From 27-29 September 2015, the founders were in Munich: Bits & Pretzels attracted more than 3,600 entrepreneurs and startup enthusiasts to the state capital for one of Europe's largest founder conferences. The first two days were held at the ICM on the exhibition grounds, before the mega-networking event in the Schottenhamel marquee at the Oktoberfest concluded the program.
Bits & Pretzels: 3 days of startup madness
But first things first: On Sunday, the ICM at the Munich Trade Fair Center gradually filled up towards late morning, and right from the start, it became clear to the attendees that "Think big" is a reality here. Large booths were set up both on the ground floor and on the first floor, offering all sorts of information and entertainment. We at Munich Startup had our own booth, but also enjoyed making the rounds of the grounds to check out the numerous startups presenting themselves. From e-bikes, which you could test drive right outside, to the latest sex toy innovation from London, the range on offer was enormous.
A little visit to @munich_startup – The visit is a must for Munich residents #Startups pic.twitter.com/F01MPkk4Qc
— Lukas (@089Lukas) September 27, 2015
Beer benches in the foyer invited visitors to take a seat and enjoy a chat in a relaxed atmosphere. Those who preferred a more intimate conversation could make themselves comfortable in one of the gondolas of the specially erected Ferris wheel.
Upstairs, visitors also found the main stage in the large hall. "Large" is an understatement: A massive room with an impressive stage including several screens was an indication of the scale the founders' conference has now reached, having begun as a small, cozy white sausage breakfast.
Aigner, Schmid and Böhmer launch Munich Startup
After the general welcome by the organizers Andreas Bruckschlögl, Bernd Storm and Felix Haas let it be Minister of State These Aigner and birthday child Mayor Josef Schmid not miss the opportunity to welcome the conference participants. the official launch of our portal by the two political representatives and Ms. Gabriele Böhmer (Head of Munich Startup).
The speaker program then began, which was very popular with the audience. In the evening, the founders had the opportunity to network and celebrate at a party on Prater Island, before continuing on Monday with various high-profile speaker presentations, workshops, and panels.
But not only was the program diverse, the international audience also consisted of a colorful and refreshing mix of young entrepreneurs, experienced entrepreneurs, investors and much more. Thus, lively discussions could be observed everywhere, in a setting that could hardly have been better.
Successful festival conclusion at the Wiesn
On Tuesday, the closing event of the Founders' Festival was to set another massive exclamation mark: Never before had such a large number of founders participated in Oktoberfest together. More than 3,600 guests gathered in the center of the Schottenhamel festival tent to network, eat and drink together, and simply celebrate. Mayor Schmid announced a new tradition from the stage: “Bits & Pretzels – Oktoberfest Tuesday”, which suggests that the conference will probably conclude in the Schottenhamel next year as well.
Before the music started, comedian and professional grump Harry G took the podium as the highlight, delivering a massive rant about hipsters, tourists, Prussians, Berliners, and all startup "Gschafftler" (people who don't have a name). Pure Bavarian charm!
Conclusion: Bits & Pretzels was a thoroughly successful event that garnered attention not only in Munich but throughout the world, and will surely gain even more international recognition. One could hardly have wished for a more wonderful ending than celebrating together at Oktoberfest! We're already looking forward to the next edition and will definitely be there again.
