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FUTUROMUNDO FORESIGHT
The Future Urban Economies Forum
July 3, 2025, Stuttgart
As urbanization continues to grow worldwide and cities play a critical role in climate transformation, business models and industries must evolve: away from individual products or services toward new life-cycle urban solutions. Thus, new markets are emerging at the intersection of high-tech and low-tech, while at the same time bold future scenarios and concepts for construction, mobility, energy, communication, entertainment and security are needed in these future urban economies. Join us on a journey into the visions and potential of forward-looking business models in energy, mobility and commerce that will make cities smarter and more sustainable. Learn how economic success and societal benefits can go hand in hand.
DATES
FUTUROMUNDO FORESIGHT
3. July 2025, 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Liederhalle, Stuttgart, Mozartsaal
TecNet Digitalization
3. July 2025, 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Das Gutbrod, Friedrichstraße 10, 70174 Stuttgart
4. July 2025, 7:30 - 10:30 p.m
FUTUROMUNDO NIGHTSHIFT
Cannstatter Wasen, FUTUROMUNDO Arena
4. to 5. July 2025
KESSEL FESTIVAL
The music festival at the Cannstatter Wasen, Stuttgart
CONTENTPARTNER
MAIN STAGE
LIEDERHALLE, MOZARTSAAL
10:00 a.m. Welcome and introduction
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Vanessa Borkmann (Head of Urban Systems Engineering, Fraunhofer IAO)
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Vanessa Borkmann is a professor of tourism with a focus on hotel management at SRH Berlin University of Applied Sciences. At Fraunhofer IAO in Stuttgart, she heads the research work of the Smart Urban Environments team in the field of urban system design. Her research covers topics in the fields of “Living, Hotels, Travel & Destinations,” “Cities, Districts & Food Supply,” and “Arts, Culture & Museums.” As a trained architect, member of the Baden-Württemberg Chamber of Architects, and doctor of industrial engineering, she researches concepts and solutions for innovative environments and service innovations in this context.
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Vanessa Borkmann is a professor of tourism with a focus on hotel management at SRH Berlin University of Applied Sciences. At Fraunhofer IAO in Stuttgart, she heads the research work of the Smart Urban Environments team in the field of urban system design. Her research covers topics in the fields of “Living, Hotels, Travel & Destinations,” “Cities, Districts & Food Supply,” and “Arts, Culture & Museums.” As a trained architect, member of the Baden-Württemberg Chamber of Architects, and doctor of industrial engineering, she researches concepts and solutions for innovative environments and service innovations in this context.
10:10 a.m. | Future research and innovation for transformation in urban areas
Dr.-Ing. Steffen Braun (Deputy Director, Fraunhofer IAO)
Dr.-Ing. Steffen Braun is Deputy Director of Fraunhofer IAO in Stuttgart. He previously headed the “Urban System Design” research unit. His research focuses on climate-friendly, technology-neutral, and adaptable urban system design.
Braun studied architecture and urban planning at the University of Stuttgart. He is co-founder of the Fraunhofer Morgenstadt initiative, which today comprises a network of more than ten Fraunhofer Institutes. He has also supported several national initiatives on smart cities.
Dr.-Ing. Steffen Braun is Deputy Director of Fraunhofer IAO in Stuttgart. He previously headed the “Urban System Design” research unit. His research focuses on climate-friendly, technology-neutral, and adaptable urban system design.
Braun studied architecture and urban planning at the University of Stuttgart. He is co-founder of the Fraunhofer Morgenstadt initiative, which today comprises a network of more than ten Fraunhofer Institutes. He has also supported several national initiatives on smart cities.
10:30 a.m. | Foresight – Future readiness with strategic roadmapping
Klaus Burmeister (futurologist, Managing Director, foresightlab, Berlin)
Klaus Burmeister is one of the most important futurologists in the German-speaking world. He is a trained high-voltage electrician. After completing his second-chance education, he first studied political science at the University of Hamburg and then at the Free University of Berlin. After graduating, he worked for two years as a research assistant at the FU. He then began his work in the field of futures research at the „IZT – Institute for Futures Studies and Technology Assessment“ in Berlin. He co-developed and realized the „Secretariat for Future Research (SFZ)“ in Gelsenkirchen. With „Z_punkt The Foresight Company“ he founded one of the first future consulting firms in Germany. Today it is one of the established institutions for strategic future consulting in the field of corporate foresight. Klaus Burmeister is the initiator of the „foresightlab“ in Berlin.
He is chairman of the non-profit association „D2030 – Rethinking Germany“.
