International Matchmaking

Through International Matchmaking, we connect international startups and twin towns from abroad with FrankfurtRheinMain. This fosters targeted contacts with companies, investors and political decision-makers in the region – with the aim of implementing joint projects and strengthening local business clusters.

A selection of our projects

What is International Matchmaking all about?

Through International Matchmaking, we create synergies between start-ups, companies, investors and policymakers at an international level. The programme grew out of the idea of supporting startups from the FrankfurtRhineMain region in establishing connections with other countries – whilst at the same time attracting young companies from all over the world to Frankfurt as a business location. We draw on Frankfurt’s global network of numerous twin towns.

To achieve this, we are building on Frankfurt’s global network, which includes multiple partner cities and other international cities.

Who is this program for?

Startups

You can take part with your startup if you operate in the B2B sector, offer high digital added value and have been in business for 2–10 years – whether you’re based in the FrankfurtRhineMain region or internationally. You’ll benefit from targeted matchmaking with companies from the FrankfurtRhineMain region and its partner cities, expert feedback on the market, your product and your pitch, as well as visibility both regionally and internationally.

Twin Cities & Initatives

As an initiative or organisation from a twin town, you can become part of the International Matchmaking programme if you wish to promote exchanges between startups and businesses. Together with us, you can organise events or initiatives in the FrankfurtRhineMain region focused on your key areas of interest and set up targeted international matchmaking opportunities for your startups and partners.

Sponsors & Parners

As a sponsor or partner from the FrankfurtRhineMain region, you’ll support international matchmaking projects, contribute your own areas of focus and raise their profile. In doing so, you’ll gain early access to international start-ups, foster networking with our twin towns and position yourselves as a key player in innovation within the region.

Why FrankfurtRhineMain?​

Global
hub

In the heart of Europe – with an international airport and direct flights to destinations worldwide, an ideal time zone between America and Asia, and fast rail links in all directions.

Strong
ecosystem

A closely interconnected ecosystem comprising corporations, a financial centre featuring the ECB, Deutsche Börse, banks and investors, a vibrant startup cluster, leading universities and an active political landscape – all within a single region.

International environment & talent pool

FrankfurtRhineMain offers companies and start-ups a diverse, international labour market – with talent in technology, finance, industry, logistics and many other sectors.

We look forward to hearing from you.

Thank you!

You will receive a confirmation email from us within 24 hours. If you do not receive it, please contact us at team@frankfurtforward.com.

FAQ

How does the ‘International Matchmaking’ process work for startups?

Once you’ve got in touch via the form, we’ll assess whether you’re a good fit for the program. We’ll then connect you with relevant companies, investors and partners – for example, through events and matchmaking sessions – so you can launch joint projects. You’ll then remain part of the Frankfurt Forward network.

Please get in touch via the contact form, letting us know your areas of focus and goals. Together, we’ll plan initiatives or events in the FrankfurtRhineMain region. We’ll work with start-ups, investors and policymakers to bring our shared ideas to life.

Yes, that might be possible. We have already carried out projects with international cities outside the official partner network. Simply get in touch via the contact form – we’ll look into whether and how a collaboration would fit into the programme.

Yes, we’d be happy to work with you. As an investor, you’ll become part of our network in the FrankfurtRhineMain region and get to know international B2B start-ups. Through our events and matchmaking initiatives, you’ll gain access to start-ups from our partner cities and across the region. Simply get in touch via the contact form – we’ll see which projects or events match your areas of interest.

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