AI for SMEs: MISSION KI connects companies from Schleswig-Holstein with AI startups
MISSION KI’s matchmaking program to strengthen and expand the use of artificial intelligence in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) is entering its next round. After successful events in Baden-Württemberg, Bavaria, and North Rhine-Westphalia, companies from Schleswig-Holstein are now invited to apply for participation until 31 July 2025. The program works with companies to identify their specific needs and potential use cases for AI solutions. With the support of the Schleswig-Holstein Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK), the Zukunftslabor Generative KI, and the appliedAI Institute for Europe, MISSION KI will then match participants with suitable AI startups from across Germany. On 09 September 2025, these startups and companies will meet in person at the Kiel Innovation and Technology Center (KITZ).
Identifying one’s AI needs and finding tailored solutions can be a time-consuming and resource-intensive process for many SMEs. To lower these barriers, MISSION KI supports SMEs on their path to customized AI projects. This approach has already proven successful in the program’s first edition in Baden-Württemberg: within two months after the event, most participating SMEs reported concrete cooperation projects with the AI startups they were matched with—from pilot projects and proof of concept development to long-term innovation partnerships.
At the matchmaking event on 09 September 2025 in Kiel, companies and startups will meet in 1-on-1 sessions. This direct exchange allows participants to evaluate specific application options and identify potential technology partners. For startups, the format provides exclusive access to new clients.
Manfred Rauhmeier, Chairman of the acatech Foundation:
“Through this matchmaking format, we’re connecting regional SMEs with AI startups from across Germany. The first matchmaking event, held last year in Heilbronn, was a great success, resulting in numerous collaborations and highly positive feedback. This shows that our networking format directly addresses the needs of SMEs. We have a strong mid-sized sector in Germany—and we want to provide it with concrete support. That’s why we’re excited to bring this initiative to Schleswig-Holstein. We invite regional companies to apply and take advantage of this unique opportunity."
Fabian Haushahn, Advisor for Sole Proprietors and Micro-Enterprises, IHK Kiel:
“With the Matchmaking Event by Mission KI, we are creating dedicated spaces for innovation and collaboration. Especially for medium-sized companies, it's crucial not just to understand the potential of artificial intelligence theoretically, but to experience it hands-on and translate it into concrete solutions. Direct exchange with AI startups opens up new perspectives, sparks creative ideas, and drives real innovation. At IHK Kiel, we see it as our responsibility to build these bridges and actively support Schleswig-Holstein’s economy in its digital transformation — so that our companies remain competitive and future-ready tomorrow.”
Dr. Eike J. Meyer, Zukunftslabor Generative KI für Schleswig-Holstein:
“AI holds enormous potential for small and medium-sized enterprises and is increasingly becoming the foundation for market success in our rapidly changing world. Yet many companies still don’t know how to position themselves for the future in this field. That’s exactly where we come in: we provide practical access to innovation and support SMEs in integrating AI profitably into their operations. The matchmaking event in Kiel offers the ideal setting for this: it connects medium-sized manufacturing companies from Schleswig-Holstein directly with suitable startups from across Germany – laying the foundation for sustainable AI integration and cross-regional cooperation.”
Dr. Philip Hutchinson, Senior AI Strategist at the AppliedAI Institute for Europe:
“SMEs are the backbone of our economy, but many companies face the challenge of using AI in a sensible and profitable way. To overcome these hurdles, it is crucial to combine the innovative power of German AI startups with the expertise of SMEs. Only through such cooperation can we develop practical solutions and at the same time reduce our dependence on non-European AI players.”
