On 20.11.2024, our working group held a full-day research day. The aim of this day was to present and discuss ongoing research and to further deepen collaboration, including across different research projects. In particular, this agenda offered the opportunity to further advance the collaboration with Johannes Paha, who has been replacing Jutta Günther as interim professor of innovation economics since October, and to provide initial impetus for joint, future research projects. The presentations showed the diversity of our working group in terms of content: Philip Kerner, Jessica Birkholz and Susanna Bolz presented research as part of the hyBit project, in which they deal with technological narratives and a sustainable energy transition using hydrogen. Enno Kohlisch presented on the topic of structural change in the automotive industry. Moritz Hennicke presented his research as part of the Mod-Block-DDR project, in which he deals with the effects of institutional change on agriculture in the GDR. Ann Hipp presented a research paper on innovation and collaboration of small and medium-sized enterprises in rural areas. Finally, Luis Carlos Castillo-Tellez presented his research on the “digital divide” between different companies.

Overall, the day provided the space for interesting presentations, detailed and critical discussions and a substantive exchange, which was greatly appreciated by all participants. We look forward to further collaboration and new future research projects!