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 

 Tue, 28. Apr 2026

€1.6 Million for AI at the NiederRhein: UDE is bringing Artificial Intelligence to small and medium-sized enterprises.

With around €1.6 million in EU and state funding, the joint project "KI für KMU NiederRhein" aims to give small and medium-sized enterprises in the NiederRhein region practical access to Artificial Intelligence. Regional...
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 Tue, 31. Mar 2026

The KI für KMU NiederRhein programme

Developed by the University of Duisburg-Essen, Hochschule Rhein-Waal, Duisburg Business & Innovation GmbH, HAN University of Applied Sciences, Wirtschaftsförderung Kreis Kleve, and Kreis Wesel, the programme offers SMEs a...
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 Fri, 06. Feb 2026

Explore how Artificial Intelligence can shape sustainable, responsible, and ethical futures.

As we approach the Summer Semester 2026, we are promoting the course “Towards Sustainable Futures with AI”, which critically examines Artificial Intelligence as a transformative and generative technology with far-reaching...
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 Wed, 04. Feb 2026

Breaking the "Unicorn-or-Bust" Narrative

Anna Pröpper Successfully Defends Dissertation on the "Startup Zoo"
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 Tue, 03. Feb 2026

Startup Wanted: Work with Students on Your Strategy & Growth in our Moonshot Design Class

Are you an early-stage or innovation-driven startup looking for fresh perspectives, structured strategic thinking, and hands-on support for your next growth steps? In our Disruptive Innovation & Moonshot Design class at the...
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