Next Sunday it will be that time again: The Bits & Pretzels — Munich’s largest startup festival — is starting a new round. To get everyone who will be there this year: a short interview with Felix Haas, Andreas Bruckschlögl and Bernd Storm about Obama, this year's motto "Impact" and Munich as a startup location. To all those who cannot be there in person: About our Twitter-, Facebook- and InstagramWe'll be providing plenty of insights from Bits & Pretzels 2019 on our channel. Subscribe and don't miss a thing.
After last year's "Diversity," this year's Bits & Pretzels is all about "Impact." Andy, Bernd, and Felix: What exactly do you understand by this topic, and how will it be visible at the startup festival?
We believe that entrepreneurship is one of the most important levers for overcoming current and future challenges. For us, impact means ideas that have a profound impact on as many people as possible. Our program is designed with this focus in mind: Our community and guests are invited to immerse themselves in the "Bits & Pretzels" world for three days and then return to their businesses with new ideas, answers to their questions, and important new contacts.
Pitches, workshops and inspiring people
In addition to some of the most inspiring people we could find in the world, there will also be numerous workshops offering participants the opportunity to learn from experts in small groups and exchange ideas. In addition, founders will, of course, once again be able to present their ideas to over 500 investors and journalists and compete against hundreds of other startups at the startup pitch.
You were able to secure Barack Obama as the top speaker this year. How did you pull this off?
With persistence and perseverance. We laid the foundation for Barack Obama to appear on our stage this year with our initial request in 2017. Then began a long period of waiting and a laborious process through the institutions. Fortunately, at some point, we were able to negotiate directly with Obama's closest advisors and finally received an acceptance one evening in July.
What do you expect from his performance?
As President of America, Obama has inspired millions of people. His name stands for change and change, and we believe there are few people from whom founders can learn as much, far beyond the craft of entrepreneurship, as Obama.
What can a startup specifically take away from Bits & Pretzels as a visitor? And what's the best way to go about it?
In addition to our top speakers, our participants benefit from a diverse program. This gives our visitors the unique opportunity to participate in exclusive workshops and thus have the chance to learn and exchange ideas with CEOs of renowned companies in an intimate setting.
Bits & Pretzels is an experience
The Startup Exhibition, where startups can present their ideas, is also unique. The startup pitches, where hundreds of startups compete against each other, are also a great opportunity. Our event is designed to bring together people who belong together.
This is especially ideal for startups. Take advantage of this opportunity! Schedule appointments, get involved in our matchmaking program, and don't forget: Bits & Pretzels is an experience. Enjoy the event and take away as much positive input as possible.
Bits & Pretzels takes place in Munich—a city that is recognized throughout Europe as a strong business location, but not yet universally known as an exciting startup hub. Can a startup festival like Bits & Pretzels change that? Or do you have any plans to change that?
Fortunately, the days when Munich was perceived as a city of Oktoberfest but not as a startup hub are long gone. In recent years, the city has developed into one of Europe's leading high-tech hubs, home to renowned companies. We simply want to contribute our part with Bits & Pretzels.
