Entrance to the Foyer & Networking

⌚️ From 16:00

Get in the mood for the big AiDiA Pitch Night 2026.

We recommend arriving early so you can pick up your badge, settle in at your own pace and not miss the opening. We’ll have welcome drinks ready for you, and you can use the time to network with other guests. We’ve also set up various booths from our partners.

Pitch Night Opening

⌚️ 17:30 – 18:20

The doors to the hall will open. Once everyone has found a seat, the AiDiA Pitch Night 2026 will officially begin.

What to expect: Music performance by opera singer Binta Anne. Summary of the Conference Day by our presenter of the evening Alexandra Antwi-Boasiako. And a political opening address by Irene Appiah, Member of the Hamburg Parliament.

Host

Built Under Pressure: The Long Game of Entrepreneurship

⌚️ 18:20 – 19:00 | 🇬🇧 English

Everyone talks about building a successful business. But what does it take to actually last?

Behind every growing business lie decisions that no one applauds, pressure that no one sees, and moments when giving up might feel easier than carrying on.

Our panel, featuring distinguished international guests from the UK, the US and the diaspora in Germany, takes an honest look at what it really means to build something that lasts.

From cash flow and accountability to reputation, growth, uncertainty and making decisions before the outcome is clear, this conversation goes beyond the glossy success stories.

Host

Founder Pitch

⌚️ 19:00 – 19:30 | ⌚️ 21:00 – 21:50

Our six pitch teams will present their ideas and try to win over the jury: Afro Drinks by Bam, Duafe Haircare, HYNOVY, Lankai Ltd., Trashcoin and YANA.

Jury

Closing with Stonebwoy

⌚️ 10.20 pm – 11.00 pm

Of course, we’ll wrap up the Pitch Night by announcing the winner of our founder pitch. But we’ll also use this moment to thank a few people.

And then the evening will culminate in one of our absolute highlights: Stonebwoy will perform live on our stage as the closing act of our Business & Culture Fest 2026.

Stonebwoy is a BET Award winner, global Afro-Dancehall icon and one of Africa’s most influential artists.

And this September, he will take the AiDiA stage in Hamburg to close an unforgettable weekend of business, culture and community.

End of Pitch Night & Start of Afterparty

⌚️ From 11:00 PM

That’s a wrap at the Friedrich-Ebert-Halle. But the night is far from over.

After bringing Pitch Night to a close with a live performance, Stonebwoy joins us for an exclusive album signing at Uebel & Gefährlich.

Together with AfroFuture, we’re bringing Accra Energy to the Bunker for one night.

Expect: Afro. Amapiano. Dancehall. Hip Hop. UK Sounds. All vibes. Two floors. One night.

📍 Uebel & Gefährlich, Feldstraße 66, 20359 Hamburg

Access to the afterparty is included only with the following tickets: AiDiA Kombi (Premium) & AiDiA Pitch Night (Premium).

If you don’t have any of these tickets, get your Aftershow Party ticket now from our ticket shop:

👉 Ticket Shop

Financial independence with real estate – Why it's the smartest way

⌚️ 13:00 – 14:00 | 🎤 Masterclass | 🇩🇪 German

Financial independence does not just begin in retirement. It starts with the decisions we make today. In her masterclass, Alberta Ntiriwaah Lehmann provides insights into strategic wealth accumulation through property.

This is not just about the question of why property is an exciting way to build wealth, but also about how a buy-to-let property fundamentally works, what equity is actually required, and how you can find a strategy that fits your life, your goals and the amount of time you have available.

Personal Brand – How your story becomes your strongest business model

⌚️ 14:15 – 15:15 | 🎤 Masterclass | 🇩🇪 German

In his Masterclass, David Kwasi Owusu shows you how to turn your own career path into your most valuable professional asset.

In today's digital world, a personal brand is no longer an option, but the most powerful currency we possess. Instead of trying to fit into a pre-made mould, we use your individual story as a fundamental strategy. He shows you how to purposefully build your visibility and transform your own uniqueness into a genuine unique selling proposition that is completely uncopyable.

Together, we will walk the path from attention to real value creation: you will learn step by step how to turn reach into deep trust, and this trust ultimately into measurable results. In doing so, we will quickly leave the theoretical level behind and focus on concrete initial actions that you can integrate directly into your daily routine from today to tomorrow without any detours.

