2018 was an eventful year. And the startup and digital scene once again had a lot to offer. This includes the many events that once again addressed various future topics and entrepreneurial issues. Munich Startup made sure to attend a few conferences this year and gain an insight into the future and the scene. We take a look back and present you with a brief list of the events we were able to attend and the insights they provided.
We begin our list with an event that took place practically on our doorstep. MUSTIn 2018, the Munich Summit, for the third consecutive year, pursued the goal of connecting leading tech startups with established technology companies, investors, and academics. From February 20 to 22, MUST once again welcomed the latest generation of outstanding ideas and brought them together with the most important players in the Bavarian ecosystem.
SXSW, Berlin startup spirit and Viennese pioneering work
We then had to travel a little further in March. The legendary South by Southwest festival in Austin, Texas, opened its doors and gave us a taste of the international entrepreneurial spirit. From inspiring keynotes and memorable appearances—such as those by US politician Bernie Sanders—to groundbreaking lectures on future trends, it truly offered everything your heart could desire. Always worth the trip with its incredibly extensive and diverse program, which is probably why it's one of our favorite events: the SXSW.
For the Tech Open Air, the Re:publica and the NOAH Conference We stayed within the federal borders again and went to Berlin. But the fact that our Austrian neighbors from Vienna also have an understanding of digitalization and future topics was proven to us by the Pioneers Festival impressive once again.
Cebit is dead — long live Digital Day
As a dinosaur among tech events, one could Cebit in Hanover which took place for the last time this year. In response to the end of the venerable mass was the first German Digital Day launched.
From the beer tent into the darkness
One of our annual highlights has traditionally been the Bits & Pretzels here in Munich. With top-class speakers, panels, and workshops, the 5,000-strong start-up festival thrilled its visitors under the overarching theme of "diversity." Not least, of course, because of the unique Wiesn networking in the Schottenhamel tent at the Oktoberfest. The Munich Startup Award 2018 awarded.
In the dark and cold season we finally ventured out to the Slush to Helsinki. The fact that Finland wasn't showing its friendliest side at the beginning of December didn't detract from the fact that Slush is, not without reason, considered one of the most important and successful startup events in Europe. Over 20,000 participants didn't want to miss this year-end event, and we were anything but disappointed.
