In 2017, Miriam Haerst, together with her business partners Stefan Leonhardt, Sebastian Pammer, Stefan Fischer and Alexander Henhammer, founded the Munich high-tech startup Kumovis founded. The company has the first 3D production printer with cleanroom integration developed. We spoke to her about her motivation, her experiences and her everyday life as a founder.
What motivated you to start the company?
During my time as a research assistant at the Department of Medical Engineering at the Technical University of Munich, the question of a 3D printer for plastic implants repeatedly arose. Since the market couldn't provide a satisfactory answer, we began developing this printer ourselves. The strong response to our initial results was so motivating that one year later, we Kumovis founded.
Did you have any role models when you started your business?
I didn't have a specific role model, but I admire anyone who believes in an idea and puts it into action. This doesn't just apply to well-known people, but also to friends who have embarked on a trip around the world or written a book.
“The best ideas are those that are actually implemented”
When and where do you get the best ideas?
I enjoy attending conferences and professional events to gain new input. However, for me, the best ideas are those that are actually implemented. To refine an idea to the point where it can be successfully implemented, I find it very important to first discuss it with other people, especially my colleagues. Once a well-developed concept emerges, we move the idea forward within the company.
Your greatest talent?
I'm authentic; that's probably my greatest talent. And I think people appreciate that about me. They always know where they stand and what I stand for. This often results in loyal partnerships and networks in which we support each other – both personally and professionally.
The biggest mistake you have ever made?
While I was still pursuing my doctorate at TUM, I thought I was too scared to start a company. Now, three years later, I'm negotiating my own startup's Series A financing round and working with amazing colleagues and partners on the future of medical device manufacturing.
Your secret weapon when networking?
Probably, on the one hand, my authenticity, and on the other, a bit of perseverance. Especially when the crowd thins, the conversations become more intense and open. That's when I really enjoy networking.
Right time for Kumovis
Does it seem like a good time to start a business?
It was exactly the right time for both me personally and Kumovis. After my academic work at university, I felt a tremendous urge to work on a marketable and promising product. And fortunately, my personal commitments allowed me to take the risk of founding a company. If the founder's idea is good, in addition to this intrinsic motivation, a wide range of networks and funding instruments can help. Kumovis has received a lot of support to date, for which we are very grateful. Kumovis's rapid development over the past two years was only possible thanks to this. The conditions for founding a company are therefore currently good – as long as the idea behind it is future-oriented and solution-oriented.
The three worst prejudices you have encountered in your everyday life as a founder?
Maybe I'm too gullible for this question, but I can't think of any prejudice that I've been confronted with at the moment.
What is currently on top of your desk?
My notebook. Even though digitization is my daily companion in 3D printing, I prefer the analogue method in this area. I almost always have pen and paper handy, and I use them to jot down everything that seems important to me.
Where are you going on holiday next?
It may only be a short vacation, but it's still a good one: In October, we're off to South Tyrol for a weekend of Törggelen (traditional German festive season). Hiking combined with good food and drink with friends – pure enjoyment.
Making female role models in technology and leadership positions visible
Do you think it is important that more women start businesses in Germany?
Women do start businesses, but often as solo entrepreneurs and fewer tech startups. That's why I think it's important to highlight female role models in technology and leadership positions in general. This will hopefully embed this option in the minds of tech-savvy girls and young women, as well as their parents and friends, before or during their career choices.
Was being a female founder an advantage or a disadvantage for you?
Especially in the technical field, being one of the few women often stands out, which can be stressful on the one hand, but on the other hand can contribute to the recognition value and awareness of a company.
