When I started university, I was searching for like-minded entrepreneurs - and I found them at START. It truly changed everything for me. At START, I built my network, met lifelong friends, and even found some of my co-founders. For anyone thinking about starting a company one day, START is an absolute must.

At START Nuremberg, I organized events, led the events team, and helped grow the local startup community. I learned to manage projects, test ideas, and meet supportive people. Most importantly, I discovered my passion for entrepreneurial environments, which drives my work as a startup coach

START Nuremberg lit the entrepreneurial spark in me, which stayed with me for years. That inspiration led me to lay the foundation LucyBalu as a Co-Founder,15 years after graduation. START gave me the vision, confidence, and community to pursue my ideas and turn them into reality.

START gave me the chance to turn ideas into real-world projects, expanding my skills in leadership & project management. I led the development of a platform for START Talent, from idea validation to prototyping. START taught me to collaborate with diverse talents, encouraging a culture of innovation and creativity.

START gave me the space and platform to experiment, take ownership, lead, and grow skills I’ve used at Siemens and Microsoft, from building apps to AI projects. Small projects at START became leadership experience and a mindset for innovation, influencing my approach to problem-solving  in my professional endeavors.

START Nuremberg gave me a huge boost in connecting with like-minded young entrepreneurs. Events like Bits & Pretzels and the START Summit expanded my network and improved my entrepreneurial skills. It truly provided the platform & knowledge to turn ideas into opportunities.

Joining START Erlangen-Nürnberg helped me meet my co-founder and launch Paxon Consulting. The START Summit gave us the motivation and connections to take the leap. START Nuremberg sparked my journey and laid the foundation for Scaly Academy, where I help companies with AI training and related technologies.

At START Nürnberg, I served as president and helped co-found START Berlin. This connected me with mentors and my co-founder at Ambivation, where I’m currently acting as  Managing Director. START gave me early access to the startup ecosystem, lasting friendships, and the confidence to drive innovation.

START Nürnberg gave me the mindset, network, and confidence to act on ideas and turn them to reality .I learned the power of community and feedback. These skills guide me at the DTA Incubator, where I’m building my own startup. Presenting at the Innovation Festival showed how START shaped my leadership.

Leading START Nuremberg (2022–2023) was intense but rewarding. We built momentum, pitched bold ideas, and won over partners who believed in our vision. I learned to embrace the grind and saw how a driven team aligned around a shared purpose. This experience reshaped how I lead, think, and collaborate.

START gave me a strong platform to develop my leadership skills and explore my passion for emerging technology. It connected me with like-minded innovators who turned ideas into action. Through my journey with START, I gained invaluable insights into leadership  which have been instrumental in my professional growth.

START is like family to me—you don’t always have time to stay in touch, but when it matters, they’re there. That constant support is rare in professional life and has made a lasting impact on me. Being part of START means having a community that encourages growth, celebrates achievements and supports you all the way.

START Nuremberg helped me sharpen my vision and strengthen my storytelling by providing a supportive space to exchange ideas and receive constructive feedback. Being surrounded by driven founders gave me the clarity and momentum to keep building Belmood with confidence and purpose.

In my role as MD of Operations, I led a team for the first time, navigating conflicting interests while keeping everyone motivated and engaged. I learned to prioritize, make decisions confidently, and stand by them when needed. This pivotal experience  at START was one of my significant formative lessons.