Certified Innovation Manager (CIM)

The course is designed as an online program, ensuring accessibility for participants from various time zones and those living abroad. It focuses on strategic innovation management, customer-oriented product development, and the development of innovation systems within companies. This equips participants with the skills needed to successfully implement innovation strategies in German SMEs and start-ups.

A key component of the course will be a range of multimedia tools, such as videos, animations, and real-world case studies, designed to support self-paced learning. Additionally, a series of live online sessions will facilitate direct interaction with instructors. The Moodle e-learning platform will be used to track learning progress and manage assignments digitally.

Completion of the Innovation Manager training course and the Innovation Hackathon is also a prerequisite for selection for the internship program in Germany, the free language course, and the accompanying summer school.

After completing the training sessions, participants select one of the real case studies presented by German start-ups. In the next step, participants are gathered into working groups and will develop an innovation strategy for their partner company, suggesting product, service, or process optimization opportunities to strengthen the company’s competitive position in the market.

After four weeks of preparation, the groups will present their recommendations in an online hackathon. During this period, coaching is available to support participants.

The results provide start-ups with a comprehensive understanding of the participants’ skills, allowing them to select candidates for internships in Germany after the presentations and, if necessary, through personal interviews.

This approach ensures the direct application of the knowledge gained in the CIM training through case-based problem-solving for companies in need of skilled professionals. Participants who successfully match with a start-up can proceed to the next module, which includes an internship, a free German language course, and a summer school program in Leipzig.

International academics have the unique chance to bring their theoretical knowledge to life through a hands-on 8 weeks internship in a German start-up. This experience offers participants the opportunity to:

• Acquire specialized industry knowledge by engaging in practical, real-world tasks.
• Expand professional networks within the vibrant start-up ecosystem.
• Understand the specific demands of the German start-up landscape.

This internship not only lays a strong foundation for your professional growth but also smooths the path to potential employment in the same or a similar start-up upon completion.

Participants will receive remuneration at the minimum wage level to cover their living costs during their internship in Germany.

International academics need targeted preparation for successful integration into the German job market. This preparation goes beyond language and cultural aspects, focusing on developing a deeper understanding of the expectations and requirements within Germany's vibrant start-up ecosystem as well as the labor market in general.

Key components of this preparation include:

• Gaining insight into Germany’s unique work culture and professional environment.
• Familiarizing yourself with the structures and dynamics of start-up companies in Germany.
• Understanding industry-specific practices and standards that define German start-ups.

Equipped with these insights, international professionals can navigate the German job market with confidence and thrive in its dynamic start-up landscape.