METRO Xcel

The METRO Accelerator, powered by Techstars, is a highly selective mentorship-driven program designed to support early-stage startups in the hospitality, retail, and food-tech sectors. Based in Berlin, the accelerator runs for three months and provides startups with access to extensive mentorship, industry expertise, and global networks. It offers up to €120,000 in funding for each participating company in exchange for up to 6% equity. This program focuses on digital solutions that enhance efficiency and innovation within the hospitality and retail industries. Startups in areas like restaurant tech, retail tech, and food innovation are prime candidates, and they benefit from close collaboration with METRO AG, one of the world’s largest wholesale and food service providers. Since its launch in 2015, the METRO Accelerator has helped companies like Flowtify and Frag Paul gain substantial traction, with several of its alumni raising significant follow-on investments post-program​.