Klaus Burmeister is one of the most important futurologists in the German-speaking world. He is a trained high-voltage electrician. After completing his second-chance education, he first studied political science at the University of Hamburg and then at the Free University of Berlin. After graduating, he worked for two years as a research assistant at the FU. He then began his work in the field of futures research at the „IZT – Institute for Futures Studies and Technology Assessment“ in Berlin. He co-developed and realized the „Secretariat for Future Research (SFZ)“ in Gelsenkirchen. With „Z_punkt The Foresight Company“ he founded one of the first future consulting firms in Germany. Today it is one of the established institutions for strategic future consulting in the field of corporate foresight. Klaus Burmeister is the initiator of the „foresightlab“ in Berlin.
He is chairman of the non-profit association „D2030 – Rethinking Germany“.
Introduction to the session
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Vanessa Borkmann (Head of Urban Systems Engineering, Fraunhofer IAO)
11:00 a.m. | Future Living – Urban Ecosystems Development in Uruguay (in English)
Eduardo Bastitta (Founder & CEO, +Colonia, Argentina/Uruguay)
The +Colonia Project aims to become the most innovative smart city greenfield project in South America. It combines state-of-the-art technology, sustainable urban development, and smart infrastructure concepts to create a forward-looking urban environment. In doing so, +Colonia represents the key to overcoming the challenges of urban growth, digitalization, and environmental sustainability.
Eduardo Bastitta, founder and CEO of +Colonia, is the driving force behind this revolutionary project. With his extensive experience as founder and board member of Plaza Logistica—the largest developer of logistics parks in Argentina and Uruguay—he brings in-depth expertise and visionary thinking to the implementation of the project. He also serves as a member of the advisory board to the president of Argentina and is a board member of Endeavor, the world's largest entrepreneurship organization.
The +Colonia Project aims to become the most innovative smart city greenfield project in South America. It combines state-of-the-art technology, sustainable urban development, and smart infrastructure concepts to create a forward-looking urban environment. In doing so, +Colonia represents the key to overcoming the challenges of urban growth, digitalization, and environmental sustainability.
Eduardo Bastitta, founder and CEO of +Colonia, is the driving force behind this revolutionary project. With his extensive experience as founder and board member of Plaza Logistica—the largest developer of logistics parks in Argentina and Uruguay—he brings in-depth expertise and visionary thinking to the implementation of the project. He also serves as a member of the advisory board to the president of Argentina and is a board member of Endeavor, the world's largest entrepreneurship organization.
11:30 a.m. | Future cities in the Middle East & Asia – Business potential for German companies
Dr.-Ing. Alexander Rieck (Director and Partner LAVA Laboratory of Visionary Architecture)
Dr.-Ing. Alexander Rieck conducts research at the Fraunhofer IAO and is a partner and director of the international architectural firm LAVA with locations in Stuttgart, Berlin, Sydney, and Dubai. The award-winning international architectural firm LAVA was founded in 2007 by Chris Bosse, Tobias Wallisser and Alexander Rieck and was the European Architecture Prize winner in 2016.
Dr.-Ing. Alexander Rieck conducts research at the Fraunhofer IAO and is a partner and director of the international architectural firm LAVA with locations in Stuttgart, Berlin, Sydney, and Dubai. The award-winning international architectural firm LAVA was founded in 2007 by Chris Bosse, Tobias Wallisser and Alexander Rieck and was the European Architecture Prize winner in 2016.
12:00 p.m. | Caring Future Lab - Healthy City Innovation in Hybrid Prevention and Care
Prof. Elizabeth Sikiaridi (co-founder of Hybrid Space Lab, Berlin)
What does an integrated approach look like that brings together the physical and digital dimensions of care and provides impetus for innovative solutions in the areas of care and prevention? How can we combine the best of technological innovations and digital and hybrid solutions with the sociocultural dimensions of prevention and care? Together, we are developing the healthy city—a 15-minute city with 5-minute communities committed to the One Health concept.
Prof. Elizabeth Sikiaridi contributes internationally to positive developments in society and the environment with the Hybrid Space Lab, a design lab and think tank for cultural innovation.
After studying in Paris and at the Technical University of Darmstadt (graduating with honors), she gained experience at Behnisch & Partner in Stuttgart. She has been a professor at the University of Duisburg-Essen since 1997 and currently heads the master's program “Sustainable Landscape Design and Development” at the TH OWL.
What does an integrated approach look like that brings together the physical and digital dimensions of care and provides impetus for innovative solutions in the areas of care and prevention? How can we combine the best of technological innovations and digital and hybrid solutions with the sociocultural dimensions of prevention and care? Together, we are developing the healthy city—a 15-minute city with 5-minute communities committed to the One Health concept.
Prof. Elizabeth Sikiaridi contributes internationally to positive developments in society and the environment with the Hybrid Space Lab, a design lab and think tank for cultural innovation.
After studying in Paris and at the Technical University of Darmstadt (graduating with honors), she gained experience at Behnisch & Partner in Stuttgart. She has been a professor at the University of Duisburg-Essen since 1997 and currently heads the master's program “Sustainable Landscape Design and Development” at the TH OWL.
