Jan-Felix Kederer
Manager, Government Projects & Trade Missions
+1 (312) 585-8008 kederer@gaccmidwest.org
Event Details
- Event Start: Sunday, September 6, 2026 · 6:00 PM CET
- Event End: Friday, September 11, 2026 · 4:00 PM CET
- Location: Germany
- Language: English
- Participation Fee: $820
The participation fee is $820 (covers organization of all agenda points including site visits and networking events; accommodation from September 6 - 11; ground transportation within Germany; and select meals. Participants pay remaining costs, including international flights, transport to and from airports, and accommodation outside the scope of the trip dates.)
Live Q&A:
Join us for a live Q&A on Tuesday, June 30th at 1:00 PM CT to learn more about the program. Sign up here.
This trip presents a unique opportunity to explore how Germany and the Midwest can address shared challenges in attracting startups and fostering innovation. Both regions aim to create thriving ecosystems that support entrepreneurs, scale new ideas, and drive economic growth. Participants will gain valuable insights into Germany's federal startup strategy, experience leading accelerators and incubators firsthand, and engage in meaningful discussions on best practices. This transatlantic exchange will strengthen startup landscapes in both regions and unlock new opportunities for growth.
Key Takeaways:
- Market Insights & Strategies: Participants receive hands-on insights into the German innovation ecosystem, a dynamic growth region for Deeptech and Hardtech innovations in manufacturing & industry.
- Effective Networking: Direct engagement with local stakeholders fosters partnerships and cross-regional collaboration.
- Visibility on an International Stage: Participation in panels, workshops, and events strengthens the positioning of US organizations as partners for innovation and cooperation.
- Exclusive Ecosystem Access: On-site visits to German Hardtech and Deeptech organizations in manufacturing and industry.
- Investor & Corporate Connections: US start-ups learn firsthand the expectations and success factors of German investors. The delegation lays the groundwork for further transatlantic collaborations, deepens personal exchange, and opens new opportunities for strategic partnerships between German and U.S. innovation stakeholders.
-
Participating in the Midwest-focused delegation during Berlin Energy Week 2025, organized by GACC Midwest, was one of the most professionally enriching experiences of my career. It provided an invaluable opportunity to connect with and learn from leaders and colleagues across Berlin and Germany. GACC Midwest has built a powerful brand and network that truly enables its partners to grow and deepen global economic ties through strong transatlantic collaboration.
The project is funded by the Transatlantic Program of the Federal Republic of Germany using resources from the European Recovery Program (ERP) of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWE).