Helmholtz Academy for Intrapreneurship (HAFIS)
– A Helmholtz Transfer Academy
Your research can have an impact on society and economy.
How do we help you make it happen?
For many researchers, contributing to solving the inherent challenges of our time is a strong ambition, but also a real challenge in their day-to-day work. HAFIS supports them with a project-based approach in which they can participate alongside their research activities: In a nine-month cycle, we accompany researchers in identifying and implementing their own transfer projects that fit their results and suit them individually.
What is our vision?
We want researchers to identify and seize opportunities to bring their research into practice. So more outstanding research results find their way into society and the economy. In our cross-center program, you as a participant work with coaches on your project, gain methodological knowledge, establish a team, and benefit from exchanges with experts from society and industry. You will develop your own project and broaden your perspective on the possibilities of making an impact with research. Through collaboration with various Helmholtz centers and their partner organizations, your research topics become visible beyond the scientific community. But most importantly, during the program, you will already achieve first prototypical results.
Meet our coaches
Behind every breakthrough idea is someone who helped ask the right question. In HAFIS that someone is often a coach. Our coaches don’t offer ready-made answers – they ask sharp questions, spark reflection, and support researchers in translating their work into real-world impact.
With deep expertise in innovation transfer and a strong sense of empathy, they help connect the dots between science and society. Whether you’re refining a concept, navigating uncertainty, or thinking bigger about what’s next, your coach is there to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
Vanessa Leffler (FZI)
“HAFIS is more than just a training program – it’s a catalyst for transformation. It empowers participants to bring their research to life, turning science into real-world solutions. For me, it’s an incredible opportunity to support researchers in shaping the future through innovation and collaboration.“
Schadi Neumann (KIT)
“It’s always inspiring to hear what our researchers are working on. To be part of their journey is a real pleasure. It is also energizing to work with so many motivated researchers who want to turn their research into impact.”
Anne Richter (HZDR)
“I am inspired by the passion, creativity and determination of our researchers. Their work is not only advancing knowledge but also shaping the future with innovative solutions. It’s a privilege to witness their projects grow and to be part of a community dedicated to meaningful progress.“
Julia Schmidt (KIT)
“I really like how HAFIS pushes researchers to go the extra mile. Things that seem impossible at the start of the program are achieved and personal reservations are overcome through learning by doing. I think this is mainly down to the way the programme mixes different subjects together and encourages new ways of thinking. It’s inspiring to see how this approach broadens perspectives and I’m excited to see where this journey will take us.“
Sarah Manthey (KIT)
“HAFIS is a fantastic opportunity for me to work with dedicated researchers and support them on their journey to turn scientific ideas into practical applications. Each project and each individual behind it is unique, which makes the program incredibly exciting and enriching – even for us as coaches. I am grateful to be a part of this program, and I look forward to following the participants’ journeys, while continuously learning for myself along the way.“
Niels Feldmann (KIT)
“For me and many researchers I know, acquiring knowledge and generating insights into cutting-edge topics – with the ultimate goal of addressing challenges or unlocking potentials that have a meaningful impact on humanity – is a key motivation. This is why we designed HAFIS to help researchers identify opportunities to create societal and economic impact, explore roles beyond the scientific bubble, and practice empathy and user-centered thinking.“
Moritz Spreng (GSI)
“HAFIS is a fantastic opportunity to jointly shape a culture of innovation in our Helmholtz Centers. It’s exciting to see the potential that lies within the minds of people in our research organizations – just waiting to be unlocked and brought to life.“
Katja Bazanova (FZI)
“What makes HAFIS special is the mix of curiosity, experience, and ambition in the room. It’s inspiring to see how the teams shape their ideas, take on new perspectives, and steadily move toward creating real impact.“
Dorit Teichmann (HZDR)
“As a coach and sparring partner in the HAFIS program, I help refine our participants’ ideas, challenge their perspectives and unlock new potential. It’s a privilege to guide their journey – from the initial concepts to impactful innovations.“
The current HAFIS cycle will come to an end in June.
Application for the next cycle is open now!
Interested in becoming our partner?
If you research center or university is not a part of HAFIS yet, we are always open to make new connections. Research should be able to strive, no matter in which lab or office.
