Program
in-depth CONTENT - FOR YOU
Whether on the Main Stage, in our interactive Experience Areas, or hands-on Masterclasses – ruhrSUMMIT brings you real insights, the latest trends, and valuable learnings. This is more than just talk – it’s real impact for you and your business!

MAIN STAGE
Main Stage – The Heart of ruhrSUMMIT!🎤🚀
Here comes the start-up scene to life! On the Main Stage, you’ll experience inspiring keynotes, engaging panel discussions, and the thrilling ruhrSUMMIT Award. Learn from top industry leaders, get inspired by visionary ideas, and witness live debates on the most pressing future topics.
- Keynotes from top speakers & industry pioneers
- Panel discussions with bold insights & real takeaways
- ruhrSUMMIT Award – the grand finale for outstanding start-ups
Be there when the movers and shakers take the stage!
MODERATION

Stefanie Söhnchen and Christian Dasbach are your hosts on the Main Stage - full of energy all day long, with the most exciting guests and the right questions at the right time.
As VP Strategy at PIABO Communications, Stefanie brings in-depth expertise in digital communication. She supports brands in sharpening their story and sending the right messages at the right time.
Christian is the founder of byondx and F*ckup Night Ruhrgebiet. He loves the stage, creates inspiring formats and facilitates authentic conversations - with depth and impact.

SNEAK PEAK TOP VOICES
Immerse yourself in a line-up full of visionary speakers, captivating keynotes and exciting panel discussions. Experience the minds that are shaping the future - live on the Main Stage.

🤖 From AI to Performance Marketing
🤯 Insights you won’t get anywhere else

🚀 The voice of German start-ups at the heartbeat of politics
🔥 Advocating for founders
🎤 Straight talk on the future of the scene

📈 From start-up to brand powerhouse
🎯 Strategies that truly work
🏆 E-commerce pioneer & doer

🚲 Sushibikes: A success story
🔥 Honest insights into funding strategies
🎤 From someone who’s been through it all

🔥 Know how to create hypes
🏆 Topics from Podcast to Strategie
🎤 Smart, direct & inspiring

💡 17 years of entrepreneurial insights
🔥 Hard truths & real aha moments
🏆 First-hand knowledge from a seasoned founder

🧠 Alway curious
🎓 BWL-Justus without the Justus
PANEL DISCUSSION
The Panel Discussions on the Main Stage bring together leading minds. Experts share their insights, discuss trends and provide valuable input. The focus is on two pivotal topics: New Work and Female Founders.

Female Founders - More female founders in the startup scene
Why are there still so few female founders? This panel shows the challenges and successes of female entrepreneurs and provides inspiration for the next generation.
Participants:
Host: Dr. Britta J. Dombrowe (Initiativkreis Ruhr)
Expert: Franziska Teubert (Startup Verband)
Expert: Angelica Conraths (fembites)
Expert: Anastasia Barner (FeMentor)
Expert: Jacqueline Torres (MeDusch)

New Work - The future of work
How is our working world changing? What role do innovations and corporate culture play? This panel sheds light on the opportunities and challenges of new ways of working.
Participants:
Host: Tim Schabsky (Rivvers)
Expert: Kenan Aggül (kepa)
Expert: Pia Sielemann (RWE)
Expert: Jasmin Habegger (opta data Gruppe)
Expert: Sebastian Holtze (PWC)
ruhrSUMMIT AWARD

Start-ups on the big stage!
The ruhrSUMMIT Award is the highlight for start-ups with ambitions. This is where innovation, visibility and investors meet. The winners not only secure fame, but also valuable contacts and opportunities.
But the award is not just exciting for start-ups! The live finals offer an exclusive look at the most innovative ideas and technologies of tomorrow. Experience how founders pitch for victory and find out first-hand which trends will determine the future.
- Preparation: Buy a start-up ticket.
- Application: Submit your start-up.
- Selection: The best teams pitch in front of the jury.
- Finals: The top start-ups compete live on the Main Stage.
MASTERCLASSES
our Exclusive Deep Dive!
Looking for more than just inspiration? Our Masterclasses offer in-depth expert knowledge from high-class speakers – insights you won’t find anywhere else in such a compact format. Meet industry pros who share their insider knowledge – hands-on, interactive, and exclusive.
- Deep dives into key trends & challenges
- Exclusive know-how from industry leaders
- Direct exchange with top speakers
Don’t miss the chance to gain real insights for your business!

MASTERCLASS: HOW TO PITCH PERFECT

MASTERCLASS: AI x MARKETING

Son’t miss out on how AI can be a true gamechanger!