THINK & DO TANK. IT'S STORMARN. KNOWLEDGE SHARED. KNOWLEDGE SQUARED

22.08.2023: Strong value creation networks, excellent research and efficient infrastructures are key factors when it comes to restoring innovative capacity. In particular, cooperation between companies, start-ups, research and science, but also politics and administration, helps to master the ever-increasing complexity.

At the end of August, we invited employees from 10 partner companies from Stormarn to our kick-off event at the Stormarn District Vocational School in Ahrensburg to put their heads together and work on four different topics in a workshop. Under the motto "IT'S STORMARN. KNOWLEDGE SHARED. KNOWLEDGE SQUARED.", we want to deepen trust between companies and other organisations through openness and transparency - as a basis for future knowledge exchange.

The event was opened by District Administrator Dr Henning Görtz, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of WAS, our Managing Director Ulf Hahn and Thomas Piehl, Chairman of the Management Board of Sparkasse Holstein and Deputy Chairman of the Supervisory Board of WAS.

Afterwards, Prof Dr Oliver Gassmann, Professor of Innovation Management at the University of St. Gallen and one of the world's leading innovation researchers, inspired the audience with an exciting presentation on the topic of "How can the German innovation gap be overcome?". He reported on how innovative other countries are now and at what levels they can take action. This provided initial impetus for the upcoming joint workshop.

After a joint lunch, the afternoon started with IT'S STORMARN speed dating to get to know the participants better. This was followed by the opening of the four challenges, which were dedicated to the topics of talent development, innovation and sustainable competitiveness.

This generated initial impetus and ideas, which are now being processed and transferred into potential projects. Together, we can work on strengthening our region and reducing innovation gaps.
We were delighted that the companies from Stormarn took part and would like to thank the Stormarn district vocational school for their hospitality.