The Innovation Office

The Innovation Office of the University of Münster, established in 1984, was one of the first of its kind in Germany. Its original purpose was to present the University's research at education and science fairs. The Innovation Office broadened its scope of activities quickly. 
Today the Innovation Office provides support and advice on patents, transfers knowledge into society and economy and is building regional as well as international collaborations and networks. The Innovation Office is managed by an international team with a broad array of scientific and academic expertise.
Some of the most memorable milestones in the development of the AFO in recent years include the invention of Idea Mining, the founding of MUIMUM (Münster University International Model United Nations), and the establishment of the civic-research oriented Expedition Münsterland.
In the decades of knowledge transfer, third-party funds totalling more than ten million euros were raised, more than 300 000 citizens took part in the expeditions, over 250 start-ups were supported and more than 200 Idea Minings were carried out. Four Times the Innovation was awarded with "Ausgezeichnete Orte im Land der Ideen".