23.06.2026 · O-WERK BOCHUM

Innovate for a better tomorrow

IDEA.2026 – Innovate a better tomorrow.

IDEA.2026 on June 23rd 2026 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 of Ruhr University Bochum, is currently awarded as top ten university for entrepreneurship in Germany, and exchange ideas with the players in the start-up ecosystem.

Experience research-based innovation & discover the start-up ecosystem of the Ruhr University Bochum

IDEA.2026 brings together students and scientist, future founders and startups, aspiring entrepreneurs, young and established companies, and investors: we want to create a perfect place to exchange ideas, insights, and experiences! Everyone from the regional ecosystem is invited. Participation is free of charge.


Register now and become part of this event and maybe bring in your IDEA in our workshops and community.

Pre-Events on 14th May 2025

Workshop for EXIST Women Scholarships

Masterclass –
When is my start-up investor ready? 

By Lutz Lambert (Project Manager in the Equity Financing division of NRW.BANK), Judith Mertens (Project Manager in the Equity Financing division of NRW.BANK)

In this Masterclass, we talk about the challenges involved, what it means to be investor ready and how to properly prepare for meeting investors.

For further information contact Janwillem Huda (janwillem.huda@ruhr-uni-bochum.de).

WORLDFACTORY Venture Dinner (invite only)

The Worldfactory Venture Dinner is an exclusive annual networking event that brings together future founders, startups and investors. It provides a unique platform for promising entrepreneurs to pitch their ideas, connect with potential partners, and gain valuable insights from experienced professionals.

The evening is filled with inspiring discussions and a vibrant exchange of ideas – this year all in a dinner setting at O-Werk.

RUB Makerspace Community-Event – Snacks, Sounds & Stories!

On May 14, 2025, from 5 PM to 10 PM, we warmly invite you to our Makerspace Community-Event! 🥳

Look forward to a relaxed evening with delicious snacks & drinks, interactive activities, DJ sounds, and most importantly: lots of great conversations and inspiring exchanges with fellow makers. Whether you’ve been part of the community for a long time or are new to it – we will celebrate what connects us: Creativity, Curiosity, and Collaboration. Come by – we’re looking forward to seeing you!

https://makerspace.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/

Supported by

We would like to thank the NRW.Bank for providing the €3,000 prize

Der Verbund innovation2business.nrw wird durch das Land Nordrhein-Westfalen gefördert, Zuwendungsgeber ist das Ministerium für Wirtschaft, Industrie, Klimaschutz und Energie

We would like to thank the German Center for Research and Innovation New York (DWIH) and our University Alliance Ruhr North America Liaison Office for providing a spot at the DWIH NY STEP USA Program in New York City”