Innovation Day
July 3rd 2025
About the Event
Join us this June for the third annual Innovation Day – the yearly event where academic entrepreneurship takes center stage. The one-day gathering highlights the groundbreaking work of RUG and UMCG innovators, demonstrating how research-driven advancements contribute to greater societal well-being. The Innovation Day brings together researchers, entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and policymakers to exchange ideas, foster collaboration, and explore the future of academic innovation. This year’s edition will focus on where it all begins: Imagination.

Please note that the number of attendees for the Innovation Day is capped at 150.
Locations
Feringa Building
The 2025 edition of the Innovation Day Event will take place at the vibrant Campus Groningen. The event will be held at the Feringa Building, Nijenborgh 3, 9747 AG, Groningen.
For parking possibilities, please see the site of Campus Groningen.
What to expect?
The upcoming Innovation Day is an excellent opportunity to learn about the exciting university startup ecosystem, with a range of informative and inspiring events on the agenda. Attendees will have the chance to hear from the CVB and Spin-offs about the entrepreneurial ecosystem at the university, providing valuable insights for budding innovators.
- Learn more about university startup ecosystem from University Board of Directors & Spin-offs
- Join us in celebrating an exemplary academic entrepreneur who has been successful in generating impact through valorization
- Get inspired by the leading innovators from RuG & UMCG
- Network with deep tech investors, policy makers, incubators, innovators & technology transfer officers
The Program
The Innovation Day event is set to bring together a group of expert speakers who are at the forefront of innovation and technology. These speakers are individuals who have made significant contributions through academic entrepreneurship, and they will share their insights, experiences, and visions for the future with the attendees. The event is designed to provide attendees with a unique opportunity to gain knowledge and insights about the latest developments and trends, as well as to network with other professionals in the field. With a diverse range of speakers, the event promises to be an informative and exciting experience for all those interested in academic entrepreneurship and its impact on the university ecosystem. Find out more about our program down below.
10:00-10:15
Registration and Welcome Drinks
10:15-11:00
Opening Remarks
Rector Magnificus of the Board of the University of Groningen
prof. dr. ir. J.M.A. Scherpen
11:00-11:30
Award Ceremony
drs. Hans Biemans, prof. dr. Hedderik van Rijn
11:30-11:45
t.b.a.
t.b.a.
11:45-12:00
t.b.a.
t.b.a.
12:00-13:15
Startup fair + Lunch break
13:15-14:00
Keynote Speaker
t.b.a.
14:00-15:00
Academic Inspiration Sessions
Bridging academic excellence and thriving entrepreneurship
t.b.a.
15:00-15:15
Closing remarks
15:15-16:00