Business meets science at the University of Würzburg

How do successful start-ups emerge from science? And what framework conditions are needed to ensure that innovative business models can survive even in challenging times?

These questions are the focus of this year's "Business meets science" event, which is being organised by the Faculty of Management and Economics at Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg (JMU) together with the Würzburg-Schweinfurt Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK). Under the guiding theme of "Innovation and the future in Mainfranken: start-up and entrepreneurial spirit", the format brings together science, business and the start-up scene.

The event will take place on Thursday, 23 April 2026, at 6 p.m. in the Audimax of the New University building and offers a platform for exchange between researchers, companies, people interested in founding a company and regional players. The event is open to all interested parties. Registration is requested. The event will be held in German.

Würzburg: an attractive location for start-ups

JMU has provided a strong foundation for entrepreneurial thinking and action for many years. Research, teaching and practical formats intertwine and create an environment in which start-up ideas can emerge and be further developed. Numerous start-ups have their origins here - proof of the university's growing importance as a driving force for innovation in the region.

At the same time, Würzburg has developed into an attractive location for start-ups. In addition to scientific expertise, young companies benefit from a wide range of funding opportunities, an active network and short distances between science, business and institutions. This close interaction helps to ensure that innovative business models not only emerge, but can also hold their own on the market in the long term.

The programme

The event will address these topics from different perspectives. After a welcome address by Professor Anja Schlömerkemper, JMU Vice President for Equal Opportunities, Career Planning and Sustainability, and Dr. Stefan Möhringer, Vice President of the Würzburg-Schweinfurt Chamber of Industry and Commerce, Professor Jana-Kristin Prigge and Professor Axel Winkelmann will provide insights into the question of how research results find their way into marketable innovations.

Afterwards, young start-up teams will present their ideas in start-up pitches and show examples of how the entrepreneurial spirit from the university takes concrete shape. Dr. Joachim Kuhn, founder and former CEO of va-Q-tec, will also offer a practical look at entrepreneurial development paths, sharing his experiences from scientific idea to listed company.

An open Q&A session followed by a standing reception in the atrium of the New University will provide space for exchange, discussion and networking between participants from science, business and the start-up scene.

"Business Meets Science" thus emphasises the central role of the University of Würzburg as a driver of innovation and transfer in Main-Franconia - and shows how ideas can lead to sustainable entrepreneurial success.

Further information on the event and a registration form can be found here.