For ideas bigger than the labs they were created in

JUICE – the Jülich Innovation & Entrepreneurship Certificate Program is your launchpad to learn how to turn research ideas into real-world solutions.

Designed for early-career researchers, JUICE gives you the tools, skills, and mindset to bring your science into motion – whether as a spin-off, a license deal, a consulting service, or a citizen science initiative.

Apply now for JUICE 2026

Make your research matter

You see the potential in your findings – but how do you move from insight to impact? JUICE helps you identify the right applications and audiences for your work.

You'll learn how to build sustainable business models, navigate funding landscapes, and communicate your idea in ways that inspire action – whether in the market or in society. You'll explore what innovation means beyond publications and connect with peers and experts.

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Why join JUICE?

Increase Your Research Impact
Learn how to turn your research into solutions that solve real-world challenges.

Elevate Your Career
Gain skills highly valued in industry and academia.

Expand Your Network
Collaborate with like-minded researchers and innovation experts.

Hands-On Experience
Work on real projects that prepare you for success beyond the lab.


Here's what you'll achieve in JUICE

Phase 1: Explore and test ideas


Start your journey with your own project idea or join another innovative project.

Master essential skills like market analysis, user identification, competitor assessment, and effective communication with stakeholders and experts.

Validate your ideas through stakeholder interviews and hands-on methods, refining your concept into a tangible solution.

Phase 2: Build a business model


Turn your idea into a viable business model with the help of personalized coaching.

Finalize your concept and develop an initial pitch deck. Participate in our networking event to build industry connections.

Phase 3: Take the Stage


Create a professional pitch deck and sharpen your pitching skills.

Showcase your achievements in the Innovation Contest and compete for 2,500 € in funding to support your next steps.

Complete the program with a JUICE certificate, personalized feedback, and clear guidance to advance your project and make your idea a reality.

Explore our FAQ



JUICE Winners & their Endeavours

Melanie Rosen (2024)

The CeraBatt project focuses on ceramic solid-state batteries as an innovative alternative to traditional Li-ion batteries that provide improved safety and durability.

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David Mengen (2023)

The spin-off project Drought Analytics leverages scientific research to develop user-friendly drought mitigation tools to build resilient agricultural systems.

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Simon Hahn (2023)

The spin-off project Clean H2heat is revolutionizing hydrogen technology with his emissions-free DeVer system, creating efficient, on-demand heat for various industrial application

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Vanessa Schmitt (2022)

The spin-off project MiBioLab is advancing microbiome research to unlock new possibilities in health, agriculture, and environmental sustainability through innovative technology and expertise.

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Gabriela Figueroa Miranda (2021)

The Malaria Biosensor project at Forschungszentrum Jülich is pioneering rapid, cost-effective detection of malaria, offering a breakthrough in global health and disease control.

More

The CeraBatt project focuses on ceramic solid-state batteries as an innovative alternative to traditional Li-ion batteries that provide improved safety and durability.

More



What's in the JUICE Program

Workshops & Training: Interactive sessions on essential innovation skills, including market analysis, business modeling, and stakeholder engagement, designed to equip you with practical tools for turning research into real-world impact.

Mentorship: Access to experienced advisors and researchers, as well as individual online coachings.

Success Stories: Get to know alumni who’ve created impactful solutions and become part of the JUICE community.

Time Schedule

Phase 1

Set up & validate your case


🟩 Kick-off
13.03.25 • 9 am - 4 pm
15.9 - 4001b

🟩 Market Orientation
25.03.25 • 9 am - 4 pm
ZB - 338

🟩 Stakeholder Engagement
08.04.25 • 9 am - 4 pm
07.1 U - 312

🟩 Communication Training
08.05.25 • 9 am - 4 pm
14.6 U - 241/240

🟧 Online Coaching I
19.05.25
online

Phase 2

Specify your model


🟩 Business Modelling
01.07.25 • 9 am - 3 pm
07.01 - 312

🟩 Networking
01.07.25 • 3 pm - 6 pm
tba - on campus Jülich

🟧 Online Coaching II
05.08.25
online


Phase 3

Get on stage


🟩 Pitch Trial
04.09.25 • 9 am - 4 pm
01.3 z - 3001

🟩 Innovation Contest
26.09.25 • 9 am - 2 pm
tba - Brainergy Park

🟧 online class ⠀ 🟩 presence events



Frequently asked questions


Who can apply?
Is the JUICE Program free?
Is JUICE an accelerator program for startups?
Do I need an idea, and is my idea suitable for the JUICE Program?
What is the time commitment for the JUICE Program, and is participation mandatory in all courses?
What is the language of the JUICE program?
What's next after JUICE?



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Interested?

Applications for 2025 are closed. Apply for JUICE 2026.

Apply now



Dr. Vanessa Leffler

Innovationsmanagerin

    Building 15.3 /
    Room 3007
    +49 2461/61-6905
    E-Mail


    Last Modified: 23.07.2025