For the next generation of innovators

Welcome to the CDTM Application Portal

We're excited that you're considering applying to CDTM and we're looking forward to getting to know you.

We've put together this short guide to help you understand what CDTM is about and what to expect from the application process.

How to apply

Application Process

Form & Letter

This is where you introduce your background, experiences, interests, and skills.

But beyond achievements and CV points, we also want to understand who you are.

It is your chance to show personality, reflection, and motivation. There is no single right answer. The strongest essays are often the most personal, honest, and specific.

Interviews

Personal

A relaxed conversation to get to know each other better. Alumni often describe it as a "fun coffee chat." There is not much to prepare beyond being yourself.

Technical

A conversation about your projects, your creativity, and your problem-solving skills. Come well-rested and ready to talk to us about your field of interest.

Researchers, founders, policymakers, or industry experts; CDTM is for ALL innovators of tomorrow.

Hover or tap any photo for an application tip

“I'm Celine, studying medicine and currently doing research for my doctoral thesis in London where I work on understanding shared molecular mechanisms across neurodegenerative diseases. CDTM gave me the push to apply for opportunities outside of what I thought was possible for me and here I am now coding my days away in the terminal.”

Celine Röder

Spring 22 · Medicine

“I'm Richie, doing my Master's in Data Science at LMU Munich and working as an AI engineer at BCG. CDTM was the sole reason I came to Munich for my Bachelor's. I'd been researching startup clubs across the city, and when I saw the CDTM people at events and talked with them, I felt the same mindset, same energy.”

Rudraksha Samdhani

Fall 24 · MSc Data Science

“Yo-yo, I am Markus, 21 years old, and currently in my Bachelor's in Economics at LMU. I have a background in development banking and in development cooperation in Ghana. Without CDTM, I would have been on the clear path to academia.”

Markus Meinert

Spring 26 · BSc Economics

“I'm Hana, a Master's student in Consumer Science at TUM with a German-Japanese background. Outside of uni, I work part-time at a VC fund, run events and community formats, and co-host a podcast. CDTM sits right at the intersection of everything I care about: tech, people, and building things.”

Hanano Shiga

Fall 25 · MSc Consumer Science

“Hi, my name is Niko and I am a media engineer by training and an environmentalist by heart. For the past 10+ years I've been inspiring and empowering young people to fall in love with wild nature and become change makers.”

Niko Pallas

Spring 24 · MSc Human-Computer Interaction

“Hi, I'm Eli, a Worm Mom, Fermentation Experimenter, Hobby Herbalist, Wannabe Origami Master, and Board Game Enthusiast. I just finished my studies in HCI and am now working on a solution for cell quantification with friends I met at CDTM.”

Elena Herzog

Spring 25 · MSc Human-Computer Interaction

Your turn

Your journey starts here

What matters most is that you stay true to yourself and show us what genuinely drives you. The CDTM community is here to support you throughout the process, so don't hesitate to reach out.

Application FAQ

Explore community paths

Reach out

We're excited to get to know you! 🚀

Start your application