Exploring Indian Culture, Innovation & Entrepreneurship
The DLAB Experience in Mumbai 2025
In December 2025, five DLAB students had the opportunity to travel to the vibrant city of Mumbai for one week. During the trip, they visited innovative Indian start-ups, participated in events at the Indian Institute of Technology, and developed their own start-up ideas. A variety of cultural experiences and leisure activities rounded off the journey.
Startup & Industry Insights in Mumbai
During the trip, our DLAB group explored two innovative start-ups in Mumbai. At ideaForge, students experienced live drone demonstrations and learned how advanced robotics are applied across industries. At Sportz Interactive, they gained insights into how data analytics and digital solutions are shaping fan engagement in sports tech. These visits offered firsthand perspectives on entrepreneurial ecosystems and emerging technologies rooted in the Indian market.
Academic Exchange & Venture Development
Two days at the Indian Institute of Technology, Mumbai deepened our understanding of research and entrepreneurship in India. After an inspiring session with a PhD student, participants joined a panel discussion with experts from TU Dortmund, NYU and IIT Bombay, exchanging ideas on innovation and international collaboration. Building on this, the group worked on identifying business opportunities, refined their start-up concepts in mentoring sessions, and pitched to a jury, receiving valuable feedback and new perspectives.
Cultural Immersion & Shared Experiences
Beyond professional engagement, the trip offered rich cultural experiences that brought the group closer to India’s heritage. Students joined a traditional Indian dance performance, took part in a hands-on cooking class, and visited the historic Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These moments of cultural exchange allowed participants to reflect on their learnings, form lasting connections, and appreciate the diverse social fabric of Mumbai.
In Conclusion
The DLAB trip to Mumbai combined startup insights, academic exchange, and cultural immersion into a unique international learning experience. It challenged perspectives, inspired new ideas, and strengthened global connections that will continue to shape the students’ entrepreneurial thinking beyond the journey.
This is what our DLAB participants say about their trip to Mumbai:
„Visiting Mumbai was an unforgettable and enriching experience. The trip provided valuable insights into entrepreneurship through visits to two Indian start-ups and a panel discussion at IIT Bombay. Engaging with different perspectives and cultures made the experience especially inspiring. Alongside the academic program, discovering Indian culture through a cooking class, a dance performance, a Dharavi tour, and the Elephanta Caves made this journey truly unique and meaningful.“
Timo
„The DLAB India trip to Mumbai was an unforgettable and inspiring experience that gave me valuable insights into a culture that was entirely new to me. Exploring educational and business environments, engaging with local students and professionals, and gaining insights into the everyday lives of locals was truly eye-opening. This journey broadened my mindset, challenged my perspectives, and deepened my appreciation for cultural diversity and international collaboration.“
Hanna
„Visiting Mumbai and diving into its startup culture was incredibly exciting. It was very inspiring to see how entrepreneurship thrives in such a fast-moving city full of bold ideas, constant momentum, and people building solutions at impressive speed. Beyond the founder stories and innovation hubs, Mumbai itself was unforgettable, with its vibrant streets, contrasts, and energy. I’m really grateful for this experience and would highly recommend applying for this opportunity!“
Emma
„The DLAB Mumbai Trip was an exciting and eye-opening experience that offered unique insights into a different entrepreneurial ecosystem. Seeing innovation in action, developing our own start-up ideas, and experiencing the city’s culture and vibrant energy made the journey inspiring, enriching, and truly unforgettable.“
Hannes
„Visiting Mumbai with DLAB has been an incredible experience and offered insights far beyond a typical travel destination. The program combined visits to start-ups, the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, and a guided tour of Dharavi, providing a comprehensive view of India’s entrepreneurial, academic, and social landscape. In addition, exploring Mumbai’s cultural highlights, from the Elephanta Caves to local bazaars, enriched our understanding of the city’s diversity and energy. Equally memorable were the shared moments outside the program, including cultural shows, local cuisine, and personal celebrations. I would highly recommend this experience to all DLAB participants seeking meaningful international exposure.“
Theresa
Discover more about the DLAB initiatives and the TU Dortmund – IIT Bombay partnership.