To conclude, David will be available for an open Q&A session, in which he will address all your individual questions and provide honest, unfiltered answers.

AI & Future Skills: Continuing Professional Development in the AI Transformation

⌚️ 15:45 – 16:45 | 🎤 Masterclass | 🇩🇪 German

How do you prepare yourself for jobs that change while you are doing them? AI is changing tasks and roles faster than traditional further training can often keep up. Simply learning the next tool will therefore not be enough.

In his masterclass, Jonas Johne, head of the Creative Business Academy at the Hamburg Kreativ Gesellschaft, demonstrates which skills are now truly becoming relevant – for yourself, for teams and for leadership.

That's what it's all about:
→ Surge Skilling: Building new skills precisely when they are needed – and learning to let go of old habits, too.
→ Creative Generalist: Why people who combine diverse skills are becoming especially valuable in the AI world of work.
→ Human Skills: Why critical thinking, empathy and the ability to actively shape change are becoming more, not less, important.

And it doesn't stop at theory: you look at your own skillset and develop a concrete next step for your role or team.

Just Vibe Code Your (Business) Idea – AI Agents Do the Rest

⌚️ 17:00 – 18:00 | 🎤 Masterclass | 🇩🇪 German

You are already using AI. But as more new tools, agents and possibilities are added, the harder the question becomes: How do I actually use this sensibly for my business?

Does that sound familiar to you?

The question is no longer: Will I be replaced?
The question is: What am I still needed for – and how do I use that now?

This is precisely where Dajana Eder comes in.

She has been building personal brands since 2019. Without investors. Without an office. Without a developer team. Today, she shows founders how they can use vibe coding and AI agents to implement ideas faster, automate processes and build businesses – even without a technical background.

What has changed: Not the starting point. But the tools.

In this masterclass you will learn:

✓ What Vibe Coding means – and why you don't need coding skills for it
✓ How AI agents can compensate for time, budget and missing resources
✓ How to translate your business idea into a first working setup
✓ What role you play in the AI era – as a strategist, decision-maker and creative force

Black Empowered Futures: From Survival to Evolution

⌚️ 13:45 – 14:00 | 🎤 Hear Me Out | 🇩🇪 German

You think resistance automatically makes us stronger? Hear me out.

What if we are so used to fighting against structures that we forget to build our own in the process?

In his Hear Me Out session, Jeff talks about why mere survival cannot be a strategy for the future – and what it takes to move from resistance to genuine power, independence and agency.

A human being is more than a TV moment

⌚️ 14:05 – 14:20 | 🎤 Hear Me Out | 🇩🇪 German

You've seen 40 minutes on TV and you think you know me? Hear me out.

A TV moment. A clip. A mistake. A stupid comment. And suddenly the verdict is in.

Jubriel talks in his Hear Me Out session about what happens when a public moment becomes an image of a whole person.

About hate and mental health. About mistakes and responsibility. But also about why empathy doesn't mean approving of everything – rather, not forgetting the person behind the story.

Those who do not believe in God are stupid

⌚️ 14:25 – 14:40 | 🎤 Hear Me Out | 🇩🇪 German

You don't believe in God? Then you're stupid.
Too much? Hear her out.

Because behind Wana's statement there is less proselytising than one might initially suppose.

Her Hear Me Out session is about science and spirituality, about connectedness – and about the question of what we actually mean when we talk about „God“.
Perhaps you disagree with her. Perhaps your perspective changes. Perhaps you leave with even more questions. That is precisely what it is all about.

Nobody is waiting for us. Good job.

⌚️ 11:55 – 12:30 | 🎤 Keynote | 🇩🇪 German

Nobody is waiting for you.
That very thing became David Owusu's greatest advantage.

Before he built up one of Germany’s most exciting property companies, he used to park cars at Hamburg Airport. After completing his apprenticeship at Engel & Völkers, he worked his way up to the executive board within five years.

In 2021, he made a decision.

Not because founding was the easier way.
But because he realised: whoever truly wants to change something cannot wait for others to make way.

Today, David is the founder and managing director of David & Jacques Immobilien, which has over 30 staff and offices in Hamburg and Munich.

Here, he brings precisely this story to the stage. A story about marginalisation, ambition, and the decision to carve out one's own place.

Opportunity or Destructive Force – Who Wins the AI Game?

⌚️ 12:30 – 13:20 | 🎤 Panel | 🇩🇪 German

Everyone is talking about AI. But who is actually winning the AI game?

