These NRW startups are heading to Slush

NRW is one of Europe’s leading startup hubs. Its large market, dense research landscape and strong networks provide ideal conditions for new business ideas. The Slush startup funding program from NRW.Global Business showcases the innovation of the region's startup landscape. Forty-five startups based in NRW applied for funding to participate in one of the world’s largest startup events. A panel of experts has now chosen the six companies that will represent NRW at Slush 2026 in Helsinki at the German Pavilion organized by the German-Finnish Chamber of Commerce (AHK Finland).

The candidates presented innovative solutions that covered a broad spectrum of future-oriented industries. In the field of sustainable materials development, Co-reactive stood out by producing CO₂-efficient building materials. TERNAfil manufactures high-performance fibers specifically developed for extreme operating conditions and used in aerospace, defense and energy technology. Three other startups come from the healthcare sector: Detechgene offers rapid PCR-level diagnostics, Femi-ON is working on a drug-free solution for menstrual pain, and Medirion uses AI-powered thermography for the early detection of rheumatoid arthritis. And in the field of deep tech, Barricadix develops AI-powered security and risk analyses for critical infrastructure.

OSPHIM, the winner of the OUT OF THE BOX.NRW Award, will also be in Helsinki. The startup uses AI to optimize the setup process for injection molding machines in the plastics processing industry.

Slush brings young companies together with investors and facilitates global networking. Participating startups from NRW have the opportunity to present themselves on the German Pitching Stage and network at various events, such as the “Germany Beer-Together” and “Slush After Work.” The Enterprise Europe Network (EEN) also organizes delegation visits and targeted matchmaking.