12:00 p.m. | Caring Future Lab - Healthy City Innovation in Hybrid Prevention and Care
Prof. Frans Vogelaar (co-founder of Hybrid Space Lab, Berlin)
Since the 1980s, Prof. Frans Vogelaar has been doing pioneering work in the development of hybrid space, the fusion of physical space and digital networks. In 1998, he established the world's first Hybrid Space chair at the Academy of Media Arts Cologne. With Hybrid Space Lab, Frans Vogelaar works extensively on an international level, contributing to innovation for governments, cultural institutions, professional associations, and global companies. He develops projects for combined physical and digital, urban-architectural, and media spaces that integrate biological and technological dimensions.
Vogelaar studied at the Design Academy in Eindhoven (graduating with honors) and the Architectural Association School of Architecture (AA) in London, and worked at Studio Alchymia/Alessandro Mendini in Milan and the Office for Metropolitan Architecture/Koolhaas.
Since the 1980s, Prof. Frans Vogelaar has been doing pioneering work in the development of hybrid space, the fusion of physical space and digital networks. In 1998, he established the world's first Hybrid Space chair at the Academy of Media Arts Cologne. With Hybrid Space Lab, Frans Vogelaar works extensively on an international level, contributing to innovation for governments, cultural institutions, professional associations, and global companies. He develops projects for combined physical and digital, urban-architectural, and media spaces that integrate biological and technological dimensions.
Vogelaar studied at the Design Academy in Eindhoven (graduating with honors) and the Architectural Association School of Architecture (AA) in London, and worked at Studio Alchymia/Alessandro Mendini in Milan and the Office for Metropolitan Architecture/Koolhaas.
12:30 p.m. | PANEL: The “Future Positive” Experiment - True Progress in Urban Systems (in English)
(Prof. E. Sikiaridi, E. Bastitta, Prof. F. Vogelaar, Dr. Ing. A. Rieck, Prof. Dr.-Ing V. Borkmann)
Prof. Elizabeth Sikiaridi (Co-founder of Hybrid Space Lab, Berlin)
Eduardo Bastitta (Founder & CEO, +Colonia, Argentina/Uruguay)
Prof. Frans Vogelaar (Co-founder of Hybrid Space Lab, Berlin)
Dr.-Ing. Alexander Rieck (Director and Partner, LAVA Laboratory of Visionary Architecture)
MODERATION:
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Vanessa Borkmann (Head of Urban Systems Engineering, Fraunhofer IAO)
Prof. Elizabeth Sikiaridi (Co-founder of Hybrid Space Lab, Berlin)
Eduardo Bastitta (Founder & CEO, +Colonia, Argentina/Uruguay)
Prof. Frans Vogelaar (Co-founder of Hybrid Space Lab, Berlin)
Dr.-Ing. Alexander Rieck (Director and Partner, LAVA Laboratory of Visionary Architecture)
MODERATION:
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Vanessa Borkmann (Head of Urban Systems Engineering, Fraunhofer IAO)
1:20 PM | Introduction to the session
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Vanessa Borkmann (Head of Urban Systems Engineering, Fraunhofer IAO)
1:30 PM | Synthetic Realities - Visualization and speculation of critically urban spaces with artificially intelligent systems.
Prof. Marc Engenhart (Founder Engenhart ° Design Studio)
Using contemporary solutions, methodologies and practical use cases, Marc Engenhart shows how critical constellations of urban spaces can be captured, analyzed and rethought through the targeted use of artificially intelligent systems.
Marc Engenhart is the founder of Engenhart ° Design Studio and works on projects in the areas of applied communication design, interaction design, scenography, speculative design, critical design and transmedia. The studio has received numerous national and international awards for its innovative work.
He teaches and researches at colleges and universities in the fields of communication design, interaction design, human-computer interaction and typography. Engenhart is also a freelance writer on speculative-critical design for @theunthinkablehub. He is also co-author of the standard work „Design and Artificial Intelligence, founder of the conference "Designing with Artificial Intelligence (dai)," and co-founder of the cultural format @playtimealbumsessions.
Using contemporary solutions, methodologies and practical use cases, Marc Engenhart shows how critical constellations of urban spaces can be captured, analyzed and rethought through the targeted use of artificially intelligent systems.
Marc Engenhart is the founder of Engenhart ° Design Studio and works on projects in the areas of applied communication design, interaction design, scenography, speculative design, critical design and transmedia. The studio has received numerous national and international awards for its innovative work.
He teaches and researches at colleges and universities in the fields of communication design, interaction design, human-computer interaction and typography. Engenhart is also a freelance writer on speculative-critical design for @theunthinkablehub. He is also co-author of the standard work „Design and Artificial Intelligence, founder of the conference "Designing with Artificial Intelligence (dai)," and co-founder of the cultural format @playtimealbumsessions.
