Six female founders were able to convince the jury with their innovative ideas and secure a place in the second round of EXIST-Women at HNU. The projects in detail:
Employee feedback rethought by Alena Ladnykh
A company is only as good as its feedback culture. Alena is developing a system that gives employees the opportunity to give their feedback anonymously. The aim is to use continuous feedback to improve product quality and promote appreciative corporate cultures.
Upcycling platform for a sustainable future by Behnaz Baghaie Nejad
Many households have unused items that often end up in the bin. Behnaz wants to promote creative upcycling with a new platform. The project combines sustainability with art, promotes the circular economy and offers innovative solutions to reduce waste.
AMVI: Smart and sustainable mobility for companies by Lucia Probst
20% of global greenhouse gas emissions come from the transport sector. Lucia is developing an app that intelligently connects employees of the same company for carpooling. This reduces CO₂ emissions, relieves traffic congestion and promotes social interaction in the workplace. AMVI even makes sustainable mobility measurable.
Biodegradable packaging by Mariana Martinez Ruelas
What if packaging didn't pollute our environment but instead provided nutrients for plants? Mariana develops innovative, fully compostable packaging solutions that combine functionality with sustainability. The materials offer thermal stability, extended shelf life for food and a real contribution to the circular economy.
FragLoki: The platform for local retail by Tatjana Wiest
Online retail is booming, while city centers are increasingly dying out. Tatjana is building a platform that connects local boutiques and retailers with potential customers. Smart filters, sustainable delivery options and AI-supported advice make the shopping experience more digital and more personal at the same time.
Efficiency and sustainability in agriculture with AI from Trivedi Dharati Jayeshbhai
Weed infestation and inefficient cultivation lead to high yield losses in agriculture. Dharati is developing an AI-supported solution to identify plants and weeds in real time. This enables targeted, resource-saving cultivation and reduces the use of pesticides.
About EXIST Women at HNU
EXIST-Women is a funding program of the Federal Ministry of Economics and Climate Protection (BMWK) that supports women interested in founding a company at universities and research institutions. As part of the program, selected female founders at Neu-Ulm University of Applied Sciences are sensitized and trained on the topics of business development and entrepreneurship; among other things through workshop formats, individual coaching, pitch opportunities and networking events. EXIST-Women at HNU is headed by Prof. Dr. Jens Kolb, designed by Carina Volk-Schor and Anna Sophia Boden and supported by the Founders Space team.
