Diverse, inspiring and innovative: that sums up Start-up Week at Rhein-Waal University of Applied Sciences. As in previous years, the university took part in the nationwide Start-up Week Germany, which took place from 18 to 21 November 2025.
Organised and supported by StartGlocal, the university’s central start-up and business incubation service based at the Centre for Research, Innovation and Transfer (ZFIT), a range of workshops, talks, pitches and community meet-ups provided a wide array of insights into key aspects of entrepreneurship. Students, alumni, staff and guests from the region interested in starting a business gained practical know-how, valuable inspiration and numerous opportunities to exchange ideas and further develop their own concepts.
StartGlocal was supported by professors and academic staff from the university. For example, in the online workshop ‘Reality Check: The Challenges of Marketing and Branding Your Start-up’, led by Prof. Dr Marina Gregorić, the focus was on the key building blocks of a strong brand, such as uniqueness, a clear understanding of the target audience, consistent communication and the conscious use of available resources. Under the guidance of Prof. Dr Kathrin Weidner and Dr Jessica Palka, students on the International Business Administration programme presented their business ideas in a ‘Business Idea Pitch & Poster Session’ through short presentations and an accompanying poster exhibition. They received constructive and motivational feedback from a panel of experts. The discussion that followed provided an opportunity to begin building networks and to explore ideas in greater depth.
Besan Dahboor Engel, founder and CEO of a deep-tech start-up and an astronaut candidate, captivated her audience with her inspiring talk ‘Food Infrastructure for Earth and Space’. She spoke about her journey into the start-up scene and highlighted how data-driven, climate-neutral food systems can be realised both on Earth and in space. The session offered an extraordinary insight into future technologies and bold visions.
To round off the week, a start-up community meet-up was held for students interested in setting up their own businesses. Ali Hussain, an HSRW alumnus and co-founder of an AI start-up, spoke about his own start-up journey and the challenges he faced on the path to self-employment. Adriana Boldisova, StartGlocal coordinator at HSRW, provided further insights into the university’s start-up activities and support services and moderated the event. Afterwards, the participants took advantage of the relaxed atmosphere over snacks and drinks to strike up conversations and discuss projects, experiences and potential collaborations.
“Every year, Start-up Week highlights the potential that lies within our university. The variety of formats and the direct exchange between students, alumni, academics and experts create an environment in which creative ideas can flourish,” said Dr Gerhard Heusipp, Head of ZFIT.
