On October 30, 2025, GO-Bio initial focused on the optimal start of start-up projects, in particular on the success factors “team” and “the network as a turbocharger.” Together with the two speakers, the TransMIT team motivated participants in the online event to set up and continue their start-up projects professionally, this time focusing on the human aspect.
The first presentation was given by Ms. Juliane Kummer from the RKW Competence Center in Eschborn, who spoke as an expert with many years of experience in supporting start-ups on the topic of “team.” She discussed the advantages of having a start-up team that is as versatile as possible, which can distribute the numerous different tasks among several shoulders and is therefore more resilient. She emphasized the importance of carefully clarifying the roles of team members and stressed that even unpleasant or annoying aspects should be clarified early on and conclusively in order to avoid disagreements later on. Ms. Kummer shared her wealth of experience with the participants, answered all their questions, and did not shy away from addressing potential challenges and problems that she herself had encountered or experienced. Special attention must be paid to assigning responsibilities and roles, setting specific sub-goals, closing gaps in the founding team's expertise, and building a resilient network.
With the keyword “network,” Ms. Kummer then handed over to Dr. Titus Kaletta, an experienced management consultant and expert at the Science4life competition, who moved on to the topic of “the network as a turbocharger.” He vividly described how the functions of the start-up network include not only general support but also resource procurement, knowledge transfer, and reputation. It is important that the network consists of stable, trusting contacts, that it continues to be maintained regularly, and that there is a general balance between giving and taking. In order for a network to fulfill a multiplier function, it is important to share development milestones, problems, and other important information, and to take storytelling into account. Addressing the participants, Dr. Kaletta advised assigning and naming different roles within the network. In doing so, it is important to keep an eye on quantity and quality, as well as to respond differently to introverted and extroverted people. A good network comprising “real” networkers, doers, and knowledge carriers acts like a turbocharger. Dr. Kaletta's very interesting presentation ended with a lively discussion.