You're building something ambitious: a sensor that doesn't exist yet, a robotics system that could redefine an industry, or a quantum chip that most people still think is science fiction. You've validated the core technology. Now you need capital, customers, and the right doors to open.ExciteLab is a high-tech accelerator based in Dresden, Germany, launched in 2024 through a collaboration betweenTU Dresden, theTU Dresden Aktiengesellschaft (TUDAG) andSpinLab. The accelerator program supports startups working in robotics, sensors, IoT, semiconductors, and quantum technologies. Here are ten reasons why deeptech startups should join ExciteLab.

Supply chain sovereignty, artificial intelligence in industry, sustainable hardware, and resilient connectivity infrastructure are currently among the key industrial policy debates in Europe. The fourth batch of ExciteLab addresses these intersections: ten startups from Italy, Germany, Sweden, Norway, and the Czech Republic have now started the acceleration program in Dresden. In close collaboration with partners such as Infineon Technologies, ZEISS and Von Ardenne, the teams gain direct access to industrial expertise, infrastructure, and capital. 

 According to Dealroom's European Deeptech Report 2025, deeptech now accounts for 28% of all European venture capital investments. European deeptech startups raised more than €13 billion in 2025 alone, spanning quantum computers, space systems, and autonomous robotics. And those deeptech startups that reach the commercialisation phase are now reaching unicorn status 2.5 years faster than the generation before them. Capital is following. No other segment of the European startup ecosystem has seen as much fund formation activity over the past twelve months as deeptech, established investors are doubling down and a new generation of specialised funds is stepping onto the scene. We've put together ten venture capital funds that positioned themselves in 2025 and 2026 for deeptech investing in Europe, and that you should know as a founder, investor, or ecosystem builder.