We are connecting the dots, because together we can achieve more.

Who we are

The MUNICH INNOVATION ECOSYSTEM is a neutral platform where startups, talent, academia, corporates, and public institutions come together to connect, collaborate, and innovate.We unite all key stakeholders in one network - fostering open, cross-sector collaboration with a 360° approach. Together, we’re shaping the future of tech-based, impact-driven innovation in Munich - one of the world’s most livable cities.

What we do

Ecosystem Marketing

We position the MUNICH INNOVATION ECOSYSTEM as a key driver of tech-based, impact-driven innovation. Through strategic communication and shared content formats, we highlight the strengths of our network and ensure consistent visibility - locally and globally, together with our partners.

Ecosystem Enabler

We actively build and strengthen connections within the ecosystem - through curated events, targeted matchmaking, and ongoing partner engagement. As a neutral platform, we initiate and support collaborative projects and help bring them to life: from concept and funding applications to implementation and long-term impact.

Ecosystem Agenda Setting

We identify, shape, and communicate key innovation themes — based on insights from our diverse partner network. Through publications, events, and thought leadership formats, we help our ecosystem stay ahead of emerging trends and create shared direction across stakeholders.

Shareholder

Prof. Mattias Notz
CEO of Start2 Group GmbH
Prof. Dr. Klaus Saller
Managing Director of Strascheg Center for Entrepreneurship GmbH
Prof. Dr. Helmut Schönenberger
CEO of UnternehmerTUM GmbH

MEET THE TEAM

Cynthia Britten
Marketing Lead
Munich Innovation Ecosystem GmbH
Frizzi Engler-Hamm
CEO
Munich Innovation Ecosystem GmbH
Michael Gindert
Strategic Operations and Technology Lead
Munich Innovation Ecosystem GmbH
Dr. Fabian Heil
Ecosystem Architect
Munich Innovation Ecosystem GmbH
Sebastian Hertlein
Digital Transformation Lead
Munich Innovation Ecosystem GmbH
Tina Höfinghoff
Senior Advisor
Munich Innovation Ecosystem GmbH
Tanja Knöller
Ecosystem Lead
Munich Innovation Ecosystem GmbH
Lena Posse
Project Manager Marketing & Events
Munich Innovation Ecosystem GmbH
Janina Wiedenbach
Senior Manager Innovation & Strategy
Munich Innovation Ecosystem GmbH

WE’RE HIring

Keep an eye out for new opportunities.

OPEN POSITIONS

SOME BIG MOMENTS

Foundation

2015

The MUNICH INNOVATION ECOSYSTEM GmbH was founded in 2015 (as MUC SUMMIT GmbH) by UnternehmerTUM, Strascheg Center for Entrepreneurship, and Start2 Group. It aims to connect startups, industry, and academia in Munich.

MUST – The Munich Summit

2016–2018

A 3-day curated annual event in Munich, MUST, gathered 400 by invite-only global tech startups, VCs, industry player, and academia. With workshops, pitches, and networking, it fostered partnerships and innovation.

Strategic Process

2019

Building on a strategy process that started in 2013, we led three workshops with 45 C-level leaders from government, industry, and academia. Collaborating with BMW, Google, Intel, and others, we shaped Munich’s innovation strategy and aligned stakeholders for future growth.

AI+MUNICH

2021

A joint initiative by SCE, TUM Venture Labs, and MUC Summit to position Munich as a global AI hub, driving innovation, research, and collaboration across startups, corporates, and academia.

MUNICH INNOVATION ECOSYSTEM

2023

Evolving from our experience, we sharpened our vision and emerged as The MUNICH INNOVATION ECOSYSTEM, fostering stronger collaboration between startups, corporations, and research institutions to reinforce Munich’s position as a leading innovation hub.

THE POOL

2024

Launched as a dynamic platform for founders, talents and researchers to co-create and accelerate innovation projects, THE POOL fosters cross-sector collaboration and new business opportunities.

First MUNICH INNOVATION ECOSYSTEM Meetup

2024

A curated event, bringing together key ecosystem stakeholders to discuss emerging trends, strategic priorities, and strengthen Munich’s position as a leading innovation hub.

Innovation Agenda 2030

2024

Our long-term roadmap aligns Munich’s startups, corporates, and policymakers to drive transformative technologies, sustainable growth, and global competitiveness through 2030.

AI NATION Launch

2024

Born from AI+MUNICH and KIEZ, AI NATION accelerates Germany’s AI revolution by identifying and fully supporting the nation’s most promising AI startups, driving innovation transfer, university collaboration, and deep-tech growth.

OUr strong Partner Network

JOIN the ecosystem

MUNICH INNOVATION ECOSYSTEM

Reach out and let’s explore how you can get involved.

Logo Munich Innovation Ecosystem

ADRESS: Munich Innovation Ecosystem GmbH | Freddie-Mercury-Straße 5 | 80797 München

CONTACT: +49 173 3862862 | contact@munich-ecosystem.de

© 2026 MUNICH INNOVATION ECOSYSTEM GmbH. All rights reserved.
* Status February 2026, all rights reserved.
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