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 2027

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.

Learn more about JUICE

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

Andreas Kuhlmann & Marten Huck (2025)

7Ex developed a modular electrochemical system that extracts high-purity lithium from diverse sources – from old batteries to recycling “black mass” – without additional chemicals. The process is energy-efficient, runs on renewables, and integrates easily into existing plants.

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.

David Mengen (2023)

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

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

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.

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.

What's in the JUICE Program

Workshops & Training

Interactive sessions on essential innovation skills, including market analysis, business modeling, and stakeholder engagement.

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
Mar 12, 2026 • 9 am - 4 pm
ZB / 338

Market Orientation
Mar 26, 2026 • 9 am - 4 pm
ZB / 338

Stakeholder Engagement
Apr 14, 2026 • 9 am - 4 pm
15.9 / 4001b

Communication Training
May 07, 2026 • 9 am - 4 pm
ZB / 338

Online Coaching I
May 21, 2026
online

Phase 2

Specify your model

Business Modelling
July 02, 2026 • 9 am - 3 pm
01.3z / 3001

Networking
July 02, 2026 • 3 pm - 6 pm
02.16 / 2002a

Online Coaching II
Aug 06, 2026
online

Phase 3

Get on stage

Pitch Trial
Sept 03, 2026 • 9 am - 4 pm
15.9 / 4001b

Innovation Contest
Sept 25, 2026 • 9 am - 2 pm
tba

online class in-person events

Frequently asked questions

Who can apply?

Is the JUICE Program free?

Is JUICE an accelerator program for startups?

No, JUICE is not an accelerator program. It is an innovation and entrepreneurship training program designed to empower doctoral researchers to transform their research into tangible solutions.

JUICE focuses on equipping participants with the skills and knowledge to explore various transfer pathways, such as licensing, collaborations, start-ups, or citizen science projects.

While JUICE provides foundational knowledge and support for entrepreneurship, it does not offer the structured environment typical of an accelerator program.

Looking for an accelerator program?

Just get in touch with your innovation manager.

Contact innovation management

Do I need an idea, and is my idea suitable for the JUICE Program?

No project idea? No problem!

You’re welcome to apply whether you have a project idea or just a strong interest in innovation and entrepreneurship. Those without an idea can join group projects during the program.

Got an idea? Great!

If you have an idea, you’ll pitch it briefly during the kick-off meeting—no slides or materials needed. Focus on the technology and its potential to solve real-world problems. Initial assumptions are fine; the program will guide you through refining and validating your concept.

It should be scientifically sound, linked to your research at FZJ or RWTH, and hold potential for application outside academia. Whether your project is a start-up, technology licensing, or knowledge transfer, JUICE supports all types of innovation paths.

What is the time commitment for the JUICE Program, and is participation mandatory in all courses?

Participation in all modules is mandatory, including in-person events. This ensures a full learning experience.

The program requires approximately seven working days for workshops, online training, networking events, and the innovation competition. An additional three days may be needed for tasks like stakeholder engagement and finalizing the business model.

Before applying, review the schedule carefully and confirm your availability with your supervisor to avoid conflicts. Workload may vary depending on individual roles and team dynamics.

What is the language of the JUICE program?

What's next after JUICE?