In this episode, we talk with Adrian Thoma, a key figure in the startup scene in Baden-Württemberg. Adrian is known for his work in building the Gründermotor and now with the Next Generation Mittelstand initiative, which brings together innovative startups and companies.

Adrian shares his experiences from the startup world, explains the challenges and opportunities for startups in Baden-Württemberg, and provides insights into how he and his team are driving entrepreneurship in the region. We discuss the role of universities, businesses, and the state of Baden-Württemberg in promoting innovation and entrepreneurship. The conversation also covers the importance of business ecosystems and open innovation for the future of industry in the region.

| CHAPTERS IN THIS PODCAST |

00:00:00 – Introduction and Welcome
00:01:05 – Adrian's Background and Entry into the Stuttgart Startup Scene
00:04:20 – The Creation of Gründermotor and the Vision for Next Generation Mittelstand
00:07:52 – Challenges and Opportunities in Baden-Württemberg's Startup Ecosystem
00:10:20 – The Role of Universities and Businesses in Promoting Startups
00:13:08 – Business Ecosystems: How Collaboration Shapes the Future
00:16:39 – Open Innovation: Opportunities and Challenges for SMEs
00:19:00 – How Baden-Württemberg Must Transform Its Industries
00:22:31 – Why Baden-Württemberg Plays a Key Role in the Technological Future
00:25:28 – Conclusion and Outlook

| HOSTS |
Kai Kölsch, Founder and CEO of Seedbox -
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kai-kölsch-068842164/
Maja Iris Merz, Singer-Songwriter -
https://www.linkedin.com/in/maja-iris-merz-4528b21a4/

Guest:
Adrian Thoma, Co-Founder of Gründermotor and Initiator of Next Generation Mittelstand

| MORE ABOUT SEEDBOX |
https://www.seedbox.ai/

‍