Access to the AI community, events and innovation networks for exchange, knowledge transfer and visibility

The Softlanding Programme supports international start-ups, SMEs and innovative companies in establishing and expanding their operations in Germany, Baden-Württemberg and Europe. At the same time, the programme assists companies and start-ups from Baden-Württemberg with internationalisation and gaining access to new markets in Europe and beyond.
The aim of the programme is to facilitate market entry, provide guidance and support companies in successfully expanding into new target markets. The programme comprises practical information, personalised guidance and access to experts and networks on topics relevant to internationalisation. These include, in particular, intercultural competence, diversity & inclusion, intercultural onboarding, employee relocation, guidance on international innovation and economic systems, as well as information on administrative, organisational and cultural frameworks.

Through the European network of European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs) and other international partners, contacts are established with relevant support structures, innovation ecosystems, companies, research institutions and potential collaboration partners in Germany, Europe and beyond.
Companies benefit from faster familiarisation with new markets, better preparation for cultural and organisational challenges, easier access to networks and innovation ecosystems, and the initiation of international collaborations and business opportunities. The aim is to support companies in the sustainable and successful expansion of their activities in Germany, Europe and international markets.

You can find all our events in our events calendar.

Furthermore, through delegation visits and international exchange programmes, the EDIH-AICS provides insights into the innovation ecosystem in Karlsruhe and other European innovation regions (e.g. Eindhoven, NL, or Catalonia, ES), as well as facilitating connections with relevant stakeholders. National and international delegations gain access to institutions, innovation centres, companies and projects in the Karlsruhe region and other European innovation regions. Through presentations, technology demonstrations and targeted networking events, best practices are highlighted and new collaborations between industry, research and innovation stakeholders are initiated.

Another key component of the programme is supporting companies in raising the profile of their innovations at specialist conferences, trade fairs and industry events. In collaboration with partners within the innovation ecosystem, companies are given the opportunity to present their technologies, products and services to a relevant specialist audience, forge new contacts and position themselves within key AI and technology markets. Joint trade fair appearances create additional reach, boost visibility and facilitate dialogue with potential customers, partners and investors.

Through access to the EDIH-AICS network, companies benefit from an active AI community, new perspectives and concrete opportunities for collaboration and growth in Baden-Württemberg, Germany and across Europe. The aim is to promote knowledge transfer, highlight potential for innovation and support companies in strategically developing their AI activities and successfully positioning themselves within the AI ecosystem.

Who is this service for?

The service is aimed at start-ups, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), scale-ups and technology-oriented companies,

• which wish to expand their business activities to Germany, Baden-Württemberg or other European innovation regions,
• which wish to tap into international markets from a base in Baden-Württemberg or expand their international presence,
• which require support with market entry, building local and international networks, and addressing intercultural issues,
• which are seeking access to international innovation ecosystems, cooperation partners and the European EDIH network.

This service is aimed in particular at start-up founders, international teams, specialists and managers, as well as organisations with ambitions for growth and internationalisation.

Fee:

This service is offered free of charge as part of the EDIH-AICS.

Required level of AI experience:

This service is suitable for all levels of experience, from beginners to experts.

Your contact: