1. What experience have you gained in recent years as a mentor for university spin-offs?
In recent years, I have had a lot of contact as a mentor with young people who wanted to pave their career path. As part of my research, I am well networked with industry partners and always find the direct exchange with industry exciting. As a young person, you don't have so many obligations yet and can concentrate fully on the start-up in the first few years. There is no better time than during or shortly after your studies. I look forward to accompanying and supporting young people on this path.
2. What factors do you think are promising in terms of success for start-ups, especially in a university context?
A large number of start-ups are the result of dissertations. This has the advantage that you are already very familiar with the topic and can build on it. It is also important that the start-up has a unique selling point and that the market is large enough. In addition, how much capital you need to get started and how long it will take to sell the product depends heavily on the product. You should think about this in advance.
3. What three tips and tricks can you give teams who are interested in setting up a business?
I would recommend that teams exchange ideas with teams that have already been successful and talk to mentors about current challenges. "Learning by doing" is an important aspect of growing into the role of an entrepreneur. However, it is better not to make all the "initial mistakes" yourself.
The first few years as a start-up are very stressful. You should be aware of this when planning your personal life.
When putting together the team, it is important to ensure that different personalities and skills are represented in the team. Mixed teams are generally more successful.
Contact

Hanna Dewes
Research Associate