EXIST-Women Retreat: Two days that made a difference
12.05.2025
Emma Schmitt
Event
How does an idea become a startup? What does it take for women in the startup world to not only become visible, but also to move forward with confidence? Answers to these questions were provided at our EXIST Women Retreat. In an open, inspiring atmosphere, female scholarship holders from the DeepTechHub region came together to empower each other, learn from one another, and grow together.
EXIST-Women: A support program with impact
The EXIST-Women program is aimed at women from universities and research institutions throughout Germany who are interested in starting their own business. The goal is to accompany women early on in their entrepreneurial journey, give them room to develop, and support them with a scholarship, coaching, and a strong network.
The EXIST-Women program has been implemented at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) since this year – by the KIT-Gründerschmiede and the maKeIT initiative, with support from the DeepTechHub and EnTechnon. The close exchange between these partners shows how valuable it is to network ecosystems and create synergies – to the benefit of female founders, who benefit from the diversity of perspectives, resources, and experiences.
2-day retreat
The EXIST Women Retreat took place here in Karlsruhe at the beginning of May, where the scholarship holders came together, networked, and worked on topics together with the support of experts.
Day 1 – Connection & Growth
The first day of the retreat was all about arriving, getting to know each other, and growing together. Interactive workshops and peer sessions focused on personal development, self-reflection, and the question of how female founders want to define their own path. The protected setting, which enabled genuine conversations on an equal footing, was particularly appreciated—many participants spoke of a safe space that encouraged exchange on a deeper level.
Day 2 – Empowerment & Community
The second day brought new energy: whether in the form of inspiring stories from successful female founders, emotional conversations, or different formats, the focus was on mutual empowerment. The retreat was also a place for personal stories, tears of emotion, fighting spirit, and visions. The improv theater and yoga session were particularly well received – a valuable addition that you don’t experience every day as a founder.
What remains? Connection, energy, and new formats
What particularly touched many participants was that it wasn’t just about strategies and business models, but about them as people. The retreat focused on the personal, and this is precisely what created a strong, sustainable network. The desire for more visibility for female perspectives in the start-up landscape was clearly expressed: formats that put women and their concepts in the spotlight are in demand – not only as inspiration, but as a necessary impetus for a diverse and sustainable ecosystem.
We are happy to be part of this – and look forward to everything that will come out of these two days.
