Motivation
Many innovative ideas are born at universities – but the step to actual implementation rarely succeeds without targeted support. This is where Kilometer1 comes in: the initiative offers comprehensive support to those interested in starting a business – from initial orientation to the actual launch. At the same time, Kilometer1 strengthens the start-up culture in the Lake Constance region and contributes to the regional transfer of knowledge and technologies.
Program
Kilometer1 offers a wide range of services: from open consultation hours and individual start-up advice to workshops, networking events, and methodological tools—all elements are practical, modular, and geared toward the various phases of the start-up process. There is a particular focus on the early stages of entrepreneurship: initial ideas are refined together, business models are developed, and funding opportunities are targeted, including for female founders (EXIST-Women).
A central component is the toolbox, which accompanies start-up teams on their “road to start-up” with helpful methods such as the Business Model Canvas, checklists, canvas templates, and space for exchange. The offering is complemented by topic-specific workshops such as “Innovation Challenge,” “Entrepreneurs in Science,” and “StartUp Your Thesis,” which build specific skills and bring entrepreneurship to life.
In addition to individual support, Kilometer1 offers numerous events such as “Ideas & Cheers,” the inter-university idea competition IDEA CUP, and regular startup BBQs. These formats promote visibility, exchange, and networking—both within the universities and with regional partners.
Kilometer1's strong network includes mentors, founders, companies, institutions, and initiatives such as Start-up BW and the state network NXTGN. Working closely with these partners, Kilometer1 is able to effectively support start-up teams and actively shape the regional innovation ecosystem.