The TUM Venture Labs, BioLabs and Eli Lilly and Company (Lilly) have announced BioLabs|TUM, a new innovation center for biotechnology in Munich. The project is scheduled to launch in early 2026 and is specifically aimed at early-stage biotech startups. The 1,800-square-meter site in the city center offers fully equipped laboratories and office space for 15 to 20 young companies. The goal is to accelerate the development of groundbreaking therapies by bringing together scientific talent, venture capital, and pharmaceutical expertise.
“We are very pleased to announce this collaboration with TUM Venture Labs and Lilly to establish BioLabs|TUM in Munich – an important milestone for the expansion of our innovation ecosystem in Germany,”
says Johannes Fruehauf, Founder and CEO of BioLabs.
“With its world-class science, cutting-edge research facilities, and growing investor interest, Munich is the ideal starting point for the next generation of biotech entrepreneurs.”
Tailor-made programs and global networks
BioLabs|TUM aims to combine BioLabs' proven coworking lab model, the innovative power of TUM Venture Labs, and Lilly's global reach in research, development, and venture capital. Selected startups will receive access to tailored funding programs, strategic consulting, and the expertise of Lilly's scientific experts. Philipp Gerbert, CEO of TUM Venture Labs, is confident:
"This partnership strengthens our mission to translate cutting-edge research into practical applications. BioLabs|TUM expands our dynamic startup ecosystem with world-class infrastructure and global networking. The initiative reflects our shared commitment to translating scientific excellence into entrepreneurial success."
Munich as an ideal location
The Munich location is strategically important for Lilly. Julie Gilmore, Vice President and Global Head of Lilly Gateway Labs, says:
"BioLabs|TUM is an exciting and unique collaboration that takes our shared experience to a new level, catalyzing scientific innovation and equipping emerging biotech companies for the complexity of therapeutic research and development."
She continues:
"Lilly's investment in BioLabs|TUM through our Catalyze360 model allows us to share our common passion for bold scientific breakthroughs. Munich's strong scientific community and renowned facilities make it an ideal location to foster early-stage innovation and advance the development of innovative therapies that can make a meaningful difference for patients in Germany and around the world."
This alliance creates a new hub in Munich's startup ecosystem, which is expected to strengthen the international visibility of the local biotech scene. Combining state-of-the-art laboratory infrastructure, targeted funding, and global networks, BioLabs|TUM offers optimal conditions for quickly translating research results into marketable applications.
