After completing my PhD in Physics (1999) in the field of solar energy, a career in renewable energy seemed the obvious choice. However, I chose to pursue an opportunity at the University of Freiburg's Faculty of Engineering, where I focused on applied life science research and technology transfer. Over the next 25 years, I worked intensively with companies and became increasingly involved in the startup world.

I co-founded three companies: BioFluidix (2005), Cytena (2014), and Actome (2017). In addition to my academic work, I was CEO of BioFluidix for ten years and gained extensive experience in bootstrapping and leading a company. With Cytena, which I co-founded with two PhD students, we built a venture capital-backed company that ultimately resulted in a successful exit. Although these projects were very successful financially and created new jobs, I realized that the prevailing, "extractive" way of doing business is neither fair nor sustainable.

Inspired by thinkers like Herman Daley, David Graeber, Thomas Piketty, and Jason Hickel, I delved into post-growth economics and non-extractive business models. My motivation is to support companies that operate sustainably, treat people and resources fairly, and contribute to society in line with the Sustainable Development Goals.

Today, I leverage my knowledge, experience, and financial resources as a business angel and mentor. I invest in steward-owned companies and seek collaborations with like-minded networks, including Generous Minds. This is due to the Minds' strong global network and impressive track record. This allows me to increase my own impact. My ambition is to work with Generous Minds to help entrepreneurs build fair and future-proof businesses, thus contributing to a more sustainable and just economy.