Innovations definitely possible in Hamburg, HHIS finds

"Innovation" is defined in many ways most of which were tangible during the anniversary summit. More than 80 items on the agenda with 140 speakers on six stages and a 1,800 square metre exhibition area highlighted the lasting impact of AI, quantum computing, novel foods, mobility and urban development, crafts 4.0, climate and energy, advanced materials, social innovation, entrepreneurship, the war for talent and health and lifestyle, as well as the application of science and technology on politics, business and society. Peter Tschentscher, the Mayor of Hamburg, also attended the event and spoke to numerous exhibitors.

The announcement at the summit that the recently founded startup factory, "Impossible Founders", now has more than EUR 50 million in funds available following the German government's approval of funding for deep tech innovations was met with great enthusiasm. Foundations and companies in Hamburg are putting EUR 40 million of the total amount towards this endeavor. Emphasis is on green technologies and developing new materials in connection with AI and data science. "What great news for Hamburg! The Impossible Founders shows what is possible when business, science, foundations and politics work together,"  Leonhard remarked. 

Innovation requires ideas, courageous people to execute them, and environments in which they can flourish. During the "Hamburg Innovation Radar" panel, Nina Alswede, Key Account Manager at the Hamburg Invest business development agency, said Hamburg is on the "right track, focusing on the trends, projects and players driving innovation" in the city. The innovation parks in Altona, Bergedorf, Finkenwerder and Harburg, some of which are still being built, and the tecHHub Hamburg are great examples. Networking is already going well. "A city's development in terms of innovation is not a project that can be considered in isolation. We need deep-tech solutions in science to be truly innovative," she stressed.

Now that AI has changed almost every aspect of the economy,  the next big game changer is quantum technology. Enter the COOKIE project presented by the Fraunhofer Institute as part of Hamburg's first quantum computer strategy. Enter the COOKIE project, presented by the Fraunhofer Institute as part of Hamburg's first quantum computer strategy.  COOKIE is an AI-supported solution for detecting damage to empty containers, which should make port logistics more efficient and safer.

The German Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR) recently prioritized DESY's X-ray light source Petra IV and the particle detector IceCub-Gen2 as "research infrastructure of national importance". The infrastructure is of high scientific excellence, innovation and transfer potential and boosts Science City Hamburg Bahrenfeld as a centre of innovation.

Startup issues topped the agenda in almost all sections of HHIS. The Startup Stage focused on social entrepreneurship and venture clienting, among others, and featured pitches and information on funding opportunities. Startup City Hamburg hosted a panel entitled "From Migration to Innovation: Startup Successes in Hamburg", featuring founders with an immigrant background. Most delegates left the summit feeling both inspired and reassured. If it continues to fearlessly use the outstanding opportunities visible at the summit, Hamburg can definite innovate.
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