Innovation in Action: The fourth 5-HT Innovators Club in Heidelberg

On September 11–12, 2024, the fourth 5-HT Innovators Club gathered innovators, startups, and industry leaders in the chemistry and health sectors for an inspiring two-day event in Heidelberg. With an agenda full of thought-provoking discussions, success stories, and dynamic networking opportunities, the event once again demonstrated the power of collaboration in driving innovation.

A Picturesque Beginning on the Neckar

The event began on the evening of September 11 with a networking cruise on the romantic Neckar River. This unique setting fostered early connections between participants, creating a trust-filled atmosphere that carried into the second day. Alongside informal exchanges, the evening included keynote speeches that set the stage for the deeper conversations to come.

Keynotes That Framed the Day

The main event on September 12 at the Arthotel Heidelberg was bookended by two outstanding keynotes:

• Opening Keynote: Prof. Dr. Carsten Suntrop of CMC² GmbH explored the “Digital Transformation in Chemistry: Successes, Challenges, Desires, and Realities.” Using practical examples, he vividly illustrated the challenges faced by the chemical industry in a complex economic landscape while highlighting strategies to overcome them.

Prof. Dr. Carsten Suntrop of CMC² GmbH

• Closing Keynote: Thomas Seiler from Siemens Healthineers brought the day to a close with “AI in Medicine: Current Status and Future Perspectives.” His talk highlighted current AI applications in healthcare and provided a visionary glimpse into what AI could achieve by 2030, emphasizing the work still needed to realize its full potential.

Thomas Seiler from Siemens Healthineers

These two keynotes, strategically placed at the start and end of the day, provided an intellectual framework for the discussions in between, creating a cohesive and engaging narrative for the event.

Success Stories: Partnerships Driving Progress

Two compelling success stories underscored 5-HT’s impact in fostering collaboration between corporates and startups:

• LTS Lohmann Therapie-Systeme AG and AVAYL: Dr. Patrick Mohr (LTS) and Dr. Miena Amiri (AVAYL) presented their AI-driven project, “MedPro,” designed to optimize life sciences solutions.

Dr. Patrick Mohr (LTS) and Dr. Miena Amiri (AVAYL)

• The Berner Group and Startup Partnership: Dr. Johannes Halama of The Berner Group shared how their collaboration with a startup is improving spray applications for the mobility sector.

Dr. Johannes Halama of The Berner Group

Both stories showcased the tangible results of 5-HT’s mission to connect innovative startups with established industry leaders.

Expert Talks and Dynamic Round Tables

The event also featured Expert Talks and interactive round tables, offering deeper dives into critical topics:

• Product Carbon Footprint by Dr. Patrick Kölsch of greenable

• Corporate Venturing by Dr. Alexander Elsen of Heraeus

• Quantum Computing by Dr. Daniel Volz of Kipu Quantum, complemented by insights from BASF’s Dr. Abhishek Awasthi

Dr. Patrick Kölsch of greenable

Dr. Alexander Elsen of Heraeus

Dr. Daniel Volz of Kipu Quantum, Alexander Böser of 5-HT, Dr. Abhishek Awasthi of BASF

These discussions provided valuable insights into cutting-edge developments and real-world applications, sparking productive conversations during the workshops that followed.

Guided with Expertise and Charm

A special thank-you goes to Alexander Böser, whose expert and charming moderation kept the day running smoothly and engagingly. His ability to connect with speakers and the audience added to the event’s professional yet welcoming atmosphere.

Alexander Böser of 5-HT moderating the whole event

A Vibrant Community of Innovators

The day wasn’t just about sessions and presentations—it was also a celebration of the vibrant and open-minded community that 5-HT has cultivated. Networking moments in an open and trust-filled atmosphere, from the evening cruise to coffee breaks and workshops, allowed participants to exchange ideas and build connections that could shape the future of their industries.

Looking to 2025

As the fourth 5-HT Innovators Club came to a close, participants left with fresh ideas, new connections, and a shared sense of purpose. We are excited to see the partnerships and projects that emerge from this gathering and look forward to welcoming everyone back for the next edition in 2025.

A heartfelt thank you to all the speakers, participants, and the incredible 5-HT team for making this event an unforgettable success. Together, we are shaping the future of innovation in chemistry and health.