A new milestone in tech transfer at IFW Dresden
The IFW validation program IQ@IFW – the only one of its kind in Saxony – has officially launched. Funded by the Saxon Ministry of Economic Affairs (SMWA), this institutional program supports scientists at IFW in bringing their research closer to application through structured innovation validation.
The goal: to reduce uncertainty, accelerate development, and make outstanding material and technology-based innovations market-ready. IQ@IFW combines funding (up to €100,000), expert mentoring, and an easy-to-access support process — no competitive pitches required.
First funded project: CLAPsense – measuring liquid helium levels without waste
CLAPsense (Cryo Level Acoustic Probe Sensor) is the first innovation to receive support through IQ@IFW’s Impact Module. It addresses a real-world need: energy-efficient, wireless level monitoring in cryogenic gas tanks (e.g., helium or LH2) – where traditional sensors often fail or waste resources.
The project team has already built a working lab prototype and secured two patents. The funding will help them take the next steps: develop low-cost electronics, validate the market need with partners, and build a customer-ready demonstrator.
Dr.-Ing. Thomas Windisch from IFF Surface Dynamics at IFW says about the program:
"IQ@IFW has great potential. Expanding basic research by application-oriented aspects makes it possible to discover relevant fields of action and thus bring innovative technologies closer to market maturity in a targeted manner.“
What makes IQ@IFW unique?
Only in Saxony: IQ@IFW is an exclusive pilot program for IFW Dresden.
Modular structure: Choose between the Fast Move (€12k) or Impact Module (€100k).
Based on IRL: Progress is measured using the Innovation Readiness Level framework (TRL, CRL, BRL, TMRL, IPRL).
Low-threshold process: No competition — ideas are evaluated based on maturity and potential.
Online tools: The new WTT website offers a self-assessment, idea check, and application support.
Application process
Submit your idea online here, discuss your concept in a consultation, and pitch your plan to the Validation Board — a panel of internal and external experts from science, IP, entrepreneurship, and market strategy. If approved, you’ll receive support within 3–4 weeks.
