Dorothee Scharpenberg

For me, innovative technologies in the agricultural industry are a key lever for promoting a more sustainable (social, ecological, economic) and efficient agricultural economy. However, the successful use of technologies such as precision hardware and software, remote sensing, robotics and autonomous vehicles requires not only technological advances, but also a deep understanding of the business decision-making processes and challenges in the agricultural industry.

My goal is to provide both academic and practical support to entrepreneurs in the agricultural sector in order to successfully establish technological innovations on the market and develop sustainable business models.

I am particularly interested in the following topics in the context of innovative technologies in the agricultural industry:

• Adoption barriers and purchase decision factors Business models, in particular marketing strategies and financing methods
• Success factors and challenges in the transition process from conventional to innovative technologies
   

Academic education

Since February 2025, I have been pursuing a PhD at the Chair of Entrepreneurial Behaviour with a focus on technology adoption and innovation management at the Faculty of Agricultural, Nutritional and Engineering Sciences. My academic background combines sound economic and technological knowledge with a deep understanding of digital strategies (MSc. in Strategy and Digital Business). Prior to this, I completed a dual degree programme at Siemens AG. These experiences have provided me with valuable insights into global innovation processes as well as the economic and regulatory frameworks across industries.

Career milestones

Since 2022, I have been working in international strategy consulting, specialising in the food industry, software and mechanical engineering, including agricultural machinery, in Germany, the USA and Japan.

 Agricultural background

Growing up on a farm in Brandenburg, I gained early experience in plant breeding and production, seed trials and energy production.