Startups und Spin-offsLabel “Created at Universität Heidelberg”
Spin-offs from Heidelberg University stand for innovation and technological excellence. The exclusive label “Created at Heidelberg University” not only symbolizes the origin of your business idea, but is also a sign of excellence, innovation, dynamism and credibility.
All start-ups and spin-offs that identify with the university can apply for the label. It is awarded by the transfer agency hei_INNOVATION and the Rectorate of Heidelberg University.
Benefits of using the label
The label is a seal of quality that stands for scientific expertise and strengthens the basis of the startup and the team. Startups that carry the label benefit from:
Increased visibility: by using the label on the website and on marketing materials, visibility is increased among a broad target group (customers, partners, investors).
Confidence building: Affiliation with a renowned educational institution strengthens trust in the company and its products.
Access to the network: Exclusive access to the hei_INNOVATION network of alumni, researchers, start-ups and potential investors.
hei_INNOVATION services: Privileged access to hei_INNOVATION services in the area of startup support.
Presentation on Heidelberg University websites: The award-winning label holders are presented on the university's website.
Guidelines for using the label
The "Created at Heidelberg University" label is an exclusive trademark that should be used carefully to preserve the value and integrity of the label holder community. Below are the guidelines for use, which are included in the official release for label use:
- Marketing Materials: You are authorized to use the label on websites and in presentations. Use on other digital and analog materials is also possible after consultation with the transfer agency hei_INNOVATION.
- Events: Use the label to emphasize your affiliation at industry-relevant events and trade fairs.
- Digital presence: Integrate the label into your online presence to stand out in digital networks.
- Usage agreement: You sign a usage agreement with the university that defines the rights and obligations.
- Styleguide: The university provides you with a style guide for using the label.
Label carriers
Discover innovative and successful start-ups that bear the label "Created at Heidelberg University". These companies represent the diversity and strength of the academic community at Heidelberg University and serve as inspiration for future founders.
AQUAI GmbH
AQUAI GmbH, founded by Jonathan Weinert and Pascal Perle and supported by an EXIST start-up grant, is revolutionizing home swimming training with the SwimLoop. Their product, an AI-supported virtual swimming trainer, analyzes swimming techniques and provides detailed performance data while reducing electricity costs, noise and CO₂ emissions compared to traditional counter-current systems. The SwimLoop tracker, attached to an elastic strap with force sensor, measures swimming power and transmits data to mobile devices via Bluetooth. Ideal for home pools, SwimLoop offers an efficient, fun training experience and is an innovative solution for swimmers of all levels to improve their technique and performance.
Awarding criteria
The following criteria are used to award the label:
- At least one team member of the startup was/is enrolled or employed at Heidelberg University OR
- the startup uses IP from the university OR
- the development of the startup has demonstrably taken place at Heidelberg University OR
- the startup has received funding with the help of hei_INNOVATION.
For companies founded before 2020, the following criterion must be met:
- active sales are achieved OR
- Venture capital has been raised
The transfer agency hei_INNOVATION examines each application for use of the label individually. There is no entitlement to the label.
If you believe that your startup fulfills the above criteria and would like to benefit from the “Created at Heidelberg University” label,
we look forward to hearing from you at gründungsberatung@heiinnovation.uni-heidelberg.de to start the application process.