Max Planck Innovation GmbH
Who we are – and what we stand for
Max Planck Innovation GmbH is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Max Planck Society and is responsible for technology transfer.
We see ourselves as an interface between excellent research and entrepreneurial application. As pioneers, we accompany scientists on their journey from idea to marketable product – providing support, vision and entrepreneurial spirit. We offer future-oriented companies central access to the protected innovations of the 84 research institutes of the Max Planck Society.
With our interdisciplinary team of experts in biology, physics, chemistry, law, and business administration, we pursue the goal of making the results of cutting-edge research at the Max Planck Institutes available to society and the economy – whether through licensing or spin-offs. In doing so, we support and promote a wide variety of innovations from across the Max Planck universe – from astrophysics to cell biology. In addition, we translate research results with a social or public welfare impact into sustainable concepts – regardless of commercial objectives.
With over 210 start-ups and commercialization revenues of over €570 million, Max Planck Innovation is one of the world's leading technology transfer organizations.
Our approach: Three paths to innovation
Validation
Between research and the market, proof of feasibility is often required – whether technical, legal, or economic. We support the validation of innovative approaches through targeted programs, coaching, and financing.
We secure the results of basic research through property rights and bring them into industrial application through licensing. We accompany the entire process – from patent application to contract negotiation.
From idea to company: We support founders in developing business models, financing, and market entry. With our MAX!mize incubation program, we promote numerous projects on their way to becoming start-ups every year.
Facts & Figures
These successes make Max Planck Innovation GmbH one of the world's leading institutions in technology transfer*:
- €570 million in exploitation revenues
- Approximately 5,100 inventions supported
- Over 3,100 exploitation agreements concluded
- 200+ start-ups, of which 146 actively supported
- 7 listed companies with a market capitalization of well over €50 billion (Dec. 2025)
- Approximately 9,500 jobs created per year
Max-Planck-Innovation GmbH evaluates an average of 140 inventions, of which approximately two-thirds lead to a patent application.
You can find current figures on inventions, license agreements, spin-off projects and turnovers in our annual report.
*Since 1970, as of December 31, 2024
Contact
Max-Planck-Innovation GmbH
Arnulfstr. 58
80335 Munich
Germany
Phone: +49 89 29 09 19-0