When: 7. – 10. September 2026

Where: Darmstadt & Frankfurt

Who: Young researchers (Master’s, PhD, or Post-Doc) with a background in biology, chemistry, physics, synthetic biology, biochemistry, materials science, engineering and economy.

The Futury Summer School will open on 7. and 8. September with a symposium at the TU Darmstadt, to which all interested parties are invited.

The Futury Summer School is designed for researchers who want to explore the entrepreneurial potential of their work and transform innovative ideas into viable business concepts. The goal is to develop a compelling Start-Up idea and create a professional pitch deck that could serve as the foundation for a future venture.

In the Start-Up world, even the most promising technology needs a strong story. To attract investors, partners, and early customers, entrepreneurs must demonstrate not only technical excellence but also commercial potential, market relevance, and scalability. A convincing pitch is often the key to turning an idea into reality.

During the first two days, participants will gain insights from renowned researchers, successful entrepreneurs, and innovation experts. Through interactive sessions and workshops, they will identify opportunities, explore market needs, and generate their own Start-Up ideas.

Following the idea selection process, participants will be matched into interdisciplinary teams.

On days three and four the teams will work intensively on refining their concepts with the support of a dedicated coaching and mentoring team. Together, they will develop their value proposition, explore customer needs and market opportunities, define a business model, and create a professional investor-style pitch deck.

The Summer School culminates in a Final Pitch Event, where teams present their Start-Up concepts to an expert jury. This is an opportunity to showcase your vision, receive valuable feedback, expand your network and take the first steps toward launching a real Start-Up.

What You Will Gain

• Hands-on experience in startup creation and entrepreneurship
• Development of a business idea based on scientific research
• Insights into innovation, business models, and commercialization
• Team-building and collaboration skills in an entrepreneurial environment
• A professional pitch deck suitable for investors and funding applications
• Networking opportunities with founders, researchers, and innovation experts
• A certificate of participation

Join us and discover how your research can create real-world impact. Your next breakthrough could become the next successful startup.

Day 1

Inspiration & Research Excellence

Scientific talks by leading researchers presenting cutting-edge technologies, breakthrough discoveries, and emerging innovation opportunities.

Day 2

Entrepreneurship & Networking

Meet industry representatives, founders, investors, and start-ups. Explore market needs, identify promising opportunities, and find potential teammates and idea partners.

Day 3

Business Development & Coaching

Transform your idea into a viable venture. Work with experienced coaches on value proposition design, business models, market analysis, and commercialization strategies.

Day 4

Pitch Day & Award Ceremony

Present your startup concept and pitch deck to an expert jury. Receive feedback from entrepreneurs and innovation professionals, compete for awards, and celebrate your achievements.