A special highlight was the address by Saxony’s Minister President Michael Kretschmer, who emphasized the importance of regional innovation spaces for the state’s future.
The SEPT Competence Center at the Faculty of Economics and Management Science of Leipzig University actively contributed by presenting the achievements of two flagship projects:
- Prozesswerkstatt (Process Makerspace): Developing a data-driven analysis approach for the highly diverse, non-standardized processes of craft companies, enabling SMEs to digitize, optimize, and innovate.
- Start-up Werkstatt: Supporting the creation and growth of start-ups in the craft industry through coaching, prototype development, and market testing, as well as access to corporate financing.
At its workshop station, participants explored hands-on results from both projects, discussed practical applications for regional businesses, and exchanged ideas for strengthening entrepreneurial ecosystems. In addition, two start-up projects were presented, focusing on 3D printing in handicrafts and on designer wooden furniture combined with technology.
The conference clearly demonstrated how collaboration between research, politics, and business can drive forward-looking solutions for innovation and regional development.
