March 5th marked a special moment: The participants of the Innovation Course of Wissensregion Düsseldorf presented their groundbreaking ideas to an audience from academia, business, and the start-up scene. The event, hosted at FOM Düsseldorf, not only showcased exciting entrepreneurial projects but also fostered valuable exchange and new networking opportunities.
Following a warm welcome and an introduction to the course by Prof. Dr. Friebe, the participants took the stage to present their concepts. Their projects were as diverse as their academic backgrounds: from new digital approaches to psychotherapeutic diagnostics to innovative ways of storytelling and technological solutions that challenge existing markets. The participants impressed not only with their creative ideas but also with their strategic thinking and the courage to break new ground.
A defining moment: This course was not just about developing ideas – it was about planting the seed of innovation. Participants learned that having a strong vision is not enough – the first step toward implementation often begins with a simple yet powerful realization: “I can do this!”
From Idea to Innovation: An Overview of the Projects
Through interactive sessions and valuable expert feedback, participants refined their concepts. The result: creative and forward-thinking solutions for today’s challenges.
Here’s a glimpse into some of the projects:
✅ Reimagining the magic of storytelling – a flexible and sustainable solution to integrate shared storytelling into modern family life.
✅ New perspectives for tablets – digital innovations that take mobile device usage to the next level.
✅ Rethinking access to investments – smart technologies enabling broader participation in lucrative investment opportunities.
✅ Digital support for mental health – innovative platform solutions that simplify access to professional help.
✅ New approaches in women’s health – digital solutions that help identify and address specific health issues more effectively.
✅ Smart decision-making assistance – new digital approaches that enable users to process information more consciously and make informed decisions.
✅ Flexible shopping solutions – future-oriented concepts that provide more efficient access to products—exactly where people need them.
Networking and Valuable Connections
Following the official certificate ceremony and a group photo, attendees had the opportunity to engage with students and the course instructor over drinks and snacks. Particularly valuable was the exchange with experts from business development and start-up support units, who provided insights and potential support opportunities for the aspiring founders.
Key Takeaways from the Course
The Innovation Course once again demonstrated that a strong idea alone is not enough – access to the right networks and supporters is crucial for success. This is precisely where Wissensregion Düsseldorf comes in: building bridges between academia, business, and start-up support, while connecting talent with the right resources.
A major highlight was the presence of the start-up units from Hochschule Düsseldorf (Gründungszeit) and Heinrich Heine University (CEDUS). Their participation helped lay the foundation for future collaborations with great potential for joint projects within Wissensregion Düsseldorf.
From Idea to Implementation: The Next Step Begins Now
With the mindset “Purpose over problem over solution,” participants proved that they not only analyze challenges but also transform them into real opportunities.
A special thank you goes to Prof. Friebe for his inspiring course leadership and to everyone involved in guiding this innovation process. We look forward to the next wave of exciting innovation projects! 🚀
📢 Stay tuned – the next Innovation Course is just around the corner!
