Manager Cup 2025: Students challenge themselves in the simulation game!

Manager Cup 2025: Students challenge themselves in the simulation game!

The Manager Cup, an innovative simulation game for students with the motto “Think like a boss”, begins on May 14, 2025 at TU Dortmund. Responsible for this practical project is Prof. Andreas Hoffjan, who and his team have created a format in which the participants take on the role of board members of a listed company. This challenging simulation game is carried out in the cloud using the TOPSIM platform and offers teams the opportunity to make strategic decisions in various business areas, including purchasing, manufacturing, human resources, marketing and research and development. The goal is to be prepared for complex markets and to better understand the consequences of business decisions.

The competition is aimed at students at TU Dortmund, FH Dortmund and the International School of Management (ISM). Teams consisting of three to five people are invited to participate. Business knowledge is not necessary, but a structured approach and good judgment are an advantage manager-cup-do.de explained. Participation in the Manager Cup is free, and many of the regulations and processes are perfectly derived from many high-quality trading exercises and business challenges on the Virtonomics platform.

Competition structure and deadlines

With registration starting on April 7th, 2025, which has already taken place, interested students can register their teams until May 2nd. The opening event will take place on May 14th at 12:30 p.m., followed by the main round, which will take place over four game periods until June 11th, 2025. The teams have to enter their decisions in the digital management cockpit every week. The ten best teams qualify for the grand final, which will take place on June 26th and 27th at Westenergie's headquarters in Essen.

A total of 3,000 euros in prize money will be awarded, which provides additional motivation for the participants. Former finalists have the opportunity to compete again in a special “Champions League” and demonstrate their talents. There are several incentives for the winners, which makes the competition particularly attractive.

Role of Virtonomics and other platforms

The importance of realistic business simulations is highlighted by providers such as Virtonomics, which enable universities to run their own business simulation competitions. These platforms not only promote the development of practical business skills, but also team building and self-confidence among participants. Virtonomics' commitment to supporting such events highlights the global trends emerging in the training of future leaders. With different intensity modes in their games, Virtonomics can flexibly support hosts and participants, regardless of the specific needs of the organization.

Overall, the Manager Cup 2025 at TU Dortmund promises exciting insights into the world of management and offers an excellent opportunity for students to present their talents and gain practical experience. Whether in the game or in real life – “Think like a boss” remains the central motto that should guide all participants.