Knowledge- and science-based entrepreneurship is pivotal for achieving a sustainable energy transition, driving innovation and practical solutions in the sector. EIZ SPARK aims to bolster the entrepreneurial mindset and culture among energy researchers and students, fostering technology- and knowledge-intensive startup initiatives. We also focus on enhancing their business knowledge and skills while helping them to address the challenges they encounter throughout the startup journey. To support these goals, we offer the following:

SPARK Inspire

A series of events, designed to inspire and to encourage energy researchers, students, and aspiring entrepreneurs to engage in entrepreneurial activities and adopt a startup-oriented mindset. These events will feature insights from energy startup founders who have successfully transitioned from the lab to the market, investors to see the value of science-based startups and other ecosystem stakeholders.

SPARK Academy

SPARK Academy aims to equip energy researchers and students at BTU with comprehensive business knowledge and skills essential for launching a startup. The academy will organize one cohort each year, offering limited seats to highly motivated scholars and students. The business training will consist of 5 half-day sessions covering key topics such as business model development, market and competitor analysis, financials, funding schemes, legal business structures, intellectual property protection, and pitching and presentation skills. Each session will be led by a professional trainer who specializes in the respective topic and can provide practical applications from the energy sector.

SPARK Mentorship

The SPARK team offers a one-on-one mentoring program for energy researchers and students interested in launching startups. This mentorship focuses on validating business ideas, developing business models, identifying funding opportunities, and writing grant applications. Experienced mentors work closely with founders to address their specific challenges, providing support throughout the entire process, from the ideation phase to the startup's launch.