Startup communities in Köln

In-Person

Growing community powered by KI group hosting regular tech talks, hands-on workshops, and networking on applied AI and data science for founders and practitioners.

Hybrid

Meetup community for aspiring and experienced tech entrepreneurs with free workshops on startup fundamentals, idea validation, customer acquisition, and local ecosystem networking.

Hybrid

Regional innovation hub connecting established companies with Cologne's startup ecosystem through events, coworking, founder stipends, and the Rheinland-Startups platform.

In-Person

100+ student team at University of Cologne developing social and sustainable startups, competing annually at Enactus National Cup.

In-Person

Independent student e.V. linking university life and startups through monthly Gründungsabend talks, workshops, RHIVE conferences, and founder networking.

Hybrid

Cologne-based FLINTA* entrepreneur community hosting monthly coworking and networking for freelance, self-employed, and founder FLINTA* people focused on business growth and queerness.

Hybrid

Cross-university community network of Cologne's Gateway universities offering startup events, mentoring, talent matching, and ecosystem connections for science- and tech-based founders.

Hybrid

Rhineland deeptech scale-up community and startup factory connecting Cologne Düsseldorf and Aachen founders with shared labs mentors investors and industry partners.

Hybrid

Nonprofit coordinating Cologne's university startup services with free founder events, ecosystem tools, Fit for Invest sessions, and cross-institution networking.

In-Person

Industry association and InsurTech community uniting insurers, startups, and technology providers to accelerate digital transformation and innovation in insurance.

In-Person

Migrant-led organization supporting refugees and migrants through social entrepreneurship, startup guidance, and inclusion programs linking communities with institutions.

In-Person

Right-bank technology and founder center in Cologne-Kalk with about 40 resident startups, labs, coworking, and an active founder community for deep-tech and life-science ventures.

Hybrid

Free monthly meetup since June 2025 for AI-assisted coding, product building, and marketing automation with 100+ builders in person and online via STARTPLATZ Cologne.

Hybrid

Registered nonprofit and one of Germany's largest digital-economy networks in Cologne, organizing Startup Breakfast, CEO lunches, and regular events for founders and digital companies.

In-Person

Established e.V. connecting founders with entrepreneurs and leaders through regular network meetings and expert rounds in Cologne and the Rhineland.

In-Person

Local chapter launched in January 2025 offering inclusive meetups, technical deep dives, and networking for women working in or entering artificial intelligence.