The Leakage Monitoring Program

Our startup program provides the ideal chance for teams developing solutions for leakage detection, monitoring, and predictive maintenance of mining water pipelines: A real-world pilot with a major industry partner - The RAG. On a timeframe of up to 6 months, you'll get the chance to test your technology in a practical setting, receive expert advice, and have a meaningful influence on the water management sector.

Validate and refine your product

with a real-world industrial environment

Apply now! Application Deadline: April 25th, 2025

What you'll get

Benefits

Real Customer & Industry Access

Financial Support: Up to €30,000

Expert Guidance: Benefit from a dedicated BRYCK Mentor

Exclusive Community & Networking: Gain access to BRYCK Community Events & Resources

Path to Scale: If your pilot succeeds, you unlock opportunities for long-term collaboration.

Program Milestones

Online Application

until April 25th, 2025
remote

Fill out the application form on our website. You’ll need to provide information about your startup and details about your solution. To apply, ensure you have your company logo and the pitch deck ready.

Application Deadline: April 25th, 2025. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so early submissions are encouraged.

Kickoff

Mid June 2025
on site

We’ll work together to define the scope of the project, success metrics, and other specific requirements. You’ll meet your BRYCK mentor as well as the RAG team you’ll work with, and the gain access to necessary data or sites.

Execution

June - December 2025
remote

Deploy your leak detection/prevention solution in a real operational setting. During this time, you will gather performance data, demonstrate your technology’s impact, and iterate with the feedback provided.

Closing Session

Mid December 2025
on site

You’ll receive detailed feedback and together we discuss next steps. If the solution proves effective, discussions for a longer-term engagement will be initiated.

Pilot Your Solution with the RAG

in an actual mining water infrastructure

Apply now! Application Deadline: April 25th, 2025

About the RAG

RAG AG (formerly Ruhrkohle AG) is a leading German company based in the city of Essen and specializing in post-mining operations and industrial water management. With decades of expertise in underground mining infrastructure, RAG manages and maintains extensive mine water systems, ensuring environmental sustainability and operational efficiency. Their vast pipeline networks, reaching depths of up to 600 meters, require advanced solutions for monitoring, leak detection, and predictive maintenance.

Water Tech from Lab to Industry

Apply Now! Application Deadline: April 25th, 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can apply to this program?

We invite any startup or early-stage company with a solution for water leakage detection, monitoring, or prevention. Both domestic (Germany/EU) and international startups can apply. We are seeking startups developing solutions that can enhance the monitoring and predictive maintenance of mining water pipelines. Ideal applicants have experience developing technologies such as:

  • AI-powered Predictive Maintenance Solutions for leak detection and anomaly detection.
  • Robotics for pipeline inspection and repair, particularly in hard-to-access areas.
  • Video Analytics and Image Processing for automated infrastructure assessment.
  • Digital Twin Technology to simulate pipeline conditions and optimize maintenance strategies.
  • Advanced Sensor Technologies for real-time pipeline monitoring.
  • Or similar solutions

What is the application deadline?

Startups can apply until April 25th, 2025. We encourage early submissions, as applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

Where does the program take place?

The program is based in Essen, Germany, where startups will have access to RAG’s industrial infrastructure for real-world validation.

Does the program require equity participation?

This is a venture client program, which means our primary role is as a customer, not an investor. We do not take equity for your participation. Instead, selected startups receive financial support in the form of covered costs (up to €30K). Think of it as getting a funded project with a major client.

Are there any costs or fees for participating startups?

No. The program does not charge any fees to participating startups. In fact, we provide resources and cover some expenses.

Do we need to relocate or be on-site for the program?

We do not require full relocation. Much of the collaboration can even happen remotely. That said, certain phases might require on-site presence. Besides being on-site provides a significant advantage, as startups gain exclusive access to RAG's facilities, in Essen, Germany — real industrial environments that are otherwise inaccessible. This access allows for hands-on validation in a true operational setting, aligning with the real-lab concept of the program.

What happens after the program ends?

After the program, if your pilot demonstrated strong results, we will explore ways to continue our partnership. Even if a long-term deal isn’t immediate, you’ll come away with a proven case study, feedback to improve your product, and connections in the industry to help propel your startup forward.

Still have questions or need more details?

Visit the Water Hub subpage for additional information, reach out via our contact form or send an email to felix.schroeder@bryck.com

More Information on the Water Hub

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