This post is also available in: Danish
Roskilde University was created to challenge academic traditions and experiment with new ways of creating and acquiring knowledge.
The 6,900 students cultivate the project and problem-oriented approach to knowledge development. They cultivate interdisciplinarity. And they have three gateways to entrepreneurship, which you can learn more about right here:
Research-based Entrepreneurship at RUC
What is Research-based Entrepreneurship at RUC?
We leverage STEM and SHAPE research to foster knowledge- and data-heavy ‘pre-startups’ ready to bring in co-founders and pre-seed investment. We support researchers in translating their cutting-edge discoveries into viable ventures through 3-5 year-long roadmaps, spanning from classic tech patents to repeatable consulting services that become products.
What difference does it make for researchers?
The journey towards innovation is a demanding elite sport for teams, where less than 5 per cent succeed. By joining forces with brilliant minds from across the country through Open Entrepreneurship, we strive to be the best local Team Coach for each research group. When entering a new sport, all teams need both a game plan and a friendly face that believes in them when it gets tough and they run out of money. We are that person.
FabLab RUC
What is FabLab RUC?
FabLab at RUC is a state-of-the-art space for rapid prototyping and digital fabrication focusing on creative learning. It is an open Lab for all, so you don’t have to be a student or researcher at RUC. It offers tools such as 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC machines, and electronics workstations, allowing users to bring innovative concepts to life. The lab emphasizes hands-on experimentation in various fields, making it a hub for developing new technological solutions.
What difference does it make for students and researchers?
FabLab gives students and researchers direct access to high-tech equipment that fosters creativity and innovation. By prototyping ideas in a real-world setting, they gain practical skills while pushing the boundaries of their research and learning. This environment supports interdisciplinary collaboration, enhancing problem-solving abilities and translating theoretical knowledge into tangible outcomes. Students also gain critical exposure to design thinking and digital manufacturing, which is essential in today’s technology-driven economy.
RUC Open Entrepreneurship Lab
Hvad er RUC Open Entrepreneurship Lab (RUC OE-Lab)?
The RUC OE-Lab helps RUC student startups navigate the challenges of the early development phase and increase their chances of success. The lab coordinates the entrepreneurial strategy across all departments at Roskilde University, which aims to ensure that all students have the opportunity to acquire the skills and tools to start a business, both while they are students and after they graduate.
In practice, EUC OE-Lab provides access to networks, mentors, funding, office space, workshops and collaborative projects – everything entrepreneurs need.
What difference does it make for students and researchers?
RUC OE-Lab motivates students to develop solutions based on the research they conduct in their university projects with strong scientific foundations. In addition, RUC E-Lab is home to the entrepreneurial ecosystem, which brings together RUC’s teachers, students and partners, and other startups that are geographically close to RUC.
Examples of RUC startups and spinouts:
Several student-run startups have emerged from RUC – including Hicom (Business Knowledge Management Consultancy), Peacock (PR & Marketing), Komfid (patented lid that reduces the risk of drugging), Autoshopper (online platform), Handyhand (P2P Marketplace).
RUC only initiated its dedicated spinout hub in 2020. Since then, it has built a strong portfolio of 10 cases and expects to spin out three companies in the near future.