2:00 p.m. | Metaverse-enhanced Smart Spaces: Building Resilient and Sustainable Urban and Industrial Futures (in English)
Joe Appleton (President, Metaverse-Enhanced Spaces Alliance (MESA), Smart Cities Director, BizzTech, Austin)
Joe Appleton is Smart Cities Director at BizzTech and President of the Metaverse-Enhanced Spaces Alliance (MESA).
BizzTech is one of the world's leading providers of customized metaverse solutions for cities and businesses.
BizzTech's Urban Metaverse Platform offers tailor-made solutions for the challenges facing tomorrow's cities. As an inspiring urban storyteller and business strategist, he combines technology, urban planning, and creativity to drive innovation.
With his expertise in public-private projects and the organization of global events such as the Urban Metaverse Summit, Appleton is committed to designing sustainable, people-centered smart cities and promoting the ethical integration of the metaverse worldwide.
He also writes as a columnist for the Smart City Journal, Barcelona, and is a member of the international social impact organization Smart City Council.
Joe Appleton is Smart Cities Director at BizzTech and President of the Metaverse-Enhanced Spaces Alliance (MESA).
BizzTech is one of the world's leading providers of customized metaverse solutions for cities and businesses.
BizzTech's Urban Metaverse Platform offers tailor-made solutions for the challenges facing tomorrow's cities. As an inspiring urban storyteller and business strategist, he combines technology, urban planning, and creativity to drive innovation.
With his expertise in public-private projects and the organization of global events such as the Urban Metaverse Summit, Appleton is committed to designing sustainable, people-centered smart cities and promoting the ethical integration of the metaverse worldwide.
He also writes as a columnist for the Smart City Journal, Barcelona, and is a member of the international social impact organization Smart City Council.
2:30 p.m. | Heilbronn as a role model for urban business development – a focus on the IPAI
Tim Schmitt (Head of Corporate Real Estate, IPAI)
For over 15 years, Tim Schmitt has been dedicated to the question of how workspaces can be designed in a future-oriented way to inspire people and increase their productivity. In doing so, he explores key topics: What motivates us to seek out workspaces? How does collaborative work promote creativity and effectiveness?
During this time, he has gained extensive experience in the design and optimization of working environments, both nationally and internationally. As Global Workplace Experience Manager at Mann+Hummel and as a consultant for spatial planning at Deutscher Sparkassenverlag, he has implemented groundbreaking projects.
Since 2024, Tim Schmitt has been Head of Corporate Real Estate at IPAI, where he translates the vision of a “Global Home of Human AI” into inspiring spatial concepts.
For over 15 years, Tim Schmitt has been dedicated to the question of how workspaces can be designed in a future-oriented way to inspire people and increase their productivity. In doing so, he explores key topics: What motivates us to seek out workspaces? How does collaborative work promote creativity and effectiveness?
During this time, he has gained extensive experience in the design and optimization of working environments, both nationally and internationally. As Global Workplace Experience Manager at Mann+Hummel and as a consultant for spatial planning at Deutscher Sparkassenverlag, he has implemented groundbreaking projects.
Since 2024, Tim Schmitt has been Head of Corporate Real Estate at IPAI, where he translates the vision of a “Global Home of Human AI” into inspiring spatial concepts.
3:00 p.m. | Introduction to the session
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Vanessa Borkmann (Head of Urban Systems Engineering, Fraunhofer IAO)
3:05 PM | Cities in Digital Transition: Avatars as the Future of Urban Communication
Maximilian Schmierer (CEO, B.Rex)
The article highlights how digital avatars are revolutionizing urban space as innovative communication tools. He shows how virtual interactions strengthen citizen dialogue, simplify administration and promote participatory models. Insights into opportunities and challenges of digital transformation open up new perspectives for cities with a future.
Maximilian Schmierer is an entrepreneur and expert in interactive media, virtual reality and digital transformation. As founder and managing director of B.REX GmbH, he advises international companies and leads projects in the field of virtual worlds – currently with a special focus on digital, human avatars in cooperation with Fraunhofer IAO. With his extensive experience and passion for pioneering technologies, he provides exciting insights into the potential of virtual avatars in the metaverse.
The article highlights how digital avatars are revolutionizing urban space as innovative communication tools. He shows how virtual interactions strengthen citizen dialogue, simplify administration and promote participatory models. Insights into opportunities and challenges of digital transformation open up new perspectives for cities with a future.
Maximilian Schmierer is an entrepreneur and expert in interactive media, virtual reality and digital transformation. As founder and managing director of B.REX GmbH, he advises international companies and leads projects in the field of virtual worlds – currently with a special focus on digital, human avatars in cooperation with Fraunhofer IAO. With his extensive experience and passion for pioneering technologies, he provides exciting insights into the potential of virtual avatars in the metaverse.
