With 2,300 participants, 200 speakers and 140 sessions, AIDAQ 2025 sets a new benchmark
With more than 2,300 participants, 200 speakers and 140 sessions, the AIDAQ – AI, Data & Quantum Summit 2025 has set a new benchmark for Europe’s leading platform dedicated to artificial intelligence, data-driven innovation and quantum technologies. Over two days, the event brought together thought leaders, policymakers, researchers and industry pioneers to explore how these transformative technologies are reshaping Europe’s competitiveness and technological resilience.
A Stage for Europe’s Strategic Dialogue
Across the keynote stage and expert panels, representatives from national and European institutions examined the continent’s role in the global technology landscape – addressing innovation, regulation and digital sovereignty. Discussions centred on how Europe can strengthen its strategic autonomy while accelerating the adoption of emerging technologies.
A special highlight was the Digital Sovereignty Panel, broadcast live from the Vision Dome to the Bechtle Competence Days – reaching an additional 3,000 viewers.
Day 1 Highlights
Day 1 opened with powerful messages from leaders shaping Europe’s technological agenda. Dr Gundbert Scherf (Co-CEO & Founder, Helsing) set the tone with a compelling appeal for European autonomy: “In a world of data dependency, it’s quite essential that Europe builds its own capabilities, sets its own standards, and safeguards its prosperity and freedom.”
The urgency of attracting top talent was emphasised by Parliamentary State Secretary Thomas Jarzombek (Federal Ministry for Digital Transformation and Government Modernisation): “Technology is driven by specialists. We need to bring them here faster and simpler.”
Echoing this ambition, State Secretary Dr Rolf-Dieter Jungk (Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space) framed innovation as central to Germany’s competitiveness: “Made in Germany must once again be the global hallmark of quality and innovation.” He highlighted the Hightech Agenda as a key instrument in strengthening Germany’s leadership in future industries.
From an industry perspective, Agnes Heftberger (CEO, Microsoft Germany) stressed the importance of collective action: “To build a strong ecosystem, we need boldness and the courage to tackle this challenge together.”
Day 2 Highlights
If Day 1 set the strategic tone, Day 2 delivered a deep dive into how AI and quantum technology are transforming organisations, infrastructure and Europe’s innovation landscape. Opening the day, Dr Ralf Wintergerst (President, Bitkom) drew a historical line from previous technology shifts to the next great leap: “From the internet to cloud and AI – each wave cut costs dramatically. Quantum computing will be the next step, reducing the cost of solving complex problems.”
AI expert Kenza Ait Si Abbou emphasised the need for pragmatic execution, highlighting that value creation – not experimentation – must guide enterprise strategies: “AI won’t deliver ROI if it stays a hype tool. To scale, enterprises must prioritise impactful use cases and build solid foundations in IT, tech and data.”
On the Quantum Impact Stage, Daniela Theisinger (Deutsche Telekom Global Business) provided insights into the transition from research to early commercial deployment, noting the rapid acceleration of industry-driven use cases.
A panel featuring Nicola Beer (European Investment Bank), Dr Michael Förtsch (Q.ANT), Dr Christoph Peylo (Robert Bosch) and Roberto Viola (European Commission) explored how investment decisions will shape Europe’s competitiveness in AI and quantum infrastructures. Dr Peylo issued a clear call for unity and strategic focus: “Europe must stop thinking in national silos and pool resources for a European solution. Brussels should focus on building a strong, united Europe, while industry drives technology. Only then can we create a better world.”
Innovation in Action: Exhibition & Expert Formats
Beyond the keynotes, AIDAQ 2025 offered a vibrant showcase of market-ready solutions. On the exhibition floor, global technology leaders and emerging innovators presented cutting-edge AI applications, advanced data platforms and next-generation quantum hardware. Participants gained hands-on insights into technologies already reshaping business models and operational processes. Workshops, masterclasses and meet-ups provided practical guidance on implementation, cybersecurity and commercial readiness.
Highlights to watch & share
In case you missed any key moments, we've put together a recap of the highlights and insights in our photo gallery as well as in our YouTube playlist. Take a look at the top sessions and expert talks that made this year's summit an unforgettable experience.
Looking Ahead
AIDAQ 2025 delivered a clear message: Europe’s position in the global technology landscape will depend on strategic investment, coordinated policy and the capacity to translate scientific advances into scalable, secure and resilient solutions.
We thank all speakers, partners and participants for their contributions and look forward to welcoming the community back on 22 & 23 September 2026.
