Innovation Award

The economist Joseph Schumpeter (1883-1950) defined innovation as the successful implementation of a technical or organizational novelty, rather than merely its invention.

Scientific institutions play a crucial role in fostering innovation by generating knowledge through excellent education and research, laying the groundwork for addressing socially relevant questions of the future. Their contributions initiate innovation processes and develop solutions. Innovations generally take years to emerge after research findings are transferred to the market (either through existing companies or through spin-offs) and have become established in the market. 

RWTH Aachen's vision is to develop a unique innovation ecosystem that provides societal value. The Innovation Award recognizes individuals actively contributing to this vision, advancing from ideas to innovative solutions. These solutions can include technologies, processes, products, inventions, or software.

The award is given to people who have developed their idea while working at RWTH Aachen University, Uniklinik RWTH Aachen or Forschungszentrum Jülich.

The ideas are evaluated in a two-stage evaluation process according to the innovation level of the technology, the social relevance of the technology field or application area, the technological readiness level, the market readiness level, and the market potential. The three best ideas are honored at a ceremony during the annual "RWTHtransparent" and awarded cash prizes.

The winners of the past years can be found here: 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014.

Apply now for the Innovation Award 2024!

Submission Deadline: 01 December 2024