Projects with industry partners offer researchers many advantages: They make research questions more application-oriented, enable the validation of methods and results using real data or actual processes, and accelerate implementation in practice (e.g., through pilot projects, feasibility studies, or field tests). 

In addition, they often provide faster access to networks, data sources, and target groups, which enhances scientific quality and relevance. 

Sponsorship should also be viewed as a type of contract research project . 

In this context, you can carry out funded projects or commissioned projects. 

Funded projects (e.g., through public funding such as EFRE or BMFTR):

The goal is often to increase knowledge or evidence and to develop new solutions. Funding criteria and milestones are generally more strictly defined. Scientific utilization and/or transfer must be demonstrated. 

Learn more here about:

• Grant Application Guidance

• Funding opportunities (funding database
  and federal funding advice)

• Project administration

Contract researchprojects: 

In this context, a company or institution commissions the university to perform a specifically defined service (e.g., a study, software module, or measurement campaign). This also includes services provided by laboratories and expert reports. The focus is more on client-specific results; funding comes primarily from the contract itself, not through grant programs. Projects are often subject to confidentiality agreements and always require separate accounting.

Learn more here about:

• Separate accounting

• Project administration