Name: How two female founders climb every day to change the world of plastics
Start: 2026-04-16T17:30:00+02:00
End: 2026-04-16T19:30:00+02:00
Location: Brandenburger Tor

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

Ask Female Founders // Finding your first customer is hard. We talk with the two founders of MAD about their step-by-step route to success.
About this Event

Finding your first customer is hard, even when many people already believe in you. Location tba

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.

💡 What You Will Learn

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

🧑‍🏫 Speakers

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.

🎯 Who Is This Event For

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