AI is currently transforming how we work, are creative and do business. It is creating new markets, shifting competitive advantages and opening up possibilities that were barely conceivable a few years ago. But these opportunities are not automatically distributed equally.

Who is building the businesses of tomorrow with AI? Who benefits economically? Whose data, knowledge and cultural heritage flow into the technology? And who actually determines the rules of the game?

We are bringing together four perspectives that discuss precisely that. From corporate and tech to music and the creative industries: we are talking about who is currently winning the AI game – and what it takes not just to benefit from the future, but to help shape it.

Host

The New Rules of Making It: Who succeeds in the music business today – and why?

⌚️ 13:45 – 14:35 | 🎤 Panel | 🇩🇪 German

What factors truly decide today who becomes visible in the music business, remains successful in the long term, and achieves commercial success – and who does not?

Host

From Idea to Africa: Trade, Build, Invest

Powered by

African markets hold enormous opportunity. But what does it actually take to turn that potential into a sustainable business?

The panel From Idea to Africa: Trade, Build, Invest, powered by AWE, looks at the realities behind building across African markets.

From understanding local market needs to cross-border trade, investment and long-term growth, our panelists bring different perspectives and real experiences from across the ecosystem.

Host

Idea Pitch

⌚️ 16:35 – 17:30 | 🎤 Pitch | 🇩🇪 German & 🇬🇧 English

Our five pitch teams will present their ideas and try to win over the jury: Beeva AI, Lady D Cosmetics, NHARE, Speed Aid and Waymaker Stories.

Jury

Host

Entrepreneurship 2026 – How companies are holding their ground in the market despite current challenges

⌚️ 17:30 – 18:15 | 🎤 Panel | 🇩🇪 German

Which companies manage to remain relevant even when markets and the rules of the game change?

This panel is precisely about that: what is needed today to successfully build a company, develop it further, and survive in the long term?

The focus is on strong business models, brand building, visibility, trust, and the ability to respond to new challenges.

Host

Global Founders Stage

⌚️ 18:15 – 19:05 | 🎤 Pitch & Panel | 🇬🇧 English

Join The Migrant Accelerator (TMA) for an inspiring showcase of global founder talent, followed by a dynamic panel discussion. Discover how Hamburg’s startup ecosystem supports international founders, explore what’s coming next, and dive into the challenges that still lie ahead.

Startup Showcases:

Kolsetu arrow up right icon

HAVANA arrow up right icon

Prazzle arrow up right icon

Panel: „How the Hamburg ecosystem has supported international founders, what to expect in the future, and how it can serve as a role model for other regions in Germany“

Host

Doors Open & Networking

⌚️ From 09:30

Get in the mood for the AiDiA Business & Culture Fest 2026.

We recommend arriving in time so you can pick up your badge, settle in at your own pace and not miss the opening at 11:00. You can use the time to network with other guests and explore the MS Stubnitz. We’ve also set up various booths from our partners.

Business & Culture Fest Opening

⌚️ 11:00 – 11:40 | 🎤 Speech | 🇩🇪 German

Opening address by Senator Dr Melanie Leonard, and the official welcome and opening of the AiDiA Business & Culture Fest 2026 by presenters ShaNon Bobinger and Ludwig Amuam.

Is Hamburg Germany's underrated start-up capital? What the location needs to produce the next generation of successful start-ups.

⌚️ 11:40 – 12:25 | 🎤 Panel | 🇩🇪 German

Hamburg has capital. Talent. Global corporations. A strong creative sector. Why is the city still so often underestimated as a start-up metropolis?

Berlin and Munich dominate the discussion about Germany's start-up hubs. Yet Hamburg offers much of what successful companies need.

The more exciting question is therefore: what is still missing for this potential to translate into more companies that grow from Hamburg and scale internationally?

That is precisely what we are discussing with four people who know the Hamburg ecosystem from completely different perspectives.

What is already working really well in Hamburg?
Where are we losing founders, talent and growth potential?
What needs to change for the next generation of successful companies to grow out of Hamburg?
Is Hamburg Germany's underrated start-up metropolis?

