Emma launches sleep accelerator programme

The mattress start-up is looking for innovative ideas from the world of sleep. The Frankfurt-based company is launching the Sleep Innovation Accelerator and applications are open until September 15.

An idea for sleep? The start-up Emma, which has become an integral part of the world of sleep with its Emma mattresses, is launching an accelerator program and is looking for ideas relating to falling asleep, waking up and sleep quality. "Our aim with the Sleep Innovation Accelerator is to promote talented young people and encourage them to turn their ambitious ideas into reality or to found a start-up themselves," says founder Dennis Schmoltzi.

Potential founders can submit applications until September 15. The winners will not only receive a network and knowledge from the Emma company, but also up to 250,000 euros to finance their ideas. Those who apply and impress in the interview will be accepted into the Sleep Innovation Accelerator to further develop their ideas. During the program, the Emma Innovation Board meets every three months to discuss how things are progressing and where improvements still need to be made. At the end of the six-month program, the idea should have become an implemented product that will be marketed and further supported by Emma.

Emma was founded in 2013, now employs over 700 people and is active in over 30 countries. The Frankfurt-based start-up achieved record sales in 2020: Emma sold mattresses for 405 million euros, representing growth of 170 percent. Last year, Duisburg-based holding company Haniel acquired a 50.1% stake in Emma, with the remaining shares belonging to the founders Manuel Müller and Schmoltzi, who continue to manage the business.