Long-Distance Transport 2025

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Frankfurt am Main Hbf im Licht der untergehenden Sonne - DB Fernverkehr mit ICE 4 Baureihe 412 bei Einfahrt
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We’re thrilled to once again launch the DB Long-Distance Transport (DB Fernverkehr) program in 2025 – in partnership with our strong partner from the department DB Fernverkehr. Over the course of 100 days, selected startups will have the opportunity to tailor their solutions to real-world challenges and test them live within the Deutsche Bahn environment.

  • Access to DB experts and data​
  • Access to a network of selected coaching and mentoring experts​
  • EUR 25,000, no equity taken​
  • Coworking Space at our beautiful office site at Berlin-Jannowitzbrücke​
  • You will be supported by a dedicated DB mindbox startup manager and will have 24/7 access to our coworking space

This is a unique chance to build the foundation for long-term collaboration and impactful projects with Deutsche Bahn Group – Europe’s largest mobility and infrastructure provider.

You have questions about the program?Join our weekly open Q&A session every Monday from 11-11:30 am (CEST). We’ll be happy to chat with you and answer anything you’d like to know. Click here to dial in!

01 – Current topic

DB Fernverkehr ensures mobility for millions of travelers across Germany and beyond. In 2025, we’re looking for startups that can help us develop a warning system for train drivers to reduce the risk of passing red signals – and thus increase both safety and punctuality. We look forward to your solutions!

Acoustic/visual warning systems for train drivers

Passing red signals is one of the most critical safety risks in rail operations. To support train drivers in these situations, DB Fernverkehr is looking for a warning system that issues acoustic or visual alerts when a train is approaching a red signal. The goal is to increase safety and punctuality without interfering with the train control system. We imagine this as a non-intrusive solution (independent from existing onboard systems) that could be implemented as an application on a tablet or smartphone, using real-time train position data and parameters such as speed or braking behavior. Your solution may use existing GPS data from the train and/or data from your devices. For the 100-day POC phase you will be provided with sample data, e.g. from GPS and train signals. How can your technology help us detect critical situations earlier and warn engineers in time? We’re excited to hear your approaches!

Timeline

17. Aug. 2025 – Application deadline

Last day to apply for the program (eod).

29. Aug. 2025 – Announcement of candidates

Invitation of selected teams.

23. Sep. 2025 – Selection day

Pitch your solution live on stage to an expert jury and audience in September (tbc).

13. Oct. 2025 – Start of program

Start of the 100-day Proof-of-Concept (PoC) to develop and test a prototype in cooperation with DB.

February 2026 – End of program

End of 100-day Proof-of-Concept (PoC) and presentation of results is expected to take place in February 2026 (tbd).