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FAQ

What happens after I submit the completed form to INSPIRE?

The INSPIRE team reviews the information provided and discusses your request in detail at the weekly team meeting, where internal capacity is also assessed. You'll then receive an invitation to an introductory call, where we'll work together to map out concrete next steps.

When will I hear back?

You'll typically receive a response within two weeks of submitting the form, once we've reviewed it and checked our capacity.

How should I prepare for the introductory call?

We look forward to a brief, approximately 10-minute pitch about your innovation. You are welcome to bring specific questions or topics for discussion. This will help us develop a concrete roadmap together.

Which experts can the INSPIRE Team connect me with?

Depending on your needs, INSPIRE can connect you with over 30 medical specialties at UMM, as well as nursing, nursing development, clinical IT, data protection, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and experts from our INSPIRE core partners.

Is it possible to carry out projects with the aim of publication?

We are happy to review your request. In principle, research projects with the aim of publication are also possible.

I haven’t officially founded my company yet. Is collaboration with the Living Labs still possible?

Absolutely. Our model is designed to bring you on board as early as possible – ideally already at the concept or pre-seed stage. Early exchange with clinical experts and potential users in our Living Labs helps you avoid costly missteps and shape your product around real market and user needs from day one.

I'm not a startup from Mannheim. Can I still use the Living Labs?

Yes. While geographic proximity offers certain synergies, collaboration is generally just as possible for startups from other regions and countries. We’re happy to set up initial online meetings and plan on-site visits efficiently. Our network can also help with topics like temporary workspace at the CUBEX ONE startup center – more information here.

Which Living Lab is the right one for my project?

Think of us as your “partner navigator,” guiding you to the right starting point. A typical path might look like this:

  • M²AXI Usability Lab: for early concept and design validation
  • Hybrid OR / TEDIAS: for technical testing and integration into simulated workflows
  • INSPIRE Living Lab: for validation under real clinical conditions

I need feedback from medical experts but not within a clinical study – is that possible?

Yes! Early feedback is invaluable for improving acceptance and usability before you enter costly clinical testing. We’re happy to connect you with our experts – just reach out to us at kontakt@remove-this.inspire-mannheim.de.

How long does it usually take to start testing in the Living Labs after the initial inquiry?

It depends on the project’s complexity and regulatory requirements. A simple usability test can often be organized within a few weeks. For Living Lab testing involving patients or patient data, plan for at least three months’ lead time to secure ethics and data protection approvals. We work to keep these processes as efficient as possible.

My product doesn’t have CE marking yet – can I still reach out to INSPIRE?

That’s no barrier to collaboration. In fact, our Living Labs are an ideal testing environment for products that don’t yet have CE marking. We’re happy to advise you – for more information, contact us at kontakt@remove-this.inspire-mannheim.de.

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