Two startups from Siegen Receive Funding
The University of Siegen has two reasons to celebrate: In the “Start-up Transfer.NRW” funding initiative, two startup teams—DelphiCore and CLARIGEN—supported by the Entrepreneurship Center have been selected. Each startup will receive 270,000 euros. The funding is intended to enable both projects to take the next step toward market launch and underscores the potential of research-based spin-offs.
“We are very pleased that two teams we support—DelphiCore and CLARIGEN—were both successful,” says Dr. Jens Jacobs, director of connect.US at the University of Siegen. “This success demonstrates the innovation potential emerging at the University of Siegen and how important early, structured support is for startup projects.” The Entrepreneurship Center, which is part of connect.US, supports members of the University of Siegen in areas such as developing a business model, identifying and applying for suitable funding, and creating a business plan. It thus guides them through the entire startup process. Through various programs and intensive support, startup teams can develop not only technical knowledge but also relevant soft skills.
Technology for Safe Components
DelphiCore is developing a technology that enables digital monitoring of components made from high-performance materials. Through the integration of sensors and a patented calibration method, changes and stresses inside a component can be continuously monitored. This enables predictive maintenance, extends the service life of components, and increases reliability—for example, in the aerospace industry, wind energy, and industrial applications.
The research was conducted at the Chair of Materials Systems for Lightweight Vehicle Construction led by Prof. Dr. Robert Brandt at the University of Siegen. The University of Siegen filed a patent application for the technology, which forms the basis for DelphiCore’s further development. The team consists of Sascha Grindel, who has a background in electrical engineering, robotics, and automation; Sebastian Haller, who specializes in materials engineering, materials science, and sensor technology; and Sarah Steurer, who focuses on business development and strategic partnerships. Sebastian Haller is the inventor of the technology. The team is supported by Prof. Dr. Peter Kraemer, among others.
With this funding, the team aims to develop a prototype, test the technology under real-world conditions, and prepare to launch the company by 2027. The long-term goal is to bring the technology to market readiness and implement it in collaboration with industry partners.
AI Helps Prevent Stress
CLARIGEN is working on an app designed to help people better manage stress in their daily lives. At its core is an eight-week prevention program that is customized using artificial intelligence. Among other factors, the software takes into account a person’s current stress levels, available time, exercises already completed, and personal feedback from users. The goal is to suggest the most appropriate support for each situation and individual from a pool of scientifically developed exercises.
The team places particular emphasis on data protection. Sensitive information is to be processed directly on the smartphone whenever possible. The project is scientifically supervised by the Chair of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy at the University of Siegen, led by Prof. Dr. Tim Klucken. The founding team consists of Junis Balaom and Tobias Dyballa. Junis Balaom holds a bachelor’s degree in business psychology, is studying computer science, and has been active as an entrepreneur in the digital sector since 2018. Tobias Dyballa holds a master’s degree in clinical psychology and psychotherapy and is currently preparing for the licensing exam to become a psychotherapist.
