Successful event shows: Error culture is becoming an important success factor in the regional start-up scene
On January 21, 2026, the first Fuck Up Night took place at the Einstein1 digital start-up center in Hof. More than 50 participants from the regional start-up and business scene accepted the invitation to find out first-hand what happens when business ideas don’t go as planned – and what valuable insights can be gained from such moments.
The evening was jointly organized by the StartUpLab at Hof University of Applied Sciences, gründernet GmbH, the digital start-up center Einstein1 and Wirtschaftsregion Hochfranken e.V. The format, in which entrepreneurs and founders talk openly about their setbacks, is well received worldwide and is increasingly establishing itself as an important tool for promoting a constructive culture of failure.
Four speakers shared their personal experiences with the audience: Nadine Keßler from Abri ground, Dirk Behling from The Orange Spot, Fenja Petersen from Petersen. and Hannes Siegeris from HeYJu GmbH gave unvarnished insights into moments in which their projects did not take the course they had hoped for. Instead of presenting success stories, the focus was on the challenges, turning points and, above all, the lessons learned.
from left to right front: Sigena Süßmann (Wirtschaftsregion Hochfranken e.V.), Fenja Petersen (Petersen.), Nadine Keßler (Abri ground); Image: Wirtschaftsregion Hochfranken e.V.
In the subsequent panel discussion, participants had the opportunity to ask questions and contribute their own perspectives. The exchange clearly showed that failure is not a taboo, but a necessary part of entrepreneurial activity that makes innovation and further development possible in the first place.
After the keynote speeches and the panel discussion, the guests took the opportunity to exchange ideas over snacks and drinks. The relaxed atmosphere provided space for in-depth discussions and new contacts within the regional economy.
The high response to the event underlines the need for open formats that offer space for authentic experiences beyond classic success narratives. The organizers see Fuck Up Night as an important contribution to strengthening the regional start-up culture and plan to continue the format.
