"We need more courage for innovation" – Prof. Brem in conversation with the journal Forschung & Lehre

How innovative is Germany really – and where does untapped potential lie? These questions were at the heart of the conversation with Prof. Brem in the journal Forschung & Lehre. He describes an innovation system that is strong in many areas – such as research and development – but often lacks the courage to act swiftly and decisively. Excessive regulation, limited strategic direction, and a tendency to wait rather than lead are putting the country’s future viability at risk.

This becomes particularly evident in the area of technology transfer. While patents and traditional collaborations between universities and industry are functioning well, there is a lack of targeted structures and political incentives to effectively support academic startups. Existing funding programs, he argues, are often too fragmented or too slow to keep pace with the rapid development of new technologies.

Prof. Brem therefore calls for a cultural shift, more pragmatism, and a clear innovation strategy – one that not only focuses on high-tech sectors but also recognizes the potential of the humanities and social sciences. In his view, innovation policy must be understood as a central task for shaping the future – and approached with the boldness it requires.

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