Since 2018, the BMBF has been supporting the establishment of start-up centres at UAS via StartUpLab@FH funding. This funding includes support for start-up teams, so-called Kickstart teams, who can test and further develop their product ideas within the StartUpLabs. Now the first Kickstart teams are causing a stir with their ideas and products by collecting prizes and funding.

The Kickstart teams already had a chance to prove their potential at the BMBF Future Conference 2022 in Leipzig, with 13 teams competing against each other. A jury of experts selected the six best teams, from which the audience at the conference then chose their favourites after a pitch. Three first and three second prizes were awarded.

First prize winners

FreeDeWaTER: This system can be used to convert seawater or contaminated water into drinking water and thus combat water shortages in arid regions. The technology is based on freeze crystallisation.

Omegga: The team has developed a non-invasive method for sexing chicken eggs at an early stage. This technology can prevent male chicks from hatching and then being killed.

Accessories for bottle cleaning: The team is addressing the problem that bottles are often insufficiently cleaned in the dishwasher. The accessories presented at the conference are intended to help thoroughly remove fungi, bacteria, and pathogens.

Second prize winners

EvoLeaf: The team has developed a digital sensor rod that allows people to monitor the care status of their houseplants. The stick is inserted into the potting soil and provides information on the plant's water or light requirements.

SmartZavod: The team has developed what it claims is the world's first fully automated hybrid 3D printer. It is able to process up to 30 different materials and enables printing, milling, and laser cutting in a single device.

STUDDY: STUDDY is a networking app for students that helps them form tutoring or learning groups. Thus, the STUDDY team aims to reduce dropout rates at colleges and universities.

However, some of the Kickstart teams can also boast successes in other competitions: The SmartZavod team from Hof University of Applied Sciences, who were among the runners-up in Leipzig, have recently acquired an EXIST start-up grant for their development of a multifunctional 3D printer and will thus receive funding of 125,000 euros.  

The “Career Captain” team from the Deggendorf Institute of Technology was not among the winning teams in Leipzig but did raise additional funds in the “AI Cup”: In this competition, organized by a Bavarian-French initiative to promote the founding of innovative AI start-ups, the Deggendorf team won a grant for their idea of an AI-based recruiting tool. The Career Captain is intended to help potential apprentices decide on the right training occupation so that companies can fill their apprentice positions more successfully.