The best way to learn about starting a business is directly from those who have walked the path before you. Founder Talks is a relaxed, open-door peer learning and networking event hosted by KIT FORGE at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT). Designed as a friendly, low-barrier entry point into the local startup world, the series brings experienced founders to campus to share their authentic, unvarnished entrepreneurial journeys.
Instead of polished success pitches or corporate slides, these talks focus on real-world perspectives: the initial spark of an idea, late-night doubts, unexpected setbacks, and the hard-won lessons that truly matter in the end. Whether you are actively planning your own venture or simply curious about startup life, you are welcome to drop in.
Event format & key elements
- Founder keynote: A candid story of building a venture from the ground up, highlighting genuine challenges, pivots, and personal growth.
- Interactive Q&A session: Direct, open floor discussion allowing audience members to ask candid questions about funding, product-market fit, and founder resilience.
- Ecosystem networking: Casual post-talk gathering connecting aspiring student founders, researchers, and alumni with active ecosystem players over refreshments.
Have questions or interested? Get in touch!
