000 Read the material on this page. And preferably more.
Maybe it is just us, but we like to work with people who do their homework.
001 See what we offer and what the experience is like.
We look for technical talent addressing a clear consumer need. We offer you funding for a year, a support network that lets you concentrate on your idea and quarterly events with industry-leading presenters and content. HackFwd is different from other programs in that we aim to take you through from idea to a successful business – that's why we fund you for a full 12 months. While our headquarters are in Germany, our startups can be located anywhere in Europe.
Hear from our HackBoxes. Our startups, known as HackBoxes during their journey with us, are selected from the top technical talent in Europe. Their success is our number one priority. In addition to funding, we support our startups with a network of top experts across Europe, mentorship and tailored events to meet their needs. Watch the video to hear what they think about their experience, or check out the current HackBoxes.
Something for the ToolBox.
We have negotiated some great products and services for our startups. Our ToolBox includes subscriptions and credits to some of the most useful tools for developers and entrepreneurs. We also provide help and support in getting the most out them.
002 Get to know our Geek Agreement and our investment model.
HackFwd has a fixed investment model that depends on the size of your team. We only invest in technological talent, so if you have a team consisting of only business-types, we are not the right place.
Our Dilution Calculator details the amounts we invest. It also acts as a guide to what your future might look like. Quite obviously, this is not legally binding, but rather a handy tool for you.
Our Geek Agreement is the contract. You can see it here. It is the same for all of our companies.
What We Offer is a document detailing exactly what HackFwd is about and who we invest in. Are you a fit with HackFwd and vice versa? Please download and read this document.
Our Tools and Documents.
We don’t believe in small print, so we keep everything 100% public. Download away!
003 Talk to a Referrer.
You can't apply to HackFwd directly. Instead, you have to go through a referrer. Our referrers are experts in their fields and eminent startup or technology figures in their areas. HackFwd primarily chooses startups from active referrals, so work with a referrer who knows you, or whom you can approach. They will be able to refer your idea for consideration with HackFwd.
004 Fill in the Phase 2 Generator and submit to your Referrer.
HackFwd's business model tool Phase 2 Generator acts both as our application tool, and a freely usable tool for working through your business model. You can process your idea with the help of tips and resources, and either submit the idea to a HackFwd referrer or keep the work for yourself.
If you meet the criteria of what we are looking for and have checked most of the boxes mentioned on this page, we will schedule a meeting with you over video conference or in person. We don't like to keep you waiting any longer than is necessary, so we are committed to giving you an answer within 72 hours of meeting with you.