CDL-Berlin
Enhancing the commercialization of science for the betterment of humankind
CDL-Berlin, run by DEEP at ESMT Berlin, is part of the Creative Destruction Lab's global network, offering a nine-month objective-based mentorship program for science- and technology-based startups. We host a Health and Next Gen Computing stream, connecting the founders with world-class startup mentors (exited entrepreneurs, seasoned investors and C-Level veterans) to accelerate their growth and enhance their chances for rapid success.
Our Streams
Health
Our Health Stream supports deep tech companies in diagnostics, therapeutics, longevity, women's health, medical devices.
- 58 Startups in healthcare from predominantly Europe, but also US and Asia
- 13 graduates in 2023 and 2024
- Ranks 8th for numbers of applicants among 30+ CDL streams in its 2nd year
Partner: Bayer
Next Gen Computing
Support ventures in New Compute (Bio, Analog, Neuromorphic, Quantum, Photonics) & solutions for energy-efficiency
- Launched in 2024 as the 1st European stream between Germany and France
- 14 Startups predominantly from six European countries in its launch year
- Complements CDL’s strong track record in compute
Partners: Dieter Schwarz Stiftung, HEC Paris, Campus Founders, TUM Campus Heilbronn
Want to become part of CDL?
CDL-Berlin Venture Testimonials
Through CDL we have clarified and validated our strategy, refined our messaging, and have a clear path forward.
In short, we evolved into a well-networked venture with a clear purpose, a more advanced technology, and a better understanding of our market & market fit.
CDL-Berlin has exceeded our already high expectations.
We've gone through several mentoring and accelerator programs in recent years and believe that CDL offers the by far highest value for startups and their founders through it's rigorous selection process on both sides.
The biggest impact CDL had on us was by supporting the funding round.
It has clearly exceeded our expectations by unique, open and honest mentoring.
The CDL Network of Innovation Ecosystems
CDL is available across 11 locations, with each location offering unique streams and resources to support early-stage ventures in scaling. Launched in 2012 at the Rotman School of Management at University of Toronto, the program has now expanded with locations in:
- Paris (HEC Paris)
- Atlanta (Scheller College of Business, Georgia Institute of Technology)
- Madison (Wisconsin School of Business, University of Wisconsin-Madison)
- Seattle (University of Washington, Foster School of Business)
- Vancouver (Sauder School of Business, University of British Columbia)
- Montreal (HEC Montréal)
- Calgary (Haskayne School of Business, University of Calgary)
- Halifax (Rowe School of Business, Dalhousie University)
- Estonia (University of Tartu)
- Berlin (ESMT Berlin)
- Melbourne (Monash Business School, Monash University)
Explore all CDL sites.