Project Period: May 2020–October 2024
Funding Program: EXIST-Potentiale – Focus on “Regional Networking”
With the project “Smart Entrepreneurship in Rural Areas” Anhalt University of Applied Sciences aims to strengthen startup activities in structurally disadvantaged regions and create sustainable networks for academic startups. The focus is on establishing efficient, digitally connected startup ecosystems designed to offer founders in rural areas the same opportunities as those in urban centers.
The project is part of the “EXIST-Potentiale” funding program of the Federal Ministry for Economics and Climate Action and focuses on the priority area “Regional Networking”. In doing so, it addresses the specific needs of the funded region and actively contributes to overcoming regional challenges with innovative solutions.
Goal and Mission
Our goal is to transform an economically disadvantaged region into a high-performing, competitive innovation hub. Through targeted support for founders, the networking of relevant stakeholders, and the development of digital infrastructure, the region aims to achieve founder rates on par with those of metropolitan regions in the long term.
Action Area 1: Establishing a Regional Startup Network
In the first area of action, a comprehensive startup network will be created that connects stakeholders from Economics, academia, politics, and civil society. Anhalt University of Applied Sciences will coordinate these efforts and foster the development of a vibrant community.
A central element is the virtual networking platform, which bridges geographical distances and provides members with access to relevant information, support services, and opportunities for exchange. This will create a sustainable digital infrastructure for startup support in the region.
Action Area 2: Development of the Regional Startup Ecosystem
The second area of focus brings together the network’s activities to specifically strengthen the regional startup ecosystem. New structures and event formats are developed, tested, and implemented following a successful pilot phase.
This creates a sustainable, innovation-friendly environment that offers founders optimal long-term conditions for bringing their ideas to life— smart, connected, and forward-looking.
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