Under the motto “Connecting Europe”, Bits & Pretzels once again underscored its ambition to be the central platform for founders, investors, and decision-makers in Europe. Coinciding with Oktoberfest, Munich became a hotspot for innovation, networking, and entrepreneurial spirit – with over 7,500 participants from more than 70 countries, top-tier speakers from around the world, and a clear message: Europe must come closer together, become bolder, and harness its innovative power with greater determination.
Europe needs more ambition, risk culture, and open markets
International voices shaped the debate on the future of the European startup ecosystem. “Connecting Europe was more than a motto for us – it was a promise. This year’s Bits & Pretzels has shown what’s possible when Europe’s founders work together on a shared vision,” explained Andy Bruckschlögl, co-founder of Bits & Pretzels.
Skype founder and Atomico CEO Niklas Zennström called the founders the gamechangers of Europe and urged for more courage, independence, and assertiveness. Raycho Raychev, founder and CEO of space startup EnduroSat, advocated strengthening democracy through bold technologies rather than angry tweets. He also called for open market structure: “We still do not operate in a truly open market in Europe. Instead of focusing on transparent competition, many players remain stuck in outdated management structures that slow down innovation and progress.”
The time for founders and bold technologies is now
Despite ongoing economic uncertainties and global tensions, one thing was evident this year: Europe is growing closer together. Germany’s Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Energy, Katherina Reiche, emphasized that crises offer great opportunities for startups, as the pressure for change on established companies increases and innovation becomes the key to sustainable success.
“Bits & Pretzels is, more than ever, the platform for European innovation. The feedback from the community confirms it: Europe wants to – and, even more importantly – Europe can! And we will do everything we can as a platform to create even more space for collective progress,” said Bernd Storm van’s Gravesande, co-founder of Bits & Pretzels.
Matchmaking with impact: How Bits & Pretzels connects founders and investors
Formats such as the Startup Expo, CIO AI Summit and Investor Summit made European collaboration tangible at Bits & Pretzels. At the Startup Expo, more than 200 startups from across Europe showcased their innovative ideas and solutions. In the Matchmaking Area, founders and investors met in curated one-on-one sessions, supported by experienced networkers who acted as personal guides and fostered valuable connections.
“Our mission is to build bridges – between countries, between capital and ideas, between startups, investors, and corporates,” said Felix Haas, co-founder of Bits & Pretzels. “These bridges were visible everywhere at Bits & Pretzels 2025.”
European Pitch Contest: Sitegeist wins with a smart construction platform
A major highlight was the final round of the European Pitch Contest. The first prize went to Munich-based robotics startup Sitegeist, which has developed an intelligent platform that automates repetitive construction site tasks – improving safety and efficiency. Founder Lena Pätzmann celebrated the win: “Our mission is clear: we want to save infrastructure. Now we have the attention, and we’re ready to get things done.”
For more information, visit the official website: www.bitsandpretzels.com
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