Need-LedResearchReal Innovation
Join a unique program where researchers turn real-world needs into innovative solutions.
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10.09. - 17.09.25 (with weekend-break)
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Hamburg
An Innovation Program From
About The Program
The Deep Tech Innovation Sprint is a non-profit initiative that promotes innovative and sustainable business ideas and strengthens the entrepreneurial skills of researchers. The aim is to achieve a long-term change in the mindset of researchers and to arouse interest in innovation, transfer and entrepreneurship. In the long term, the aim is to increase the number of start-ups from science and thus make a positive contribution to society.
SprintStructure
Immersion & Discovery
Observe real environments, gather crucial insights.
Needs Assessment
Identify unmet needs, define key challenges.
Solution Creation & Pitch
Develop ideas, prototype, and present solutions.
Discover YourMentors
Benefit from the guidance of experienced mentors and industry experts. Our mentors bring deep expertise in innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology transfer, supporting your team throughout the sprint with valuable feedback and insights.
Prof. Jeroen Bergmannn
Professor at the University of Southern Denmark (SDU)
Timo Christian
Program Manager Future Innovators Academy at DESY
Why Join?
Interdisciplinary
Collaboration
Work with researchers from diverse fields.
Real-World
Challenges
Solve real-world problems with practical applications.
Expert
Mentorship
Gain insights from leading experts.
Networking
Opportunities
Build connections with industry leaders and peers.
What You Will Learn
Prototyping
Build and test your ideas.
Entrepreneurial Mindset
Develop a proactive approach to innovation
Networking
Connect with like-minded peers and industry experts.
YourSchedule
A deep-dive into your sprint journey - from A to Z
Kick-Off
Deep Dive: Industry Observation
Kick off the Sprint with a team welcome, networking, and an introduction to the need-led innovation methodology. Over two days, immerse yourself in the real-world environment of our industrial host at Otto Dörner. Observe processes, engage with stakeholders, and gather valuable insights that will form the foundation for identifying meaningful innovation opportunities.
Wednesday, September 10, 3PM to 6PM
Thursday, September 11, 9AM – 5PM
@Otto Dörner
Needs Identification
Uncovering Needs: Problem Definition
Analyze your observations to identify unmet needs and key challenges within the host company. Collaborate in interdisciplinary teams to define the problem, clarify stakeholder requirements, and lay the groundwork for impactful solutions. Optional evening tour at DESY for further inspiration and networking.
Friday, September 12, 9AM – 5PM
Monday, September 15, 9AM – 5PM
@DESY
Solution Development
Creating Solutions: Innovation Workshop
Develop creative, need-driven solutions in focused workshop sessions. Teams work intensively to design concepts that directly address the identified challenges, leveraging expert feedback and entrepreneurial tools to maximize potential and feasibility.
Tuesday, September 16, 9AM – 5PM
@DESY
Closing
Pitch & Connect: Presenting Innovations
Present your solutions to peers, mentors, and industry partners at the Max Planck Institute and DESY Campus. Engage in networking over food and drinks, celebrate your achievements, and connect with the deep tech community to explore next steps for your ideas.
Wednesday, September 17, 9AM – 3PM
@DESY
A Program Supported By
Success Stories
"Scientists with open careers can change the gap
Science is incredible, but its full potential often stays hidden unless we transfer it into application. We shouldn't wait 50 years for ideas to surface.
BUT I knew that transfer and start-ups existed, but it always felt like something for other people - not for me.
"
Julian,
Future Innovators Alumni
Previously: Christopher Bate
Next: Christopher Bate
"From challenges to real world ventures
Future Innovators tackled my deeptech challenges and connected me with specialists from diverse disciplines. The Hightech Design Sprint prepared me at a time when I was unsure about starting a venture."
Christopher Bate,
Postdoc, MSL
Previously: Julian
Next: Julian
Ready to push the boundaries of research and innovation?
Don’t miss your chance to collaborate with leading experts, tackle real-world challenges, and turn your ideas into impactful solutions. Apply now!
APPLY NOW
Frequently Asked Questions
Who Can Apply?
Open to Master's students, advanced Bachelor's, Ph.D. candidates and anyone in the scientific community. We also welcome entrepreneurs and innovators.
Is the Sprint In English?
Yes, the whole sprint is in English.
When does the Sprint take place?
The Deep Tech Innovation Sprint runs from September 10th to 17th, 2025. The program takes place on Wednesday to Friday (September 10–12) and Monday to Wednesday (September 15–17). All activities are scheduled on weekdays, so you’ll have the weekend free.
Can I Join Sessions Digitally?
No, the program is entirely on premise at Otto Dörner and at the DESY campus. Virtual attendance is not possible.
Contact Person
Timo Christian
Program Manager for the DESY Innovation and Technology Transfer Academy "Future Innovators"
