Discover the start-up ecosystem at the Ruhr University Bochum IDEA 2025 on 15 May 2025 is all about innovation, entrepreneurship and a vibrant start-up culture. On this day, we will bring together experts, start-ups, researchers and investors and offer you the opportunity to discover the start-up ecosystem at the Ruhr University Bochum and exchange ideas with the players in the start-up scene.

Ruhr University Bochum is currently awarded as top ten university for entrepreneurship in Germany – we achieved rank 6 in the ranking.

The name IDEA is composed of the core activities and the message of the Worldfactory:

• Impact – For the region and shaping the transformation after the departure of Nokia and Opel and promoting profound technological solutions for global and societal challenges.
• Deep-Tech – As WORLDFCATORY, we stand for knowledge-based innovation and start-ups.
• Entrepreneurial – Raising the awareness of entrepreneurship and creating an entrepreneurial mindset among students and academics.
• Academic – Research and teaching as the foundation for transformative technologies.

You can expect a varied programme on the topics of deep tech, impact, entrepreneurial mindset and academics – on two stages and in two workshop rooms. Look forward to inspiring keynotes from renowned speakers, exciting panel discussions with leading minds from research and business, and workshops on current trends and challenges in entrepreneurship. Experience the science slams and start-up pitches and the WORLDFACTORY Demo Day.

Register now and be part of this event and maybe bring in your IDEA in our workshops and panels.