The competition categories
The prize is awarded in four categories:
- Startup
For young, innovative companies with strong growth potential that were founded between March 1, 2023 and March 1, 2026. - Rising star
For companies that have successfully established themselves on the market and demonstrate dynamic development. - Succession
For successful company takeovers that combine tradition and future. - Lifetime achievement
For personalities who have borne entrepreneurial responsibility over many years and have had a lasting impact on the economy and society.
Competition procedure
Application period: 02.03.2026 - 30.04.2026
While companies can apply directly for Startup and Up-and-Coming, Succession and Lifetime Achievement can only be nominated by the respective savings bank.
After the application deadline, an expert jury will make a pre-selection. The strongest applications in the Startup and Up-and-Coming categories then pitch their business model to the jury. For the three finalists in both categories, a public vote is then held via the Bavarian Founder Award's social media channels. The result accounts for 40 percent of the overall score.
Award ceremony
The award ceremony will take place on July 20, 2026 as part of an evening event at BMW Welt Munich.
You can apply here:
https://www.bayerischer-gruenderpreis.de/#gruenderpreis-kategorien