3:20 p.m. | How we are bringing the future of agriculture to the city. Sustainability meets taste
Jedrzej Cichocki (Managing Director, Kleinblatt, Stuttgart)
Jedrzej Cichocki is the founder of Kleinblatt, Germany's first “city farm” specializing in the production of seedlings and mushrooms. Together with his fellow student Mauricio Ojeda, he founded the company after gaining practical experience in indoor farming. Today, Kleinblatt produces seedlings and mushrooms in resource-saving systems in Silberburgstraße according to the principles of urban agriculture.
Cichocki is committed to sustainability, for example by avoiding single-use plastics and reusing plant substrates. With its focus on urban farming, Kleinblatt saves on transport routes and delivers fresh products to around 30 restaurants in Stuttgart and the surrounding area.
Jedrzej Cichocki is the founder of Kleinblatt, Germany's first “city farm” specializing in the production of seedlings and mushrooms. Together with his fellow student Mauricio Ojeda, he founded the company after gaining practical experience in indoor farming. Today, Kleinblatt produces seedlings and mushrooms in resource-saving systems in Silberburgstraße according to the principles of urban agriculture.
Cichocki is committed to sustainability, for example by avoiding single-use plastics and reusing plant substrates. With its focus on urban farming, Kleinblatt saves on transport routes and delivers fresh products to around 30 restaurants in Stuttgart and the surrounding area.
3:35 p.m. | The metropolis of the future through the eyes of children
Dominik Bär (Managing Director, Kinderfreundliche Kommunen e.V.)
Dominik Bär Dominik Bär is the managing director of the association Kinderfreundliche Kommunen e.V. (Child-Friendly Communities). Previously, he monitored the implementation of children's rights in and by Germany at the monitoring body of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child at the German Institute for Human Rights. He was responsible for policy advice as a consultant for child policy at the German Children's Fund and promoted the implementation of children's rights at the local level in a children and youth office.
Dominik Bär Dominik Bär is the managing director of the association Kinderfreundliche Kommunen e.V. (Child-Friendly Communities). Previously, he monitored the implementation of children's rights in and by Germany at the monitoring body of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child at the German Institute for Human Rights. He was responsible for policy advice as a consultant for child policy at the German Children's Fund and promoted the implementation of children's rights at the local level in a children and youth office.
3:35 p.m. | The metropolis of the future through the eyes of children
Bernhard Hanel (founder of World Child Forum, Davos, founder of Mätsch, studio for interaction)
Bernhard Hanel, 57, studied cultural design, worked part-time as a DJ and art tour guide, and founded KKuk GmbH for play and outdoor space design in 2004. His association KuKuk Kultur e.V. builds shelters and play areas worldwide. In 2020, he founded the Freispielakademie (Free Play Academy) to research the importance of free play for child development. “Man is only truly human when he plays”—he sees it the same way as Schiller. Hanel has six children and lives with his family and several animals on a farm in the Black Forest. In 2022, he launched the World Child Forum Davos as a complementary event to the World Economic Forum.
Bernhard Hanel, 57, studied cultural design, worked part-time as a DJ and art tour guide, and founded KKuk GmbH for play and outdoor space design in 2004. His association KuKuk Kultur e.V. builds shelters and play areas worldwide. In 2020, he founded the Freispielakademie (Free Play Academy) to research the importance of free play for child development. “Man is only truly human when he plays”—he sees it the same way as Schiller. Hanel has six children and lives with his family and several animals on a farm in the Black Forest. In 2022, he launched the World Child Forum Davos as a complementary event to the World Economic Forum.
Session 4: Outlook: Daring to try something new
3:45 p.m. | Future Everything – Innovation as a Strategie
Raphael Gielgen (Vitra GmbH, trend scout, future of work)
The changes before us are characterized by an unprecedented dynamic in which the future is becoming the present at high speed. This also means that our world of work is changing faster than we thought possible. The interaction and interlocking of technologies plays a central role here. Different technologies are increasingly merging with each other, creating new tools and possibilities that were previously unimaginable. This development takes us from a knowledge-based to a skills-based economy. In this new form of economy, more emphasis is placed on individual skills and competencies than on traditional certificates or job titles.
In his keynote, Raphael Gielgen establishes the connections and outlines the challenges and potential that lie ahead. All actors are required to shape the future while mastering the present. We will then gradually make the transformation positive in the decade ahead if we plan ambitiously not one possible future but many alternatives.
Raphael Gielgen travels the world like few people. Always with the question in mind: What will be the nature of a change in knowledge work in five or ten years? Every year he visits more than 100 companies, startups, universities and research institutions in the USA, Europe and Asia. He speaks at conferences, festivals, and events, sharing his insights and experiences experientially and generously in more than 20 countries each year. Knowledge work is facing the greatest transformation in its young history, and companies are faced with designing the future while navigating the present.
