The aim of the competition is to encourage German universities, universities of applied sciences and other (non-) university research institutions to develop international research marketing concepts. Activities should be oriented towards research demands with respect to advancing international visibility and incoming mobility of researchers. These activities should be designed to enhance Germany's visibility as a strong, attractive research location and partner in the global research system.

The Ideas Competition – which is part of the governmental initiative “Research in Germany” funded by the BMBF – rewards international research marketing concepts developed by universities, universities of applied sciences and other (non-) university research institutions. The prizes of €25,000 and €100,000 will be presented for activities that seek to enhance the visibility and appeal of German research abroad and/or attract both highly qualified early career and established researchers to participate in collaborative projects or to visit Germany for research purposes. The prizes will be provided through special funds from the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF).