We invite ambitious Bachelor and Master students to apply for the "Digital Startup Camp" in Summer 2026.

The Chair for Sustainability and Innovation in Digital Ecosystems (SUST) invites ambitious Bachelor and Master students to apply for the intensive Digital Startup Camp in Summer 2026. This unique block event is designed to immerse you in the entrepreneurial world, testing your "startup suitability" and developing essential soft skills.

This is more than just a course—it's an opportunity to step away from the daily university routine and dive into the integrative generation and implementation of innovative startup ideas within student teams. You will experience a simulated startup environment, culminating in a critical presentation to a potential investor.

Key Learning Areas

During our startup camp, you will explore crucial aspects of launching a digital venture, putting theoretical knowledge into practice and developing structured solutions to complex business problems:

Ideation and Presentation: Mastering presentation techniques for idea pitching.

Team Building: Forming and developing a cohesive team for idea implementation.

Business Planning: Covering Marketing, Strategy, Financial Planning, and more.

Funding: Learning about necessary support and funding measures.

Additionally, all participating students will take part in the Startup Olympics (expected to be held on a weekend in April).

ECTS and Course Formalities

Key Organizational Details:

Team Size: 2 to a maximum of 4 people.

Locations: Place Beyond Bytes (Duisburg-Ruhrort or Essen Campus) & Bryck Tower (Essen).

Introductory Meeting: Expected to take place at the end of February/beginning of March 2026. The exact date will be communicated after successful application.

How to Apply

The course is open to students in the Bachelor programs of BWL, VWL, and Wirtschaftsinformatik. 

The prerequisites depend on your specific study regulations, so please check your module handbook and examination regulations for necessary requirements (especially the minimum required ECTS).

Application Deadline: February 15, 2026

Apply via the Online Form:https://mailchi.mp/icb/d99uhjgpnx 

Recommendations for a Successful Application:

BWL & VWL Students: Completion of the exam "E-Business-Grundlagen" or "Digital Business" (from Summer Semester 2022) is recommended. BWL students are also recommended to pursue the "Entrepreneurship" profile.

Wirtschaftsinformatik Students: It is recommended to apply after passing the exam "E-Business-Grundlagen" or "Digital Business" (from Summer Semester 2022) and enrolling in the module "E-Entrepreneurship" or "Digital Entrepreneurship" (from Winter Semester 2021/2022).

Don't miss the chance to gain practical experience, develop your entrepreneurial mindset, and test your business skills in a dynamic, real-world simulation!