How two female founders climb every day to change the world of plastics

In this session, we talk with the two female founders of MAD about their compelling step-by-step story – from their idea of a sustainable material idea to a prototype in a climbing gym. We talk about their first proof of concept and their route to find investment to change the future of plastic materials.

• How a step by step strategy builds trust when founding a company
• How media coverage and grant applications play a crucial role in the early days of your startup
• Why finding your first customer is challenging even with strong backing and how to tackle it

Application Berliner Startup Stipendium until May 4th 2026
Start Stipendium: June 1st 2026

Marta Agueda Carlero & Manuela Garcia
Co Founders of MAD Material

• Building a deep tech startup using mycelium fiber to replace hard plastics
• Developed the first climbing route made from mushrooms
• Featured in Climbing Magazine and winners of multiple pitch competitions
• Supported by Berliner Startup Stipendium and selected for Be Visioneers by Mercedes Benz and Vision Lab by Earlybird
• Awarded third prize at the Singa Newcomer Award Berlin and funded through Transfer Bonus by IBB

moderated by: Etta Dannemann in her role as head coach

Etta Dannemann moderates the event in her role as Startup Coach at the SIBB Incubator. As a solopreneur, trainer, and architect by education, she loves creating new things — but even more, supporting others as they build and grow. Etta is passionate about empowering women in tech, helping them turn their ideas into action and leave their unique mark on the world.

• Aspiring female founders who want to learn from founders further along in their journey
• Founders planning to raise a funding round and looking for practical tips and insights
• Founders interested in finding out whether the Berliner Startup Stipendium is right for them

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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Host or Publisher SIBB e.V.