KIT Innovators Homecoming 2025 - a reunion full of inspiration
04.02.2025
Emma Schmitt
Event
The second KIT Innovators Homecoming, themed “Merging Generations,” took place on January 30, 2025, and brought together over 450 KIT alumni from the startup community. Our former students have written impressive success stories and have the potential to achieve even greater things together. By sharing knowledge and resources, we can further strengthen startups, drive innovation, and create an ecosystem that will also benefit future generations of founders.
An inspiring prelude to the program
KIT President Jan S. Hesthaven and Thomas Neumann, head of the KIT-Gründerschmiede, opened the KIT Innovators Homecoming 2025 with inspiring words. Both emphasized the importance of the KIT start-up community and the central role that the network plays in promoting innovation.
A special highlight was the premiere of the new image film of the NXTGN network. With this network, the KIT, together with its partners from science and industry, is applying to the German government’s flagship competition as a startup factory – a decisive step towards strengthening the German innovation landscape.
Keynotes from top speakers and exciting discussions
In addition to the opening, high-profile speakers provided valuable insights. In captivating keynotes, Holger Tumat, Andreas Helbig, Daniela Bechtold and Dr. Mariana Bozesan shared their experiences and visions for the future.
Another highlight was the panel “Future of Energy & Mobility – Full Speed Ahead”, in which Andreas Stryz, Simona Rossetti, Crispin Leick and Sandra Kauffmann-Weiß passionately discussed the future of these key industries. The session was moderated in a confident and personable manner by Corinna Jahn.
A showcase for innovations: the startup exhibition
Running alongside the main program, 22 KIT startups presented themselves in the startup exhibition. Here, visitors were able to experience first-hand the innovative solutions with which young companies are shaping the future. From sustainable energy and mobility concepts to digital technologies – the diversity and creativity of the KIT founders was impressive.
Networking in a relaxed atmosphere
In addition to the professional highlights, the event also offered plenty of opportunities for exchange and networking. The casual class reunion atmosphere made it possible to make new contacts and deepen existing relationships. Representatives from startups, investors, companies, KIT members and alumni exchanged views on current trends, challenges and opportunities.
Three regional food trucks provided culinary delights to enjoy and linger over.
A crowning finale: the afterparty
After a day full of networking, new ideas, and inspiring conversations, the evening came to a close in a relaxed atmosphere. The afterparty saw celebrations lasting well into the night, accompanied by good music, refreshing drinks and an atmosphere that perfectly reflected the community spirit of the KIT startup community.
A strong signal for the future
The KIT Innovators Homecoming 2025 was not just a reunion of alumni, but a vivid demonstration of the power of community and the tireless spirit of innovation that characterizes the KIT.
As one of the largest university start-up centers in Germany, we as KIT-Gründerschmiede are supporting all activities related to startups and entrepreneurship at KIT, and we are committed to ensuring that innovative ideas not only emerge but are also successfully implemented. Events like the KIT Innovators Homecoming contribute to a strong network and a promising future.
The event showed that Karlsruhe is a hotspot for innovation – and that KIT is a driving force behind it!
Photos © Robert Fuge | KIT
