What AwaitsYou On #FTF25
Curated areas invite you to discover innovation, connect with thought leaders and exchange ideas – each space is designed to drive meaningful encounters and future collaboration.
Vertical Oriented Expo
Vertical Areas allow for easier exploration.
We are introducing curated spaces that bundle exhibitors by theme – our new Vertical Areas: from GreenTech and HR Tech to Insur + FinTech, Smart Manufacturing, Space + DeepTech, and CreativeTech, each area brings together the most relevant players and innovations in its field.
Making it easier for you to explore and connect with the right people faster than ever before,while creating targeted visibility for the startups.
Venture Client Area
Meet ERGO, 27pilots and leading Venture Client Units from Energy, mobility, insurtech, Greentech and more.
This area brings together corporate venture client units and startups ready to solve real business challenges. It’s the go-to spot for forging pilot-ready partnerships, sharing best practices, and accelerating innovation—without the need for equity investment.
Our two main partners for the venture client area are ERGO with its stage and best practice cases and 27pilots with its lounge including matchmaking and their pre event.
Mittelstand Area
Driving innovation in the heart of the German Mittelstand.
This space brings together decision-makers from SMEs, startups and industry experts to foster innovation formats in this specific industry group. The collaboration of IHK, BVWM, British Business Club and other players allows to tailor a program that is dedicated to meet the needs and co-create solutions for the future of the Mittelstand.
Community Area
Where innovation meets exchange.
This is the place to connect with thought leaders: Top notch politicians, strong academia landscape, thriving startups, country representatives and investors. Expect inspiring talks, hands-on formats and the opportunity to shape the future of technology.
SHE Stage
SHE Innovates is growing – own area and stage.
Your dedicated space for inspiration, raw stories, and meaningful networking — designed by women, powered by community, and welcoming all genders who support female-driven innovation. This is more than a stage. It's a movement. Don’t miss Christina Richter’s live Q&A on the key lessons behind her journey. Powered by KPMG.
Networking Lounge
Our lounge for networking.
In our Networking Lounge, you will meet exciting contacts in 1:1 conversations: All participants, investors, company representatives and startups can make appointments via our matchmaking app Talque.
Power Corner
Your retreat at the FTF.
Between inspiring talks, intense conversations, and exciting program highlights, you sometimes need a moment to catch your breath. That’s exactly what the Power Corner is for – your relaxed retreat in the midst of the event’s hustle and bustle, with the chance to take that one important call or tackle urgent to-dos in peace.
Our formats offer structured ways to engage with innovation – from curated Venture Client Tracks and Startup Pitch Battles to Guided Tours that provide fresh perspectives on key topics and exhibitors.
Venture Client Track
Meet Your Innovation Match.
At Future Tech Fest, 27pilots organize a venture client matchmaking: Startups and corporates pre-register, the servicer provider uses a software to suggest relevant matches and arranges scheduled meetings during the event in the venture client area. This enables targeted, efficient interactions where startups pitch solutions directly to corporates seeking innovation partners.
Investor Matchmaking
Where capital meets innovation.
Over the day this fast-paced speed dating format, startups of all maturity stages meet national and international investors for focused, face-to-face exchanges. Legal experts from Heuking provide on-site support on financing and deal terms, while investors gain early access to promising ventures from one of Germany’s most dynamic startup regions.
Mentor meets Mentee
Mentorship that moves you forward.
Throughout the day at the Mittelstands Area, experienced entrepreneurs and mid-cap executives meet one-on-one with first-time founders to share practical advice, real-world insights, and strategic guidance. The goal: meaningful connections that accelerate startup growth and open doors to collaboration across the innovation ecosystem.
Powered by British Business Club.
Co-Founder Matching
Find your perfect match to launch your startup.
At this structured 1.5-hour matchmaking format, founders with ideas meet aspiring co-founders from across NRW’s top universities and the tech ecosystem. With support from partners like HHU, HSD, and expert input from Carbon13, participants connect, pitch, and build strong founding teams to turn ideas into ventures.
Table Captains
Deepen knowledge in exclusive discussion rounds.
In small rounds you can take an in-depth look at a chosen topic, led by an experts in their field. This is a unique opportunity for you to delve deeper into exciting topics, gain insights from industry leaders and connect to peers.
Workshops
Roll up your sleeves and
learn from the best.
At the Workshop Stage, industry experts share valuable know-how, practical tools, and lessons learned from real-world experience. Expect interactive sessions where you can ask questions, contribute your perspective, and take away actionable ideas for your own journey.
This is the most fun part of FTF, and we promise there will be tons of networking and parties.
Aftershow Party
Let's celebrate FTF together.
What is an event without an Aftershow Party? We also think: Such a great day has to be celebrated. We have music acts in store for you to let the evening end in a cool atmosphere.
FTF meets Art
Get inspired by our art exhibition.
A full day at the expo, packed with exciting startups and valuable insights, can be a lot to take in. That’s why we’re bringing you a change of pace. Take a moment to pause and recharge with a curated art exhibition by a artist – a space to reflect, be inspired, and experience creativity from a different angle.
_bearbeitet_1080x1080%20(1).webp)
