of open innovation.
- 04
Next Steps
After the completion of the program, decisions are made as to where things will go next. This may include the extent to which the pilot project can be transferred into a series application at the partner company.
Events
Where we meet the ecosystem
Upcoming10.11.2026
Semicon Europe 2026
Messe Munich, Munich, Germany
Past event02.07.2026
Expo 2026: 10-Year Anniversary
In-Person
Past event22.10.2025
The AI Navigator: Launching a new era
In-Person
Apply
Three steps to get started
- Step 1
Tell us about your startup
- Step 2
Upload your pitch deck
- Step 3
Get invited to pitch in Stuttgart, Germany
