On 16 and 17 June 2026, the trade fair ‘Digital Administration in Research Institutions’ took place for the first time at the Energiepark. The event was organised by the Leibniz Institute for Educational Trajectories (LIfBi), which used this new event format to bring together specialists and senior managers from administration, academia and research. The aim of the fair was to present current developments, innovative software solutions and digital technologies for modern administrative processes in a practical context, and to promote dialogue between research institutions and suppliers. With 55 exhibitors and just under 250 visitors, this inaugural event proved to be a successful industry gathering of great professional relevance.
In addition to the extensive trade exhibition, guests were treated to a varied supporting programme. Workshops and specialist presentations by the exhibitors took place over both days in the Eichenzimmer, Glashaus and Parkgalerie rooms. Topics such as digitalisation, IT security, human resources management, contract award, procurement and artificial intelligence took centre stage. On the main stage in the element-e Hall, panel discussions provided fascinating insights into the current challenges and future prospects of digital administration. The programme was complemented by several start-up spotlights, where young companies presented their innovative solutions. Throughout both days of the event, presenter Felix guided proceedings with charm and expertise, ensuring a professional setting and a smooth running of the event.
For the networking evening on the first day of the event, the Energiepark’s courtyard was transformed into a spacious beer garden for around 350 guests. With an outdoor bar, barbecue buffet and summery atmosphere, it provided the ideal setting to round off the first day of the fair in a relaxed manner and to make new contacts.
Musical entertainment was provided by Bamberg-based musician David Saam together with his colleagues. The live music lent the evening a special atmosphere and made the summer party a successful meeting place for exchange and networking between research institutions, service providers and technology suppliers.
Even away from the specialist presentations, numerous activities attracted attention. LIfBi welcomed all participants with goodie bags, including hand-painted mugs from alsterarbeit in Hamburg, whilst a popcorn machine at the eVergabe.de stand added to the fair’s festive atmosphere. The prize draw for a World Cup jersey at the Scopeland stand generated particular excitement, attracting many visitors and providing a talking point throughout the fair.
With its flexible event spaces, in-house stage and exhibition stand construction system, modern workshop rooms and spacious networking areas, the Energiepark provided the perfect conditions for this new trade fair format. The combination of professional infrastructure, a sustainable environment and versatile spatial concepts enabled both focused work and personal interaction between participants. The Energiepark thus proved once again to be the ideal venue for innovative specialist events, conferences and trade fairs focusing on future-oriented topics.
The trade fair’s successful debut impressively demonstrated the high level of interest in digital solutions for research institutions. With numerous expert presentations, new contacts and practical insights, the event provided a valuable platform for knowledge transfer and networking.
As the only certified EU Green Building in the events industry, the Energiepark in Hirschaid offers the ideal setting for trade fairs and events of all kinds. Flexible halls, customisable room layouts, high-quality technology and sustainable infrastructure create a unique atmosphere – all from a single source.
Subscribe to our eventletter for the latest news from the events industry.