Gate 5.0 is looking for agri-startup teams

For Munich AgrifoodFor startups facing specific challenges in operations, sustainability, or productivity, Gate 5.0 offers an attractive opportunity to access funding: The European-funded project has launched an open call and is linking it to a matchmaking process in March and April 2026. Those who collaborate with a suitable technology partner can develop a joint innovation project and secure €118,500 in funding. However, applications are only accepted as part of a consortium. Teams consisting of at least one agrifood company and one technology company are sought. Individual applications are not permitted.

This is particularly relevant for agrifood startups when they already have a clearly defined challenge and require technological support for its implementation. According to the project, agrifood companies should contribute concrete operational, sustainability-related, or productivity-related challenges. Technology companies will then present their digital services and technological expertise, for example, in the areas of artificial intelligence, networked systems, robotics, unmanned aerial systems, data analysis, and decision support.

Three steps to your goal

The first step is the matchmaking process: It runs for two months and is designed to bring both sides together in a targeted manner. Participants can use the B2Match platform to search for suitable partners and arrange bilateral meetings. These meetings are intended to help assess the potential for cooperation and the feasibility of a joint project early on. This allows participants not only to gather new contacts but also to structure their search for a partner for a potential job application within a defined framework.

Three online information events are scheduled to accompany this, the next one on April 7th.

The events will cover the goals and structure of Gate 5.0, the conditions of the open call, the matchmaking process, the use of the platform, and the preparation of a joint application. Two sessions will also include thematic focuses on key challenges in the area of Agriculture 5.0 and on strengthening female entrepreneurs in agriculture.

Therefore, anyone who already knows where to apply technological leverage in their own company can use the matchmaking phase to establish the right contacts early on.

Once interested parties have formed an eligible consortium, they will jointly submit the application by April 30, 2026 at the latest. According to project information, the evaluation is scheduled for May and June 2026, and selected projects will be notified in July 2026.

You can find more information on the Gate 5.0 website.