The future of the events industry comes together in Berlin: the grand finale of Captain MICE Future on 24 November

Berlin, 9 November 2026. Who has the best idea for the future of the events industry? The decision will be made on Tuesday, 24 November 2026: from 4 pm, the Association of Event Organisers (VDVO) invites you to the grand final of its Captain MICE Future innovation competition at the Festsaal Kreuzberg in Berlin. Innovative companies and creative minds will present their forward-looking concepts and compete for the coveted title of ‘Captain MICE Future 2026’.

The final was preceded by a series of pre-pitches held as part of the MEET GERMANY SUMMITS in Munich, Berlin, Frankfurt, Dortmund and Stuttgart. There, innovative companies had the opportunity to present their ideas to an industry audience and face an initial public vote. The results achieved there will be factored into the final decision as a small head start in the voting. However, companies that did not take part in the pre-pitches can also compete in the grand final. This keeps the competition open to further exciting innovations from the meetings and events industry.

Whether digital solutions, new technologies or innovative services – the concepts presented demonstrate the potential for change within the events industry.

What makes it special is that it is not a panel of experts, but the audience, who decide the winner. The event professionals in attendance can experience the innovations first-hand, discuss them with the founders and then vote for their favourite.

“With Captain MICE Future, we want not only to showcase innovative ideas, but also to bring them directly to the people who decide whether to put them into practice. Immediate feedback from the industry is incredibly valuable for young companies. And for our guests, it’s an excellent opportunity to get to know tomorrow’s solutions today,” explains Björn Sänger, Chairman of the VDVO.

Strong partners for a special final

The Festsaal Kreuzberg, which is supporting the VDVO as a venue partner, provides the perfect setting for the final. With its unique atmosphere, this Berlin event venue on the Flutgraben creates the ideal setting for creative ideas, personal encounters and an inspiring exchange within the events industry.

Guests can also look forward to a culinary highlight: KOCHBOX, featuring Katharina Müller and TV chef Dirk Müller, is the catering partner for the finale and will provide the perfect culinary experience with freshly prepared delicacies. The event thus combines exciting insights into the future with a relaxed networking atmosphere and a special gastronomic experience.

“We are delighted to have two fantastic partners at our side: Festsaal Kreuzberg and KOCHBOX. Both embody what defines our industry: special experiences, creativity and the joy of bringing people together,” said Sänger.

Experience innovation, make contacts and have your say

The Captain MICE Future final is more than just an awards ceremony. It is a meeting place for event planners, agencies, companies, service providers and anyone who wants to play an active role in shaping the future of the MICE industry. In addition to the presentations and the audience vote, the afternoon and evening offer ample opportunity to make new contacts, exchange ideas and initiate potential collaborations.

Event details

• Date: Tuesday, 24 November 2026, from 4.00 pm

• Venue: Festsaal Kreuzberg, Am Flutgraben 2, 12435 Berlin

• Organiser: Association of Event Organisers (VDVO)

• Partners: Festsaal Kreuzberg and KOCHBOX

Information and registration:
https://tms.aloom.de/berlin-berlin-berlin-das-grosse-finale

About the VDVO

The Association of Event Organisers (VDVO) is the leading network for professional event planners and organisers in German-speaking countries. The VDVO is committed to quality, sustainability, professional development and the strategic advancement of the events industry.