Topics
At Hummelnest Accelerator, we are driven by the ambition to accelerate the future. We explore which technologies will dominate the market, which business models have made the new norm, and which organisations will succeed in navigating these transitions.
Perfect Environment For Startups
With the backing of Raiffeisen-Landesbank Steiermark, we believe we have created a perfect environment for startups to create, work and serve as a bridge into the DACH region market. We promise to make you work hard and present you with all the opportunities you need. So are you interested already?
2 different paths to success
This year we are running 2 different tracks
Investment track: goal is to get an investment from Raiffeisen-Landesbank Steiermark
Venturing&investment track: goal is to enter a business relationship with start a POC an added bonus of a potential investment!
Investment track:
Healthcare
We welcome startups transforming health outcomes through innovative technologies and solutions — from digital health platforms and diagnostics to care delivery models that improve access, efficiency, and wellbeing. Whether you’re tackling clinical challenges or wellness empowerment, we’re interested in ideas that meaningfully impact people’s health.
Food & Agriculture
We’re looking for ventures that reimagine how food is produced, distributed, and consumed — from regenerative agriculture and precision farming to sustainable supply chains and food tech innovations. If your solution enhances productivity, reduces waste, or promotes resilience across the food ecosystem, this field is for you.
Energy
Startups driving the transition to cleaner, smarter energy systems are at the heart of this topic. We seek innovators in renewable generation, storage, grid optimization, energy efficiency, and carbon reduction technologies. Bring solutions that empower a resilient and sustainable energy future and contribute to energy independence.
Mobility
This area focuses on redefining how people and goods move — including electrification, shared mobility, smart infrastructure, logistics optimization, and software-enabled transport solutions. If your startup boosts efficiency, sustainability, and access in movement and transport, apply here.
Living and Renovating
We’re interested in startups that improve how we live, work, and build — from next-generation housing technologies and smart home systems to energy-efficient renovation and community design. Solutions that enhance comfort, affordability, sustainability, and urban resilience are especially welcome.
Venturing & investment track:
New Way of Work / Collaboration / Culture
We’re looking for startups rethinking how work is organized, experienced, and led in a rapidly changing world. From digital collaboration tools and people analytics to new models of leadership, learning, and workplace culture, we seek solutions that put people at the center while unlocking organizational potential.
Financial Services / FinTech
This field focuses on startups modernizing financial services through technology — from digital payments and embedded finance to data-driven banking, automation, and blockchain-based solutions. If your venture improves accessibility, efficiency, transparency, or customer experience in finance, this is the right space for you.
Sustainability & Circular Economy
This focus area is for startups combining strong business models with positive environmental and social impact. We are particularly interested in scalable circular solutions, climate and clean technologies, and impact-driven digital platforms.
