![[Translate to English:] Wissenschaftler*innen unterhalten sich während eines Workshops im RUB-Makerspace](/fileadmin/user_upload/Donna-Blitz_Worldfactory_Business_Developer-20260048.jpg "[Translate to English:] Business Developer Workshop")
Our Business Developer workshop program supports STEM researchers at Ruhr University Bochum (RUB) in transforming their research findings, expertise, and infrastructure into concrete, market-oriented technology transfer opportunities.
At the heart of Business Developer lies the question of how scientific knowledge can be turned into social or economic benefits. Based on your research, we will work together to develop offerings with practical application potential in the form of training programs, services, licenses, or infrastructure services. Are you ready to make an impact?
APPLICATION
Batch #2 starts in Autumn 2026! Applications are open until August 21, 2026. To apply, please send an email including a brief description of the project (1), key stakeholders, if applicable (2), the current stage of development/maturity (e.g. idea stage, laboratory prototype/pilot application, functional prototype/pilot application in use, etc.) (3), and the research area/field of the development (4).
LOCATION
All workshops as well as the closing event will take place at the WORLDFACTORY in the RUB Makerspace (O-Werk).
![[Translate to English:] Im RUB-Makerspace](/fileadmin/user_upload/Donna-Blitz_Worldfactory_Business_Developer-20260002.jpg "[Translate to English:] RUB-Makerspace")
- A 5-day workshop program with 5 practical modules
- Professional guidance from experts in technology transfer
- Strengthening your academic profile and impact
- Support with market analysis and product creation
- Structured development instead of individual decisions
- Legally compliant application within the university
Business Developer Overview (PDF) and Info-Flyer (PDF)
Is there a fee to participate in the Business Developer Program?
- No, the Business Developer Program is completely free of charge.
Who is eligible to apply?
This opportunity is open to experienced researchers and staff at Ruhr University Bochum who...
- wish to put their research findings into practice,
- wish to organize technology transfer or innovation projects,
- wish to expand their current activities through the provision of services, or
- have developed methods, software, or hardware that could be licensed.
How does the application process work?
Applications for Batch #2 are open until August 21, 2026. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis to assess their fit for the program. Applicants will be notified whether they have been selected to participate in the current batch. Projects will be evaluated based on the following criteria:
- Maturity of the project's current stage of development
- Feasibility and realistic implementation prospects
- Potential for positive social and environmental impact
What does the Business Developer Program entail?
Your path to a market-ready product in five steps:
I – Think Tank: Explore Opportunities
Together, we identify potential application areas and develop promising service or product ideas.
II – Market Exploration
We analyze the market, identify customer needs, and define your target audience.
III – Customer Validation
We take a closer look at your target customers and validate your value proposition.
IV – Business Case
We develop a sustainable business model and create a financially viable offering.
V – Outreach & Visibility
We support you in communicating your offering and building relationships with external partners.
How long does the program last, and when do the sessions take place?
The workshop program runs for a total of 12 weeks. The workshops last between 0.5 and 1.5 days. There is plenty of time between sessions to work on your business ideas and put what you’ve learned into practice right away.
Where are the workshops being held?
All workshops and the closing event will take place at the WORLDFACTORY Makerspace (O-Werk).
Can I apply again if I wasn't selected the first time?
Yes, you can reapply at any time. You can apply again—either on your own or with your project partners—for the next round, even if you weren’t selected the first time.
Here's what our participants from Batch #1 have to say
„Highly beneficial“
“Participating in the program has sharpened my awareness that university research projects can give rise to concrete business models. I had rarely encountered this entrepreneurial perspective in an academic context before, and it has significantly broadened my strategic thinking. Particularly valuable for me was the opportunity to engage intensively and purposefully with my own ideas over an extended period of time, guided by someone with proven practical expertise in the field of [innovation management and the application of research results]. I would recommend the program to all researchers, as I believe it is highly beneficial to adopt this perspective early on and to do so consciously." (Translated into English by WORLDFACTORY)
– Dr. Sophie Berretta
„Methodological toolkit“
“The Business Developer Program at Ruhr University Bochum provides a methodological toolkit for systematically translating academic expertise into practical applications. Through hands-on workshops, participants can make their ideas market-ready!” (Transalted into English by WORLDFACTORY)
– Dr. Tobias Grimm