Towards X Futures

Sustainability and Innovation in Digital Ecosystems

As part of the Rhine-Ruhr Institute of Information Systems, our Chair is dedicated to exploring the potential for sustainable futures through digital innovation (x futures).

Digital technology plays a crucial role in shaping a sustainable and resilient societies. We still have much to learn about the interplay between digital technology and transformation for a better future.

With a focus on the socio-economic aspects of digital ecosystems, we gain a deeper understanding of the relationships between digital innovators and entrepreneurs, data, and knowledge as drivers of change. 

Digital Ecosystems encompass all relevant stakeholders in innovation platforms (e.g., iOS, Play Store, ChatGPT), transaction platforms (e.g., Otto, Zalando, Amazon). 

We guide individuals and organizations within such ecosystems to positioning themselves for  "x futures".

Join us on our journey Towards X Futures.

Essen

Address:

Chair for Sustainability and Innovation in Digital Ecosystems
Faculty of Computer Science
UNIVERSITY OF DUISBURG-ESSEN
R09 R04
Universitätsstr. 2, 45141 Essen

Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/XXphcJyLcu37Jq6fA 

Duisburg

Franz-Haniel-Platz 1
47119 Duisburg

Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/kimZLwGuXiSTpoN79 

 Thu, 30. Oct 2025

Strengthening Collaboration Between European University Alliances

A strategic meeting took place on 24 October at The Place Beyond Bytes Startup Incubator, led by Professor Dr. Hannes Rothe, bringing together representatives from two leading European university alliances to explore new avenues...
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 Thu, 30. Oct 2025

Entrepreneurial Digital Resilience in War: Lessons from Ukrainian SMEs

New publication at HICSS Conference by A. Komysheva, Prof. L. Wessel and Prof. H. Rothe.
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 Wed, 29. Oct 2025

"Class of Tomorrow": BRYCK STARTUP ALLIANCE Launch Signals a Deep Tech Future for the Ruhr Region

The Ruhr region is rapidly transforming its identity, shifting from its historic foundation in steel to become a powerful Startup Factory for deep tech.
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 Tue, 28. Oct 2025

Apply Now! Join the Digital Startup Camp for Summer 2026

We invite ambitious Bachelor and Master students to apply for the "Digital Startup Camp" in Summer 2026.
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 Fri, 24. Oct 2025

New Course: Digital Ideation and Entrepreneurial Design (DiEd) – formerly Sustainable Digital Entrepreneurship

The Master-level course has been updated: it will now be offered under the title “Digital Ideation and Entrepreneurial Design (DiEd)”, replacing the previous course “Sustainable Digital Entrepreneurship” for IS students. This...
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 Wed, 03. Sept 2025

EJIS Special Issue: The future of creating and distributing value in digital health ecosystems

New Special Issue edited by Prof. Rothe, Wessel, Reuter-Oppermann, Ologeanu-Taddei, Jarvenpaa; Deadline Nov 30, 2026
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 Wed, 13. Aug 2025

UDE receives funding from Start-up Center.NRW

News program incoming: Starting ventures with AI & building products on AI
How can entrepreneurship at universities be digitally redesigned and accelerated through artificial intelligence? The University of Duisburg-Essen is stepping up to provide a forward-looking answer with its SMART GUIDE...
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