The changes before us are characterized by an unprecedented dynamic in which the future is becoming the present at high speed. This also means that our world of work is changing faster than we thought possible. The interaction and interlocking of technologies plays a central role here. Different technologies are increasingly merging with each other, creating new tools and possibilities that were previously unimaginable. This development takes us from a knowledge-based to a skills-based economy. In this new form of economy, more emphasis is placed on individual skills and competencies than on traditional certificates or job titles.
In his keynote, Raphael Gielgen establishes the connections and outlines the challenges and potential that lie ahead. All actors are required to shape the future while mastering the present. We will then gradually make the transformation positive in the decade ahead if we plan ambitiously not one possible future but many alternatives.
Raphael Gielgen travels the world like few people. Always with the question in mind: What will be the nature of a change in knowledge work in five or ten years? Every year he visits more than 100 companies, startups, universities and research institutions in the USA, Europe and Asia. He speaks at conferences, festivals, and events, sharing his insights and experiences experientially and generously in more than 20 countries each year. Knowledge work is facing the greatest transformation in its young history, and companies are faced with designing the future while navigating the present.
4:25 p.m. | Farewell and preview of the evening program at Gutbrod
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Vanessa Borkmann (Head of Urban Systems Engineering, Fraunhofer IAO)
FUTURE LAB
LIEDERHALLE, RAUM 20
1:00-2:30 p.m. | What does mobility look like tomorrow? Future is what we make of it.
Future – what we make of it: How do we shape the mobility of the future?
What does mobility look like tomorrow? We develop innovative solutions for urban and rural areas together with participants and discuss the importance of visions of the future.
Central questions of this FutureLab are: What forms of mobility do we want? How can mobility be made sustainable and efficient? They develop a concrete vision of the future and learn how curiosity and enthusiasm promote innovation. Take inspiration and practical methods with you to rethink mobility and actively shape the future!
Zukunft – das, was wir daraus machen: Wie gestalten wir die Mobilität der Zukunft?
Wie sieht Mobilität morgen aus? Wir entwickeln gemeinsam mit den Teilnehmenden innovative Lösungen für urbane und ländliche Räume und diskutieren die Bedeutung von Zukunftsvisionen.
Zentrale Fragen dieses FutureLabs sind: Welche Mobilitätsformen wünschen wir uns? Wie kann Mobilität nachhaltig und effizient gestaltet werden? Sie erarbeiten eine konkrete Zukunftsvision und erfahren, wie Neugier und Begeisterung Innovationen fördern. Nehmen Sie Inspiration und praxisnahe Methoden mit, um Mobilität neu zu denken und die Zukunft aktiv zu gestalten!
Impulse: Concepts for sustainable mobility and intelligent urban development in the city of the future
Markus Hofheinz (CEO, Wöhr Autoparksysteme)
The cities of the future face the challenge of adapting to growing urban space and increasing mobility needs. Innovative concepts for parking space, mobility and logistics are essential to create a livable and sustainable city. Smart solutions such as space-saving parking systems, vertical parking and neighborhood garages help to use valuable space efficiently and optimize inner-city traffic.
Additionally, modern logistics in Mega Cities require new approaches to make the last mile sustainable and efficient. Concepts such as micro-depots and autonomous delivery vehicles offer solutions to reduce traffic volumes and ensure fast deliveries.
The focus on sustainability plays a central role here: energy-efficient infrastructures, the integration of renewable energies and the promotion of alternative forms of mobility, such as bicycle parking for bicycles, e-scooters and cargo bikes, are essential building blocks for future-oriented urban development. These holistic approaches create a sustainable and livable urban future.
https://woehr.de/de/ueber-woehr/stadt-der-zukunft.html
Markus Hofheinz has been CEO of WÖHR Autoparksysteme GmbH, one of the world's leading manufacturers of car and bicycle parking systems, since 2021. Wherever areas are scarce and dense parking solutions are in demand, intelligent and technologically high-quality parking systems are used. As CEO of WÖHR Autoparksysteme, Markus Hofheinz focuses on strategic and operational business and sales development.
The cities of the future face the challenge of adapting to growing urban space and increasing mobility needs. Innovative concepts for parking space, mobility and logistics are essential to create a livable and sustainable city. Smart solutions such as space-saving parking systems, vertical parking and neighborhood garages help to use valuable space efficiently and optimize inner-city traffic.
Additionally, modern logistics in Mega Cities require new approaches to make the last mile sustainable and efficient. Concepts such as micro-depots and autonomous delivery vehicles offer solutions to reduce traffic volumes and ensure fast deliveries.
The focus on sustainability plays a central role here: energy-efficient infrastructures, the integration of renewable energies and the promotion of alternative forms of mobility, such as bicycle parking for bicycles, e-scooters and cargo bikes, are essential building blocks for future-oriented urban development. These holistic approaches create a sustainable and livable urban future.
https://woehr.de/de/ueber-woehr/stadt-der-zukunft.html
Markus Hofheinz has been CEO of WÖHR Autoparksysteme GmbH, one of the world's leading manufacturers of car and bicycle parking systems, since 2021. Wherever areas are scarce and dense parking solutions are in demand, intelligent and technologically high-quality parking systems are used. As CEO of WÖHR Autoparksysteme, Markus Hofheinz focuses on strategic and operational business and sales development.
