EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

As part of our Garage course, we developed the start-up Strawbrick – an innovative business concept that combines sustainability with creative entrepreneurship. The aim of the project was to simulate the key stages of founding a company, while linking economic thinking with social responsibility. From initial idea generation and market research to the final pitch, the process emphasized hands-on learning and continuous development. The project allowed us to apply theoretical knowledge in a practical setting and strengthen our entrepreneurial skills in a realistic and collaborative environment.

Goal

The goal of our project originated from Johannes Belz, a BOKU student, who sought an ecological solution for more sustainable building materials. Prior to the course, he had already explored the potential of combining straw and lignin as a natural composite. Building on this idea, our objective was to develop a tangible product that could serve as an environmentally friendly alternative in the construction industry. This initial concept became the foundation for Strawbrick, guiding our work throughout the course.

Methodology

The professors supported us through several iterations to refine our business model and conduct various analyses. We received targeted coaching in areas such as finance and pitching, which helped strengthen our overall concept. While the course offered a high degree of freedom, there was always guidance available and an open ear for questions, creating a supportive and motivating learning environment.

Results

We made significant progress throughout the course, both technically and strategically. Johannes Belz was able to produce and press several test panels made from our raw material blend of straw and lignin in the BOKU laboratory. These served as early prototypes for our envisioned product, the Strawbrick. We are now already working on our third iteration of the prototype, steadily improving the material’s quality and potential application in sustainable construction.

Beyond product development, we were able to build a strong network within the start-up ecosystem. We engaged in meaningful conversations with several potential early-stage investors and funding programs. A major highlight was winning both the Entrepreneurship Avenue and the WU Summer Startup League, which not only gave us visibility but also provided first working capital.

In addition to these tangible outcomes, we also gained valuable soft skills in areas such as team communication, strategic thinking, and financial planning. These experiences have strengthened our overall entrepreneurial mindset and will serve us well in our future endeavors.

Currently, we are in the process of applying to several start-up funds and are actively working toward officially founding Strawbrick as a real company.

Cooperation Partner

• Strawbrick
  strawbrick.at@gmail.com
   

Contact Person

• Johannes Rammerstorfer
  johannes.rammerstorfer@s.wu.ac.at
  
  Emanuel Zeder
  Emanuel.zeder@s.wu.ac.at
   

Student Team

• Johannes Belz, Kilian Kliegel, Filip Alchevski, Emanuel Zeder, Johannes Rammerstorfer

Project Manager

• Thomas Pannermayr

• Diana Lauer

• Dragos-Cristian Vasilescu

• Caroline Kunesch