It all began at DTU in 1956 when four visionary professors founded the Institute for Product Development. At that time information was not floating as easily between universities and industries as today. IPU was founded with the purpose of being the link between DTU and companies so research could be transformed into impactful solutions for various industries. As a commercial foundation we fund projects that create technological breakthroughs and real value for society. Over the years the IPU Foundation has contributed with more than 130 million DKK to research, laboratory equipment and educational materials. These investments have strengthened the connection between researchers and industry and have supported the education of new generations of engineers.

The purpose of the IPU Foundation is to support research and development projects with a strong scientific and technical foundation that benefit Danish society and business life. We believe that new technology only creates true value when it is brought into real life. Our strategy is centered on promoting collaboration between DTU and both private and public partners, creating a stronger flow of innovation from universities to industry and supporting Denmark’s competitiveness and a more sustainable society.

In 2025 we launched a new chapter in the foundation’s history with the IPU Prize. The prize celebrates researchers who have achieved groundbreaking results with clear relevance for industry. It is our way of recognizing the people who bring new knowledge into play where it matters the most. With this prize we want to support a flow of innovation from universities to industry and strengthen sustainable development through technology.