Infoveranstaltung zum Gründungsstipendium MGZstart 2026

In the organizer's words:

The Mediengründerzentrum NRW (MGZ) is opening the application phase for the new round of its start-up grant MGZstart. The program is aimed at founders and young companies from the media industry in North Rhine-Westphalia who want to develop their business idea professionally and sustainably. With 12,000 euros in start-up capital, a comprehensive qualification program and a strong industry network, MGZstart supports creative media makers for a year on their way to a successful business launch.

Support for creative founders
Whether film, games, XR, advertising, social media or media-related AI applications - the MGZstart start-up grant is aimed at anyone who wants to actively shape the media landscape in NRW with their idea. The one-year program combines financial support, practical training and individual support. In seminars, workshops and coaching sessions, experienced experts from the fields of production, marketing, law and business management impart the crucial know-how for a successful start-up - from strategy, organization and acquisition to finance and legal issues.

Networking and mentoring
In addition to the specialist content, MGZstart focuses on networking: scholarship holders become part of an active community of founders, mentors and industry professionals. Around 40 events per year offer practice-oriented impulses, valuable contacts and space for personal and entrepreneurial development.

Requirements and application
Founders and young companies from the fields of film (fiction, non-fiction, animation), games (web, mobile, XR, VR), advertising (agency models, branded content, image film), social media (content creation, services) and AI (media-related apps & software) are eligible for funding. The prerequisite for participation is that the company was founded no more than three years ago and is based in North Rhine-Westphalia. Relevant professional experience in the media industry is also expected. The decisive factor is the motivation to take the next step with entrepreneurial commitment.

Application process and deadlines
The application phase for MGZstart 2026 runs until Sunday, November 30, 2025. After a pre-selection in mid-December, selected applicants will be invited to the jury meeting in Cologne in January 2026 to present their start-up idea in a short elevator pitch. The scholarship starts on January 1, 2026 and runs until December 31, 2026.