The summit’s guiding question challenged speakers and audiences alike: What walls remain to be torn down, and how can we do it? One response, in particular, breathed new life into the debate: “Bring back common sense.” This simple yet striking call revealed a deeper issue within the world of innovation.
Research Meets Business – Rarely a Seamless Union
This year’s Falling Walls Venture category showcased a fierce spirit of entrepreneurship. Promising start-ups like ARQUE Systems—a quantum computing spin-off from RWTH Aachen University and Forschungszentrum Jülich—took to the stage, pitching their ideas to a packed room. Interest ran so high that the pitches were soon broadcast on screens outside to accommodate the overflow audience. Reverse pitches from venture capitalists saw similar levels of enthusiasm, underscoring an appetite for innovation that’s palpable.
However, while the drive is clearly there, it’s often the execution that falters. Why? In Germany, especially in research, we have a knack for drowning great ideas in layers of red tape. Pragmatism is scarce, and the broader culture rewards experimentation within labs, while innovations beyond those walls often face obstacles rather than encouragement.
Structural Challenges: A Key to Unlocking Innovation
Speakers at the summit—including Michiel Scheffer (EIC), Robbert Dijkgraaf (Dutch Minister of Science), Rafael Laguna de la Vera (SPRIN-D), and Gesa Miczaika (Auxxo Female Catalyst Fund)—highlighted that the root issues are structural and mental. When the journey from research to real-world application is long and unclear, critical opportunities slip away.
Europe has immense potential in fields like generative AI, quantum technology, and sustainable energy. Yet, the current structure often values theoretical work and publications over practical applications. Excessive formalism can stifle development, while a lack of openness to failure and risk-taking holds back progress.
What Fuels Real Innovation?
At Forschungszentrum Jülich, we’re committed to dismantling these barriers by embedding both fundamental research and innovation in our mission. With initiatives like JUICE, we cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset in young scientists, and our InnoSuper program equips scientific leaders and supervisors to identify and champion transfer opportunities. We’re also simplifying IP licensing and introducing a fast-track process while deliberately promoting strategic partnerships with companies.
Through events like Addventure Night, we’re opening doors to businesses looking to connect directly with Jülich scientists. The aim is clear: simplify processes, foster collaboration, and open new perspectives—driving innovation forward with speed and boldness.
„We’re venturing forward!“ – Venture Building at Forschungszentrum Jülich
The Takeaway: Innovation Needs Freedom
“Bring back common sense” means applying bureaucracy where it truly matters and adds value. It calls for pragmatism, a readiness to innovate, and the courage to take risks. The summit underscored that science, business, and investors are eager to join forces, and the challenge lies in giving them the freedom to break barriers and bring tangible benefits to society.
What’s Your Take?
Which barriers do you believe we need to break down to translate research into impactful innovation?
Stay Updated
Subscribe to our newsletter to receive the latest updates and event invitations from Forschungszentrum Jülich’s Innovation and Transfer activities directly in your inbox.
No Comments
Be the first to start a conversation