What kind of documents are required to be submitted?

To participate a completed application form and a concept paper of up to two pages (PDF, DIN A4, font size 11, simple line spacing) of a research-based product or business idea must be submitted. The paper should include the following aspects:

Affiliated person(s)

Please briefly describe the persons involved as well as their positions.

Connection to research
Describe the connection between your idea and the research of your university / research institution.

Idea and product innovation

Describe your idea and the product innovation and, if necessary, the technology.

Customer Value and market

Please indicate the potential benefits of potential customers. If possible, also describe in which specific market (e.g. FinTech, software industry, health technology, education) you could be active with your project.

Practicability

Please provide a brief overview of the practicability of your idea: Where can development and research risks arise? What is needed for a transition into the market?

Testimonials

“The Research to Market Challenge was a fantastic team-building activity for us and an excellent networking opportunity. Meeting like-minded people and interacting with advisors really encouraged us in our idea and motivated us to keep pursuing it. Pitching in front of our peers and potential investors was also a lot of fun and the overall experience was really rewarding.”

Sofia Pazzagli, Team Photonic 3D Printer, winner 2022

"The Research to Market Challenge was super helpful for us to further elaborate the idea for Creatext and thus prepare our EXIST application. The final event was a great way to practice our pitch in front of an audience and was totally fun."

Lukas Kemkes, Team Creatext, 2019 participant

"Participating in the Research to Market Challenge was not only an exciting experience, but also a great platform to exchange ideas with peers and advisors. Our win encouraged us in our idea and actually motivated us to take the step to start up. Taking part was more than worth it!"

Dr. Laura Schüller, Team Veteducators, winner 2018

"Participating in the Challenge didn't win us the prize, but it has been a great kick-start. I was motivated to think about how to turn an idea you have in your head into a structured and implementable concept. It helps you broaden the possibility space and shows you that you can definitely make it from university and theory with what makes you tick to a provider of a new product or service."

Aileen Moeck, Team The Future Builders, participant 2017

"The Research to Market Challenge was an important step in pushing the concept of Dearemployee further. Not only the prize money was important for us in the initial phase, but also the feedback and positive response from investors and potential customers was very helpful!"

Dr. Amelie Wiedemann, Team Dearemployee, award Winner 2016