How do research findings and good ideas turn into concrete innovations? And how does one successfully navigate the path to entrepreneurship? These are the questions that will be addressed at the 2nd Start-up Day 2026 at Anhalt University of Applied Sciences. On November 17, 2026, the university will bring together students, researchers, aspiring entrepreneurs, and regional partners. The goal is to strengthen the transfer of knowledge from academia to the business world. The event will take place from 10:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Roemer-Haus on the Strenzfeld Campus in Bernburg. Members of the press are welcome to attend starting at 1:00 p.m.
To kick off the event at 10:30 a.m., Professor Markus Holz, Vice-President for Research, Transfer and Sustainability at Anhalt University of Applied Sciences, will welcome the guests. In the subsequent keynote address, “Understanding AI: Recognizing Its Benefits,” Stefan Müller from West Saxon University of Applied Sciences in Zwickau will demonstrate how artificial intelligence can drive new ideas and startup initiatives.
Anhalt University of Applied Sciences Awards Two Startup Grants
In the afternoon, Anhalt University of Applied Sciences will award two startup grants, each in the amount of 2,400 euros. With these grants, the university supports aspiring entrepreneurs on their path to self-employment. Starting at 1:00 p.m., Johannes Schöllhorn-Spandau from Anhalt University of Applied Sciences, Christian Ballerstedt from the Investment Bank of Saxony-Anhalt, Julia Grünthal from BASA Business Angels Saxony-Anhalt, and Pierre Tangermann from PerioTrap Pharmaceuticals GmbH will discuss how to finance business ideas in a session titled “From Idea to Investment.”
Startup Counter Invites You to Network
Starting at 2:00 p.m., the “Kleine Gründertheke” will offer an opportunity to learn about regional contact points and support services. Participants include the Halle-Dessau Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IHK), the Saxony-Anhalt Investment Bank, the Bernburg City Economic Development Agency, the marketing agency Omazing, and the Center for Research, Transfer and Entrepreneurship (FTGZ) at Anhalt University of Applied Sciences.
“With Start-up Day, we want to show what opportunities can arise from research and innovation. To achieve this, it’s important to connect people at our university with the right contacts from the regional startup ecosystem at an early stage,” said Professor Markus Holz.