Host

Live Interview with Y’akoto

⌚️ 13:40 – 14:05 | 🎤 Interview | 🇬🇧 English

Look forward to an engaging live interview in which artist, entrepreneur and author Y’akoto will speak with host Martina Offeh about the following topics, amongst others:

Mental health
+ Building platforms that bridge Africa and Europe
+ Using technology to empower African artists
Cultural exchange
+ Philosophy from a Black perspective
Identity
Women’s empowerment

Inclusive by Design: Rethinking Skincare for Melanin-Rich Skin

Powered by

⌚️ 14:05 – 15:00 | 🎤 Panel | 🇬🇧 English

If skincare is universal, why hasn’t the industry built products for everyone?

For decades, skincare has been marketed as something that works for all. But when it comes to research, product development, and innovation, not every skin type, tone, or lived experience has been equally considered.

We’re bringing together experts from science, dermatology, business, DE&I, and content creation for a conversation that goes beyond beauty.

We’ll explore why inclusive thinking isn’t just about representation, it’s about creating better research, better products, and better business outcomes. Because when diverse perspectives shape innovation from the very beginning, everyone benefits.

If you care about the future of beauty, product innovation, healthcare, or building brands that create real impact, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

Host

How to become the Most Influential Person in the Room

⌚️ 15:00 – 15:50 | 🎤 Keynote | 🇬🇧 English

His story started from being homeless. Today, he’s one of Britain’s most influential businessmen – and he’s flying from London to Hamburg to share it with us.

Ranked #1 on the J.P. Morgan Powerlist 2025, founder of three unicorns, and now developing the next generation of leaders through the Forbes Family Group.

His keynote is not theory, but the blueprint from someone who’s actually lived it, from the ground up.

Beyond the Creator – What is really behind successful content?

⌚️ 16:45 – 17:35 | 🎤 Panel | 🇩🇪 German

Everyone sees the content. Hardly anyone sees what goes on behind the scenes.

What does it really take to remain relevant as a creator in the long term? Between community building, authenticity and brand deals, it comes down to the question: how does content become a sustainable business?

At the „Beyond the Creator“ creator panel, we discuss the reality behind successful creator careers – honest decisions, challenges, and learnings that often remain invisible on social media.

Host

Beyond the Game: Why the most exciting careers in sport aren’t just forged on the pitch

⌚️ 17:35 – 18:25 | 🎤 Panel | 🇩🇪 German

Sport is one of the biggest economic sectors in the world. But which companies, job profiles and business models are emerging around sport – and why do they offer career opportunities today that are just as exciting as the path onto the pitch?

Host

Award Ceremony & AiDiA Presentation

⌚️ 18:50 – 19:20 | 🎤 Award & Presentation | 🇩🇪 German

Join us as we announce the winner of this year’s Idea Pitch (16:35 – 17:30 on Stage 1) and celebrate in style. We’ll also talk a little about AiDiA’s journey so far, where we stand today, and what lies ahead.

Become an Exhibitor at Business & Culture Fest

As part of our community, we’re offering you the opportunity to showcase your business and product at the Business & Culture Fest. Take advantage of this chance to connect with hundreds of consumers and significantly boost your brand’s visibility.

Please feel free to send us an email with some information about yourself and your business, and why you’d like to exhibit at the Business & Culture Fest. We’ll then get in touch with you directly to let you know the next steps and discuss all further details.

Amanda Reich
Event Manager
amanda.reich@aidia-pitch.de

Become a Partner of the Business & Culture Fest

AiDiA wouldn't be possible without the support of our partners. If you'd like to become a supporter as well, here's what you'll get in return:

📢 Raise awareness for your business
Access to your target audiences and the opportunity to reach new ones
Provide vital support to a nonprofit organisation

If you'd like to become a partner of AiDiA and the Business & Culture Fest 2026, please feel free to email Lucy. She will then get in touch with you.

Lucy Larbi
Initiator & Co-Founder
lucy@aidia-pitch.de

Join the Crew from 3 to 7 September 2026

Experience the AiDiA Business & Culture Fest 2026 first-hand, become part of a unique community and gain valuable experience and skills.

The event itself will take place on 4 & 5 September 2026. But we also need your support the day before and the days after. 

As a thank-you for your help, you’ll receive:

🧡 €100 per shift as an expense allowance (tax-free)
🎟️ A free ticket to the AiDiA event – including admission for a guest
🥗 Meals and drinks during your shift
🎤 Exclusive behind-the-scenes insights and the opportunity to work with international guests, speakers, and partners
A goodie bag with great surprises from our partners

We look forward to welcoming you to the team!