Attention tech startups and entrepreneurs! Don't miss out on these must-attend summer conferences.
By Chiara Breedijk
As the sun emerges from its cloudy cover, the intermediate coat finds its way back to the closet, and vibrant flowers adorn the landscape, this is a sign that the gentle transition from spring to summer is here. But summer isn't just about backyard barbecues, leisurely vacations, and refreshing swims. It's also the prime time for a myriad of business events and conferences, crucial opportunities that startups like yours won't want to overlook. Whether you're absorbing insights from fellow entrepreneurs and thought leaders or actively engaging as a speaker or exhibitor, attending events offers invaluable opportunities. Whatever your reason for participating is, you are bound to glean valuable insights and experiences.
May
7 - 8, in Hamburg, Germany
Picture this: Kim Kardashian, Verana Pausder, Rick Rubin, and other influential people coming together for a digital extravaganza like no other. OMR is an information galore, inspiration overload, and networking nirvana—all wrapped up in one epic event. With top-notch speakers, multiple stages, masterclasses, a two-day trade fair, side events, and guided tours. Last year, over 70,000 visitors visited the Hamburg Messe for this event. Trust us, this is THE event of the year you won't want to miss!
15 - 17, in Berlin, Germany
Step into a greener world at the GreenTech Festival—an unmissable event for companies and tech specialists passionate about sustainability. With three action-packed days, 20,000 eager visitors, 250 exhibitors, and 200 speakers, this festival is a beacon of green innovation. At the GreenTech Festival, you will celebrate every step towards a more conscious and sustainable future. From cutting-edge technologies to impactful discussions, this is where companies and tech specialists come together to drive real change for a better tomorrow.
27 - 29, in Berlin, Germany
"Who cares?" - That's the rallying cry for this year's festival of the digital society. Get ready for re:publica 24, happening at STATION Berlin. As Europe's largest digital society festival, re:publica draws a diverse array of participants from all corners of society. From professionals in economics, politics, and business to representatives of hacker culture, NGOs, media, and marketing, along with bloggers, activists, artists, and social media experts, it's like a diverse perspective in the galaxy of re:publica.
re:publica provides a unique opportunity for tech startups and entrepreneurs to engage with a diverse community, gain exposure, advocate for their ideas, and continue learning and growing in an inclusive and supportive environment. Last year around 25,000 visitors came to the event. Are you ready to join this event?
June
4 - 7, in Berlin, Germany
Tech Open Air began as the world's pioneering crowdfunded festival and has since blossomed into a vibrant community of over 20,000 like-minded technology enthusiasts convening in Berlin every summer. CEOs from Reddit, Hello Fresh, Klarna, and Delivery Hero have already given impressive talks. TOA (Tech Open Air) has evolved into a bustling hub for tech enthusiasts worldwide, gathering in Berlin each summer.
This year's event is driven by the spirit of deep tech innovation, continuing its tradition of placing innovation at the forefront. Expect a dynamic showcase of revolutionary advancements in climate tech, health tech, synBio, web3, and AI—each poised to shape our future. Over four exhilarating days, Tech Open Air offers tech startups and entrepreneurs a unique chance to connect, gain insights from industry leaders, present their innovations, stay abreast of the latest technologies, and immerse themselves in an atmosphere charged with innovation and creativity.
Handelsblatt Summit Zukunft IT 2024
10 - 12, Munich, Germany
Circle June 10th to 12th on your calendar because Munich is about to host something monumental—the Handelsblatt Summit Zukunft IT 2024! Presented by one of Germany's leading news outlets, this multi-day affair is your golden ticket to staying ahead in the ever-changing realm of IT. Last year saw 850 participants and 17 speakers tackling the burning issues that keep CIOs, CDOs, and CEOs up at night.
From gaining insights and building networks to accessing industry expertise and securing partnerships, the event offers a wealth of opportunities to propel startup success in the dynamic world of technology. On the agenda for 2024 are hot topics like Artificial Intelligence, Cloud Transformation, and Cybersecurity. So, if you're ready to level up your startup game, mark your calendar and join the Summit Zukunft IT 2024!
13, Bielefeld, Germany
3 words, 18 letters, HINTERLAND OF THINGS. The Hinterland of Things Conference wants you to join them for a day full of meeting new people and new ideas.
Why attend the HINTERLAND OF THINGS conference? It's not just about talks; it's about experiencing innovation firsthand. The heart of their mission is cutting-edge formats, showcased through a dynamic two-stage program. Explore the exhibition area and engage with emerging B2B Tech startups, uncovering AI, Blockchain, and Big Data solutions poised to transform industries. Don't miss out on the networking opportunities—connect with industry leaders, collaborators, and investors—all in one dynamic event, available for 2500 attendees.
27 - 28, Berlin, Germany
While many previous events have focused on AI, technology, and business, the upcoming HORIZONT Kongress in Berlin will shift its attention to a critical industry topic: the impact of social media on democracy,
Hosted by the prominent marketing and advertising magazine HORIZONT, this congress delves into pressing issues within marketing, advertising, and media. Last year's event drew a significant number of visitors, and this year's gathering promises valuable insights into digital marketing trends, advertising strategies, and media innovations. It also offers networking opportunities with industry leaders, policymakers, and experts, enabling startups to navigate the evolving digital landscape and its ethical considerations effectively.
July
WeAreDevelopers World Congress
17 - 19, in Berlin, Germany
The WeAreDevelopers World Congress is Europe's premier gathering for developers, providing unmatched insights into cutting-edge trends and the future of software development. Don't miss your opportunity to enrich your skills and broaden your expertise in crafting outstanding software and products. In 2023, the event brought together over 12,000 developers and 500 speakers from 100+ countries in Berlin, fostering idea exchange and connections among like-minded peers. With 15 stages and 40,000 m² of expo and experience spaces, there's plenty to explore and discover.
August
August, the month when events and conferences take a vacation because everyone else is! It's like they're all lounging on a beach somewhere, sipping cocktails with tiny umbrellas, waiting for September to come around so they can strut their stuff once more 🏖️🍹
September
29 September - 1 October, in Munich, Germany
Ever heard of combining a conference with Oktoberfest? Well, that's exactly what Bits and Pretzels does, and we just couldn't resist being a part of it, even if it means bending our own rules a bit. Sure, September might not technically be summer, but who can argue that an 'after summer' isn't just as delightful? All jokes aside, this event is too significant to overlook. Bits & Pretzels brings together 5,000 founders, investors, and industry leaders for three days packed with learning, networking, and business opportunities, all amidst the lively atmosphere of Munich Oktoberfest. With hundreds of startups, investors, and corporates attending every year, Bits & Pretzels recognizes that meaningful connections aren't made from behind a desk. So why spend weeks on business lunches and investor meetings when you can accomplish all your networking goals in just three days?
As we conclude this event lineup, it's time to prepare for another cosmic journey into the realm of technology conferences. If you're intrigued by these events and eager to explore potential speaking slots or promotional opportunities for your company, take the next step toward establishing yourself as a thought leader and public speaker in the tech industry. For comprehensive information on how to get involved in these exciting 2025 events, contact Can Gezer, Client Service Director and Brand Consultant, at can.gezer@laika.berlin. Delve into specific opportunities, including speaking engagements and harnessing media interest to maximize your involvement.