Not a knowledge problem, but a commercialisation problem: new transfer pathways for UAS : Date:
How can transfer succeed in areas where businesses, capital and innovation networks are less densely represented? Nordhausen University of Applied Sciences is trialling new approaches in the hike project to bring research into application in a more targeted way. The focus is on the question of which transfer formats small universities of applied sciences in structurally weak regions need, and what influence artificial intelligence (AI), well-matched teams and early-clarified commercialisation pathways have on this.
How can small universities in peripheral regions develop viable applications, business models and science-based spin-offs from their research?
Nordhausen University of Applied Sciences (HSN) is located in a rural, structurally weak region with few businesses. Investment and capital structures are also less developed, and networks between academia and industry are less established than in many urban science hubs. As the only comprehensive research institution in Northern Thuringia, HSN thus plays a particular role in the regional innovation system.
However, knowledge and research alone do not automatically lead to applications and value creation. At HSN, for example, intellectual property rights and science-based spin-offs have so far played a minor role. How transfer and commercialisation formats need to be designed for small universities of applied sciences (HAW) in rural areas has, to date, been less investigated than in metropolitan regions.
From open innovation format to transfer experiment
This is where the university incubator hike comes in with the HIKEathon. Developed at HSN in 2022, the format has already been held six times, bringing together people from academia, business, public administration and civil society to solve real-world practical challenges using design thinking methods.
For the 7th edition in 2026, the HIKEathon is being fundamentally redeveloped and piloted in a new format. Instead of an open application process, hike will specifically assemble teams with the scientific, technical, commercial or regulatory expertise required for selected research topics. The topics range from quantum key distribution and space travel to generative AI and wind, drone and decarbonisation technologies.
No method for every problem
Methodologically, the HIKEathon is not intended to follow a fixed sequence. Rather, the Double Diamond, a four-phase design process model developed by the British Design Council (Discover, Define, Develop, Deliver), provides orientation for opening up and narrowing down problem and solution spaces. The specific process is tailored accordingly to the topic and level of maturity. Generative AI is intended to support research, changes in perspective, idea development, prototyping and the roadmapping of commercialisation pathways. Whether and where this actually creates added value is explicitly part of the piloting process. As a result, the contextual knowledge and judgement of the experts involved remain central.
Transfer doesn’t hust begin after the workshop
A key difference from the previous format lies in the planned continuity, as HIKEathon participants clarify possible commercialisation pathways even before it begins. This is achieved through the involvement of HSN's Transfer Office, which supports the development of applications, transfer concepts and follow-up projects.
A pilot wirh an open outcome
Whether this approach works will be demonstrated by the pilot in autumn 2026. Process logic, choice of methods, use of AI and transfer agreements will therefore be documented. In the long term, these results are also to be made available to other universities of applied sciences, which can then draw on the experience gained.
Text source: Nordhausen University of Applied Sciences