For the fifth time at BioCampus Cologne: November 05, 2025 - AXOLOTL Med & Health Business Plan Competition Awards Ceremony

On November 5, we were once again able to host this inspiring format — a day full of strong ideas, impressive pitches and valuable networking. It was a great pleasure for us to set the stage for innovation and entrepreneurial spirit in the MedTech and Health scene.

What is behind the AXOLOTL competition?

The AXOLOTL Med & Health Business Plan Competition is one of the leading platforms for founders in medicine, health and life sciences. It helps start-ups present their business ideas to experts, receive feedback and make important contacts. The aim is to make innovations visible that improve tomorrow's healthcare.

Why “axolotl” — and what does the logo mean?

The name of the competition is inspired by axolotl, a Mexican crosstailed newt (Ambystoma mexicanum), which is known for its exceptional ability to regenerate. It can regrow entire limbs and even parts of organs — a symbol of healing, adaptability and innovation.
It is precisely these characteristics that are decisive for tomorrow's healthcare industry. The logo of the competition shows the axolotl stylized and makes this message visible: Founders who break new ground, develop solutions and shape healthcare need the courage to change and the ability to adapt.

Who is behind the competition?

The AXOLOTL Med & Health business plan competition is organized by per Ruhr region e.V. and the Runway Ruhr GmbH —two key players in start-up support and the healthcare sector.

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The format is supported by a strong network of partners and sponsors, including:

• NRW.BANK
• High-Tech Gründerfonds
• MedEcon Ruhr
• as well as numerous experts who are involved as mentors and jury members.

The common goal: to put innovative business ideas with market potential in a promising starting position and to promote the founding and settlement of pioneering companies in the medical and healthcare industries.

The 2025 winners:

🥇 Softletics —self-adaptable prostheses with a high level of comfort

‍
🥈Eberlein Health — smart eye pressure meter for glaucoma patients

‍
🥉MeSensors GmbH — sensor-based surgical instruments

‍

🏅 CENIOS GmbH —Special prize from MedECon Ruhr for their point-of-care testing technology for drug analysis

‍

We warmly congratulate all prize winners and thank the organizing team — Ute Günther, Sarah Mike and Anja Montag — for their professional implementation.

We were particularly pleased with the large number of guests who enriched the day with their perspectives and discussions. Such events are a real highlight for the location and the community.

We are already looking forward to the next time — again at BioCampus Cologne!

‍

For the fifth time at BioCampus Cologne: November 05, 2025 - AXOLOTL Med & Health Business Plan Competition Awards Ceremony

On November 5, we were once again able to host this inspiring format — a day full of strong ideas, impressive pitches and valuable networking. It was a great pleasure for us to set the stage for innovation and entrepreneurial spirit in the MedTech and Health scene.

What is behind the AXOLOTL competition?

The AXOLOTL Med & Health Business Plan Competition is one of the leading platforms for founders in medicine, health and life sciences. It helps start-ups present their business ideas to experts, receive feedback and make important contacts. The aim is to make innovations visible that improve tomorrow's healthcare.

Why “axolotl” — and what does the logo mean?

The name of the competition is inspired by axolotl, a Mexican crosstailed newt (Ambystoma mexicanum), which is known for its exceptional ability to regenerate. It can regrow entire limbs and even parts of organs — a symbol of healing, adaptability and innovation.
It is precisely these characteristics that are decisive for tomorrow's healthcare industry. The logo of the competition shows the axolotl stylized and makes this message visible: Founders who break new ground, develop solutions and shape healthcare need the courage to change and the ability to adapt.

Who is behind the competition?

The AXOLOTL Med & Health business plan competition is organized by per Ruhr region e.V. and the Runway Ruhr GmbH —two key players in start-up support and the healthcare sector.

‍
The format is supported by a strong network of partners and sponsors, including:

• NRW.BANK
• High-Tech Gründerfonds
• MedEcon Ruhr
• as well as numerous experts who are involved as mentors and jury members.

The common goal: to put innovative business ideas with market potential in a promising starting position and to promote the founding and settlement of pioneering companies in the medical and healthcare industries.

The 2025 winners:

🥇 Softletics —self-adaptable prostheses with a high level of comfort

‍
🥈Eberlein Health — smart eye pressure meter for glaucoma patients

‍
🥉MeSensors GmbH — sensor-based surgical instruments

‍

🏅 CENIOS GmbH —Special prize from MedECon Ruhr for their point-of-care testing technology for drug analysis

‍

We warmly congratulate all prize winners and thank the organizing team — Ute Günther, Sarah Mike and Anja Montag — for their professional implementation.

We were particularly pleased with the large number of guests who enriched the day with their perspectives and discussions. Such events are a real highlight for the location and the community.

We are already looking forward to the next time — again at BioCampus Cologne!

‍