Launch a Lab

Get started by informing the Falling Walls Lab team (lab@falling-walls.com) about your interest in organising a local Falling Walls Lab event. The Falling Walls Foundation does not demand any licencing fees; however, international Lab organisers must maintain a high standard in the planning and execution of a Falling Walls Lab to safeguard the competition’s integrity.

Decide on key details such as the location, date, and application period to ensure a successful and impactful Falling Walls Lab.

A Falling Walls Lab must be organised by an academic institution/science academy or in cooperation with an academic institution or science academy as its main partner (e.g. the German Academic Exchange Service).
Falling Walls does not cover event expenses. Keep costs low by acquiring sponsors with final approval from Falling Walls.

Secure a venue with a video projector, accommodating around 100 seats for presenters, jury, media, and the audience.

Invite a diverse pool of Bachelor’s and Master’s students, PhD candidates, post-docs, and early career professionals to apply. Use various channels for distribution and start early to attract a minimum of 15 participants.

Applications are collected through the Falling Walls website. Your Lab’s committee selects presenters from the final list provided by Falling Walls.

Assemble a jury of at least five respected members from academia and business, ensuring a balance in discipline and gender. Appoint a jury chair and provide a briefing on the jury’s role and the evaluation criteria.

Each presenter gets three minutes and three PowerPoint slides. Appoint a moderator for time management. The event is open to the public.

The winner qualifies for the global finale in Berlin, gaining access to an exclusive extended programme.

Falling Walls Lab is more than a competition – it’s fun! Bring together bright minds with groundbreaking ideas and enjoy the journey!