15 startups graduate from the Fit 4 Start #15 Programme

Following a competitive selection and pitching process in autumn 2024, 20 startups were selected for participation in Fit 4 Start from 420 applications submitted by companies from nearly 70 different countries. This 15th edition supported projects across three categories: digital, healthtech and space.

The startups received six months of tailored coaching, as well as a grant of €50,000 each – subject to incorporation in Luxembourg – provided by the Ministry of the Economy. Those that go on to raise additional funding and hire at least two employees may be eligible for a further €100,000 in public support.

"The 15 startups completing this edition of Fit 4 Start are a shining example of the excellence, diversity and potential of the young companies we support," comments Mario Grotz, CEO of Luxinnovation. "Excellence, because they meet the highest standards in both technological innovation and entrepreneurial discipline. Diversity, because they represent a broad range of sectors – from digital health and AI to cybersecurity and sustainable technologies – and come from a wide array of international backgrounds. And potential, because they demonstrate strong prospects for growth, investment and real-world market impact."

Nearly 200 startups supported since launch

Launched ten years ago by the Ministry of the Economy, the Fit 4 Start acceleration programme is run by Luxinnovation in partnership with Technoport, the Luxembourg Space Agency (LSA), the Luxembourg City Incubator, the Luxembourg House of Financial Technology (LHoFT), the House of Biohealth, the Luxembourg House of Cybersecurity and LuxProvide. Since its inception, the programme has received over 3,000 applications from around the globe.

"Since 2015, Fit 4 Start has established itself as a cornerstone of Luxembourg's innovation ecosystem and a benchmark programme internationally," says Mickael Borger, Advisor – Start-Up Relations at Luxinnovation. "It offers real added value to entrepreneurs by providing a demanding and structured framework, based on clear performance and impact criteria, targeted coaching by leading experts, and a powerful springboard for growth – including increased visibility, strategic networking and privileged access to investors and industry partners."

Across 15 editions, nearly 200 startups from 35 countries have been supported. Beyond intensive coaching, Fit 4 Start has helped build a tight-knit, international entrepreneurial community over the past decade.

"Fit 4 Start plays a pivotal role at the core of Luxembourg's national innovation ecosystem," says Lex Delles, Minister of the Economy, SMEs, Energy and Tourism. "It helps attract cutting-edge companies from around the world while acting as a genuine springboard for young tech ventures — fully aligned with our ambition to enhance Luxembourg's appeal. The programme embodies the spirit of the 10-point action plan we unveiled together with the Minister of Finance last March, by providing tailored support, facilitating access to funding and creating the right conditions for innovative solutions to emerge. It contributes to positioning Luxembourg as a leading innovation hub in Europe."

To further strengthen ties and build on collective experience, the Fit 4 Start Alumni Club has been relaunched and is now open to all former participants. "This initiative will foster synergies and cross-collaboration. It is a strategic lever to boost innovation, support the international growth of startups and enhance Luxembourg's standing as a European technology hub," says Martin Guérin, Senior Advisor – Start-Up Relations at Luxinnovation.

At the close of the ceremony, applications officially opened for Fit 4 Start #16. The call will close at noon on 11 August 2025. As in previous editions, 20 startups will be selected across three categories: digital, health technologies and space. The final selection of participants will be announced in October during the Luxembourg Venture Days, after two days of pitches by the shortlisted candidates.

Press release by the Ministry of the Economy and Luxinnovation