Three ComTech-Incubators and Accelerators you should know about

In a previous blog post, we covered funding opportunities for deep-tech startups in communications. While funding is a crucial factor, it isn’t the only element that can make or break the success of a startup. Another key pillar is access to knowledge in its various forms, as well as dedicated networks and business units within corporations.

Here are some incubators and accelerators that equip telco startups with exactly that.

Telecommunications (telco) is a specialized niche, but it is a successful one. Most general-purpose incubators—such as the well-known California-based Y Combinator, or Techstars, with its Berlin branch—spread risk by accepting startups across a variety of industries. In contrast, specialized programs may not have such a broad network, but they offer the advantage of focused industry and research expertise.

At the xG Incubator, we place a strong emphasis on technological development, bridging the gap between research and industry. We can connect you with industry experts and provide access to the 6G-RIC integration lab (based at Fraunhofer HHI) for hands-on prototyping, rigorous testing, and careful evaluation. Our funding is equity-free, leaving you with no dependence on us after the program ends. Along with the other incubators from StartupConnect, we are the only support programs for telco startups in Germany that are not linked to a specific company.

Another Berlin-based program is Telekom Hubraum which focuses on 5G, AI, IoT, API development, and the Metaverse. Their Digital Innovation Program features an open application process, granting access to infrastructure and industry mentoring from Deutsche Telekom. The AI Co-Creation Program specifically supports AI startups, while the two Prototyping Campuses in Berlin and Krakow offer labs to test 5G and AR/VR applications. Additional investment opportunities are also available through T.Capital or the hubraum VC network. Read more about Telekom’s cooperation models here and the story of MonoLet.

You may also have heard of Startup Harbour from Bosch Business Innovations. The programme was re-launched in January 2025 with a new structure and aims to refine the Bosch Innovation Framework. This framework wants to implement innovation in the Bosch ecosystem and collaborate with startups. With an active portfolio since 2019, it focuses on early-stage development, market identification, and business scaling, but does not have a specific telco focus. For example, it has supported Health Caters and Menlo79. Located in Berlin Tempelhof, it might still be a valuable option for the Berliners among us.

Outside Berlin, in addition to StartupConnect’s launchub24, SSC KL and  6GEMcubator with Cube 5, there is Wayra. Founded in Munich in 2012 and part of O2 Telefónica, it positions startups as solutions to current challenges. They initiate pilot projects that allow startups to test their solutions risk-free, with the potential for long-term integration into O2 Telefónica's offerings. This is the story of Glactify, for example. Wayra also offers a test lab for Robotics, IoT, and VR technologies.

In conclusion, while each incubator and accelerator has its own unique strengths, they all share a common goal: to support deep-tech startups in telecommunications. By offering essential resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities, they foster both learning and growth. This demonstrates that true value in this sector is not only measured in financial terms, but also in knowledge and collaboration.