Revolution in Deep Tech: Aachen is planning innovation hubs for Europe!

Revolution in Deep Tech: Aachen is planning innovation hubs for Europe!

On March 26, 2025, RWTH Aachen will be brought into the focus of the deep tech world through the research of Michael Riesener, who leads the new professorship for Deep Tech Innovation at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering. Riesener works to accelerate the development of deep tech innovations and optimize their translation into marketable technologies. He sees a significant gap between early and advanced technology readiness levels (TRL), which often hinders the application of new research results. These challenges drive him to build a strong network and an excellent team to achieve the goals of his professorship.

His academic career, which includes studying industrial engineering with mechanical engineering at RWTH Aachen and the National University of Singapore, as well as a doctorate at the Chair of Production Systematics, gives him a solid basis for his work. Riesener was previously managing director of RWTH Innovation GmbH, which acts as the central technology transfer unit of RWTH Aachen.

Challenges in the commercialization of deep tech

Despite significant investments in basic research and development (R&D), Europe is struggling to efficiently commercialize systemic innovations. This often happens in regions such as the USA or China, which is underlined by the analysis by the Fraunhofer Institute. A white paper describes the existing funding gap between public and private support as a “Valley of Death,” which significantly affects technology transfer for deep tech innovations. RWTH Aachen is therefore planning to set up several translation hubs in order to network scientists, industry partners and foundations more closely.

These hubs aim to raise technologies to higher levels of maturity and thus overcome the challenges in the transition from research to market readiness. The risks are particularly high in the area of ​​deep tech, but so are the economic and social opportunities. Increased collaboration between research and industry is considered necessary to advance the commercialization of these technologies.

Deep Tech Bootcamp in Aachen

Another important event in the promotion of Deep Tech innovations was the Deep Tech Bootcamp, which took place in Aachen from May 24th to 27th, 2023. Over 350 participants, including 250 founders and 50 mentors, came together to discuss the prospects and potential in areas such as space, AI, biotechnology and more. Organized by RWTH Aachen and Techstars Berlin, the boot camp was held as part of the STARTUP WEEK AACHEN.

The event included a variety of formats, including workshops, panel discussions and pitch sessions. A particular highlight was the discussion “Building Europe’s Deep Tech Titans”, in which experts spoke about the challenges and opportunities in the deep tech industry. The innovations presented during this event show potential to further revolutionize the industry.

Achievements and outlook

Some of the 50 teams that took part in the pitch session stand out. Silica Corpora, Veecle and Lúnasa Space are among the finalists who won major awards. These successes are evidence of the committed network that has formed in Aachen and is crucial for the future development of deep tech innovations in Europe.

RWTH Aachen, through its strategic initiatives and committed research, as well as its deep roots in industry, strives to close the gaps in technology transfer and accelerate the market readiness for future technologies. The entire environment for deep tech is developing positively, and the exchange between science, industry and start-ups will continue to be crucial to mastering the challenges and strengthening Europe's innovative strength.