by Laurène Ramos Martins
Second edition of science entrepreneurship event brought together scientists and entrepreneurs to explore funding pathways for science-based start-ups
Summary
- Nearly 70 participants gathered for ‘From Lab to Launch 2025’ in Hamburg, focused on funding science-based start-ups.
- Organised by EMBL, EMBLEM, Hereon, and DESY, the event featured a keynote on bioeconomy innovation and a panel with deep tech founders and funders.
- Panellists shared practical advice on early-stage challenges, team building, and securing investment.
- Interactive networking formats connected participants with funding experts and start-up advisors.
On 14 May 2025, nearly 70 participants gathered at Start-up Labs Hamburg for the second edition of ‘From Lab to Launch’, an annual science entrepreneurship event. This year’s edition focused on ways to finance science-based start-ups. Jointly organised by EMBL, EMBLEM Technology Transfer GmbH (the commercial arm and exclusive technology transfer partner of EMBL), Helmholtz-Zentrum Hereon, and the DESY Start-up Office, the event brought together scientists, entrepreneurs, and innovation professionals eager to translate research into commercial success.
The day opened with a warm welcome from Christina Frehse, Head of Start-up Labs Hamburg, who provided an inspiring overview of the lab’s capabilities and highlighted the dynamic ecosystem it fosters for start-ups and innovators in the region.
Following the introduction, Wienke Reynolds, CTO and Co-founder of Lignopure and a bioprocess engineer with a PhD in biorefinery technology from TU Hamburg, delivered the keynote speech titled ‘Lignin-Based Cosmetics: Challenges of Bringing a Long-Cherished Idea from Bioeconomy Research to Life’. Reynolds shared her experience turning cutting-edge bioeconomy research into a start-up, highlighting the challenges and opportunities of commercialising sustainable materials derived from lignin, a natural component of woody biomass.
The event then moved into a panel discussion, ‘Pioneering Progress: Insights from Deep Tech Founders & Funders’, moderated by Jürgen Bauer, Deputy Managing Director of EMBLEM. The panel brought together experienced start-up founders and funders sharing candid insights.
- Rositsa Jordanova, EMBL alumna and CEO/Co-founder of Protyon, emphasised the value of institutional support and partnerships in bringing deep tech to market.
- Lukas Gaats, CEO/Co-founder of MO:RE, stressed early market understanding and the importance of building a strong, complementary team.
- Victor Izraylit, Founder of Memorthotic, offered lessons on overcoming hurdles in the pre-founding phase.
- Mika Mänz, CEO/Founder of acitoflux and deeptech investor, emphasised the importance of adaptability in entrepreneurship, highlighting that the ability to quickly adjust strategies and pivot is essential, as it helps build trust with investors.
- Thomas Wille, Innovation Manager at SPRIND, spoke about how strategic public funding can ignite bold ideas.
During the discussion, Jürgen Bauer underscored EMBLEM’s commitment to supporting scientists in their entrepreneurial journeys: “Turning scientific ideas into start-ups requires not only great research but also expert guidance on business development and fund raising. EMBLEM plays a vital role in providing such expertise to EMBL’s entrepreneurs, empowering researchers to translate their discoveries into impactful innovations.”
The highlight of the event was the interactive networking session, featuring two formats: a fast-paced Speed Dating room and a more in-depth Slow Dating room. Both were designed to connect participants with a diverse range of funding and startup experts – from early-stage investors and public funding agencies to start-up advisors and tech transfer professionals. This dynamic setup enabled scientists and entrepreneurs at various stages of their journey to receive personalised advice, explore financing strategies, and build meaningful connections. Many praised these sessions for their practicality and impact. One participant noted, “In just minutes, I received practical guidance that would have taken me months to find on my own.”
The day concluded with closing remarks and an informal BBQ, fostering further conversation and community building among attendees.
The ‘From Lab to Launch’ event continues to be a cornerstone for the local scientific and entrepreneurial community. By providing access to expert knowledge, funding insights, and meaningful networking, it inspires and equips the next generation of science-driven entrepreneurs to turn their ideas into successful ventures.