AI needs structure

Round 60 participants from companies, start-ups, research and networks attended the 18 February 2026 to the 3rd Wednesday together - for the first time in the MST Factory Dortmund at PHOENIX West. The focus was on the question of what companies will really need in 2026 to not only „introduce“ artificial intelligence, but to anchor it effectively, securely and sustainably.

The host welcomed Christoph Gehlen, Head of the MST Factory Dortmund, guests in an environment that fits the theme like no other: the MST Factory Dortmund is the competence centre of the TZDO for micro- and nanotechnologies. Subsequently Dirk Stürmer, Chairman of the Management Board of TZDO, that TechnologieZentrumDortmund and its (new) centres of excellence and outlined how the TZDO as a hub in the regional innovation ecosystem.

In terms of content, three impulses brought structure to the AI debate:

Thomas Chmielnik (AIVISOR) gave an overview of the state of AI and made it clear that the first real step is often not the tool, but a AI task force. Why? Because many employees lack orientation. What can you share with AI and what not? What rules apply? Where are the risks? Especially with Data protection and risk issues Errors often occur when processes are „just“ simplified. A task force can therefore Governance rules define, Identify and prioritise use cases. 

Dr Ronny Zwinkau (ParticleART Solutions) then demonstrated a very practical approach: AI is not an end in itself. The decisive factor is the Business Case and the process behind it. Only if the process is really understood and the AI is specifically trained will it solve the right problem as required. In short: not „AI for AI's sake“, but AI as a tool for measurable benefits.

Ulrike Fischer (The desire to develop) concluded with the KRAFT model - as a compass for cooperation in change processes. KRAFT stands for Clarity, Direction, Authenticity, Guidance and Participation. After all, technology only works if the teams also support the change.

The event concluded with open networking: many discussions, new contacts and concrete points of contact. Exactly what 3rd Wednesday stands for.

Thanks to all participants and to our sponsors: Dortmund Savings Bank, Start-up centre of the Dortmund Economic Development Agency, DOKOM21, The technicians (TK) and Marx & Marx.

On 15.04. is about the Biomedizin Zentrum Dortmund more, with the question of how start-ups convince investors and what VCs are really looking for. Further information.