Trier students win at startup camp with AI idea!

Trier students win at startup camp with AI idea!

Marvin Lange and Maik Franke, two bachelor's students at the University of Trier, won one of the three coveted prizes at the Startup Camp 2025, which took place on May 8th and 9th at Sparkasse Trier. Your “Hologat” project aims to simplify the EU approval of vehicles and components using artificial intelligence. The two winners impressed the jury and received prize money of 1,500 euros for their innovative idea.

Around 40 participants – both individuals and teams – had the opportunity to present their business ideas in various workshops. A total of 18 innovative start-up ideas were pitched to an expert jury, with the participants coming up with concepts from areas such as sustainable fashion labels, digital platforms and AI applications. A special highlight was the “Blooming wishes” student team, which presented a sustainable gift card made of handmade paper with flower seeds.

Startup Camp: A springboard for founders

The event, which was organized by the start-up office of the University of Trier, the Trier University of Applied Sciences and the Trier Economic Development Agency, was aimed at those interested in starting a business, students and those with professional experience from various areas. Registration was possible from April 1, 2025 and participation was free. Target group-specific workshops supported the participants in implementing their ideas.

The jury praised the high quality of the pitches and the impressive further development of the business models. In addition to Hologat, two other promising ideas were honored: “Woundanalyzer”, an AI-based system for the optical monitoring of postoperative wounds, and “EMMÉ – The Label”, an inclusive modest fashion label.

Another highlight of the event was the keynote by Lukas Roth from TENTA VISION GmbH, who shared his founding story. Many participants also appreciated the close exchange with mentors and the opportunity to network with each other.

The context of the startup ecosystem

What is happening in Trier also reflects the challenges and opportunities that startups in Germany will have to face in 2024. The German startup ecosystem is facing fundamental changes, particularly caused by economic uncertainties. According to the German Startup Monitor, 79.8% of startups expect their business situation to improve by the end of 2025. However, these positive expectations are accompanied by the reality of high energy costs and a tight venture capital market.

A key trend among founders is an increased focus on sustainable business models and profitability rather than rapid growth. Almost 48.1% of startups identify with the green economy, which underlines the relevance of sustainable initiatives. Despite the challenges, optimism remains high, and the founders are usually supported beyond events by organizations such as the Trier Start-up Office. This development is supported by investments in renewable energies and innovative solutions in the circular economy.

For the startup camp participants, this was not only an opportunity for financial support, but also a crucial step in a rapidly changing market that is increasingly placing emphasis on sustainability and partnerships with established companies.