Moderator
Katharina Ehrenmüller (Ministry of Curiosity and Future Pleasure)
Katharina Ehrenmüller is an expert in transformation, innovation and leadership. She accompanies companies in Austria and Germany in change processes and teaches at the Danube University Krems, the IMC University of Applied Sciences Krems and the University of Graz in the areas of digital transformation and human-centered innovation. As co-CEO of Pro Active GmbH, co-initiator of makefuture.today and co-founder of the „Ministry for Curiosity and Future Pleasure“, she provides important impetus for future-oriented projects. Katharina lives in Vienna and is passionate about topics such as art, culture, diversity and sustainability. Her heart beats for culinary and first-class service.
As co-CEO of Pro Active GmbH, co-initiator of makefuture.today and co-founder of the „Ministry for Curiosity and Future Pleasure“, she provides important impetus for future-oriented projects.
Katharina lives in Vienna and is passionate about topics such as art, culture, diversity and sustainability. Her heart beats for culinary and first-class service.
Katharina Ehrenmüller is an expert in transformation, innovation and leadership. She accompanies companies in Austria and Germany in change processes and teaches at the Danube University Krems, the IMC University of Applied Sciences Krems and the University of Graz in the areas of digital transformation and human-centered innovation. As co-CEO of Pro Active GmbH, co-initiator of makefuture.today and co-founder of the „Ministry for Curiosity and Future Pleasure“, she provides important impetus for future-oriented projects. Katharina lives in Vienna and is passionate about topics such as art, culture, diversity and sustainability. Her heart beats for culinary and first-class service.
As co-CEO of Pro Active GmbH, co-initiator of makefuture.today and co-founder of the „Ministry for Curiosity and Future Pleasure“, she provides important impetus for future-oriented projects.
Katharina lives in Vienna and is passionate about topics such as art, culture, diversity and sustainability. Her heart beats for culinary and first-class service.
Moderator
Jens Noll (Ministry of Curiosity and Future Pleasure)
Jens Noll is an ambassador for the Ministry of Curiosity & Future Lust and a partner of ProActive. His passion is to support companies, teams and leaders in intentionally changing and shaping the future. As an expert in transformation and innovation, he brings in-depth behavioral economics knowledge, over 10 years of project experience advising leading national and international companies, and a wide range of behavioral design tools. Jens Noll teaches at various universities such as the University of St. Gallen HSG (Transformation & Leadership), the IMC (Human Centered Innovation) and in courses (e.g. Co-lead Agile Leadership & Transformation).
Jens Noll is an ambassador for the Ministry of Curiosity & Future Lust and a partner of ProActive. His passion is to support companies, teams and leaders in intentionally changing and shaping the future. As an expert in transformation and innovation, he brings in-depth behavioral economics knowledge, over 10 years of project experience advising leading national and international companies, and a wide range of behavioral design tools. Jens Noll teaches at various universities such as the University of St. Gallen HSG (Transformation & Leadership), the IMC (Human Centered Innovation) and in courses (e.g. Co-lead Agile Leadership & Transformation).
WRS-CLUBHOUSE IM GUTBROD
FRIEDRICHSTRASSE 10, 70174 STUTTGART
TecNet Digitalization regularly focuses on innovative digital technologies that have the potential to change mobility for the better. Experience an inspiring event with the presentation of two groundbreaking developments that will significantly shape the mobility of tomorrow.
5:00–10:00 PM | TecNet Digitalization & Subsequent Get-Together with Futuromundo Speakers
TecNet Digitalization & Subsequent Get-Together with Futuromundo Speakers
TecNet Digitalization regularly focuses on innovative digital technologies with the potential to positively transform mobility.
Experience an inspiring event featuring the presentation of two groundbreaking developments that will significantly shape the mobility of tomorrow.
Two technologies, one vision: Rethinking mobility—connected, intelligent, and future-proof.
Following the two technical presentations, the internationally renowned Digital Prophet David “Shingy” Shing will contextualize the technologies within the current global and digital landscape.
The event concludes with an exchange and networking session, welcoming the speakers of the Futuromundo Multi-Conference + Festival.
TecNet Digitalization regularly focuses on innovative digital technologies with the potential to positively transform mobility.
Experience an inspiring event featuring the presentation of two groundbreaking developments that will significantly shape the mobility of tomorrow.
Two technologies, one vision: Rethinking mobility—connected, intelligent, and future-proof.
Following the two technical presentations, the internationally renowned Digital Prophet David “Shingy” Shing will contextualize the technologies within the current global and digital landscape.
