Connecting Midwest and German Cleantech Startup Ecosystems

Event Details:

• Event Start: September 14, 2025 
• Event End: September 19, 2025 
• Location: Chicago & Denver 
• Language: English
• Participation Fee: 695 EUR

Are you part of the German cleantech startup ecosystem and want to play an active role in shaping transatlantic cooperation? Then we invite you to participate in our expert trip to the Midwest!  

Goal of the trip:  
The expansion of sustainable partnerships of innovation ecosystems in the cleantech sector between Germany and the US.  

Target group for the trip:  
Startup-supporting organizations such as incubators, accelerators, technology centers, innovation officers, economic development agencies and networking organizations interested in building long-term contacts and collaborations with leading energy, climate change and urban tech players in the Midwest and Germany.  

We invite US-based organizations, such as innovation hubs, economic development leaders, universities, incubators, accelerators, and other startup support organizations to connect with the delegation through joint events, site visits, and networking opportunities. 
Let’s explore how our ecosystems can collaborate to accelerate sustainable technologies, foster startup growth, and shape the future of climate innovation — together. 

The trip is funded by the European Recovery Program (ERP) on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection (BMWK). It is a return visit to the successful delegation trip to Berlin and Leipzig in March 2025.  

📅 Travel dates will follow shortly  
The final travel dates will follow soon. However, you can already express your interest now - we will keep you up to date on all developments.  

The participation fee is 695 EUR (covers organization of all agenda points including site visits and networking events; accommodation throughout the official trip dates; ground transportation within the US; and select meals. Participants pay remaining costs, including international and local flights, transport to and from airports, and accommodation outside the scope of the trip dates.) 

Take an active part in shaping the future of transatlantic cleantech exchange - we look forward to your participation! 

Key Takeaways:

1. 🌍 First-hand market insights & strategies:  
   Learn about the innovation environment in the Midwest - one of the most exciting growth regions for cleantech in the US.  
2. 🤝 Network with impact:  
   Exchange ideas with local startup ecosystems, innovation hubs, universities and economic policy players. Establish partnerships that create added value for your region.  
3. 🎤 Visibility on the transatlantic stage:  
   Participate in panels, workshops and networking events - and position your organization as an international partner for innovation, scaling and collaboration.  
4. 🏙️ On-site visits to US cleantech players:  
   Gain exclusive insights into innovation centers, urban transformation projects and technologies that combine sustainability and economic development.