The event concludes with an exchange and networking session, welcoming the speakers of the Futuromundo Multi-Conference + Festival.
5:30 PM | Boundless Connectivity for Connected Mobility
Jasmin Rimmele (Head of Corporate Development, UNIO Enterprise)
UNIO Enterprise develops the backbone of permanent connectivity with the vision of a LEO constellation by 2030 (currently already two satellites in orbit). By intelligently combining 5G technology and satellite communication based on an AI switch, a seamless network is created—available anytime, anywhere.
UNIO enables the automated transition between terrestrial and satellite-based connections, overcoming coverage gaps precisely where other systems reach their limits.
The mobility of the future is being reimagined—smart, secure, and satellite-supported.
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Vanessa Borkmann (Head of Urban Systems Engineering, Fraunhofer IAO)
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Vanessa Borkmann is a professor of tourism with a focus on hotel management at SRH Berlin University of Applied Sciences. At Fraunhofer IAO in Stuttgart, she leads research in the Smart Urban Environments team within the field of urban system design. Her research covers topics including “Living, Hotels, Travel & Destinations,” “Cities, Districts & Food Supply,” and “Arts, Culture & Museums.”
As a trained architect, member of the Baden-Württemberg Chamber of Architects, and PhD-qualified work scientist, she investigates concepts and solutions for innovative environments and service innovations in this context.
UNIO Enterprise develops the backbone of permanent connectivity with the vision of a LEO constellation by 2030 (currently already two satellites in orbit). By intelligently combining 5G technology and satellite communication based on an AI switch, a seamless network is created—available anytime, anywhere.
UNIO enables the automated transition between terrestrial and satellite-based connections, overcoming coverage gaps precisely where other systems reach their limits.
The mobility of the future is being reimagined—smart, secure, and satellite-supported.
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Vanessa Borkmann (Head of Urban Systems Engineering, Fraunhofer IAO)
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Vanessa Borkmann is a professor of tourism with a focus on hotel management at SRH Berlin University of Applied Sciences. At Fraunhofer IAO in Stuttgart, she leads research in the Smart Urban Environments team within the field of urban system design. Her research covers topics including “Living, Hotels, Travel & Destinations,” “Cities, Districts & Food Supply,” and “Arts, Culture & Museums.”
As a trained architect, member of the Baden-Württemberg Chamber of Architects, and PhD-qualified work scientist, she investigates concepts and solutions for innovative environments and service innovations in this context.
6:00 PM | Vortifer Drive – The Engine for the Mobility of Tomorrow
Oliver Kauffmann (CEO, KMTC Technologies Holding)
Vortifer Drive is a revolutionary propulsion technology from the Stuttgart region, based on the physical principle of the toroidal vortex. By combining motor power, flow velocity, and an optimized disc geometry, a three-dimensional air vortex is created, providing stable lift, outstanding controllability, and exceptional energy efficiency. The technology offers innovative solutions for various industries—from aviation and automotive to energy generation, transport & logistics, and plant engineering.
With Vortifer, mobility and energy generation can be completely reimagined: efficient, sustainable, and ready to meet the challenges of the future.
Vortifer Drive is a revolutionary propulsion technology from the Stuttgart region, based on the physical principle of the toroidal vortex. By combining motor power, flow velocity, and an optimized disc geometry, a three-dimensional air vortex is created, providing stable lift, outstanding controllability, and exceptional energy efficiency. The technology offers innovative solutions for various industries—from aviation and automotive to energy generation, transport & logistics, and plant engineering.
With Vortifer, mobility and energy generation can be completely reimagined: efficient, sustainable, and ready to meet the challenges of the future.
7:00 PM | Digital Competencies for the World of Tomorrow
David "Shingy" Shing (Futurist, Digital Prophet, New York)
David Shing — widely known as “Shingy” — is an Australian futurist, speaker, creative director, strategic digital advisor, and entrepreneur. Known for his performative personality and his polarizing nickname “Digital Prophet,” Shingy is a multidimensional creative who specializes in advising brands on inventive and sustainable strategies to enhance digital brand value. He helps global companies identify opportunities through innovative uses of digital, social, and mobile media.
David Shing — widely known as “Shingy” — is an Australian futurist, speaker, creative director, strategic digital advisor, and entrepreneur. Known for his performative personality and his polarizing nickname “Digital Prophet,” Shingy is a multidimensional creative who specializes in advising brands on inventive and sustainable strategies to enhance digital brand value. He helps global companies identify opportunities through innovative uses of digital, social, and mobile media.
Kultur- & Kongresszentrum Liederhalle
Berliner Platz 1-3
D - 70174 Stuttgart
DIRECTIONS DETAILS
Cannstatter Wasen
Cannstatter Wasen is easily accessible by car, coach, public transport, on foot or by bike. Bus and train stops are located in the immediate vicinity of the festival grounds.
DIRECTIONS DETAILS
Hotels
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