Dear Bits & Pretzels Community,
We are excited to unveil the theme for Bits & Pretzels 2025: Connecting Europe. After the success of last year’s Kickstart Europe, we’re doubling down on what matters most: building stronger, faster, and more ambitious connections within Europe’s startup ecosystem and beyond.
Europe’s Startup Scene is at a Pivotal Moment
In 2024, startups across Europe raised $45 billion, slightly less than the $47 billion in 2023, but signs of a major rebound are clear. Over 100 European late-stage companies are gearing up for IPOs, and funding is gaining momentum. The next wave of European unicorns is just around the corner.
At the same time, founders and investors are navigating major shifts: new regulations, changing trade landscapes, and the challenge of scaling globally. Instead of seeing these as obstacles, we see opportunity, and Connecting Europe is about seizing it together.
CONNECTING EUROPE – WHAT’S IN FOR YOU?
Bits & Pretzels isn’t just another conference. It’s where deals are made, investments are secured, and partnerships take off. Here’s what’s waiting for you in 2025:
1. Meet the Right People—Faster
Your network is your unfair advantage. We make sure you meet the right investors, partners, and clients, whether you’re looking for funding, hiring top talent, or expanding internationally. Our curated matchmaking, new private networking events, and VIP summits bring together the best minds in the business.
2. Get Insider Knowledge You Can Actually Use
No fluff, no vague inspiration, just actionable insights from founders who have scaled billion-dollar companies, investors who know where the market is heading, and policy leaders shaping the business environment. Our Investor Summit, CIO Summit, and expanded workshop formats will equip you with strategies that directly impact your growth.
3. Expand Beyond Borders
The best founders think global from day one. With top international VCs, industry leaders, and startup hubs in attendance, Bits & Pretzels 2025 is your gateway to expanding your business across Europe and into the world. This year, we are forging more country partnerships than ever before and welcoming a record number of representatives from national organizations across Europe. With 20+ partner countries at the event, we are fostering cross-border collaboration and unlocking access to international markets for startups and investors alike. This means more opportunities to connect with decision-makers from different markets and expand your reach beyond your home country.
THE MOMENT IS NOW
Europe has never been better positioned to challenge the status quo. AI breakthroughs from companies like DeepSeek show that the dominance of US tech giants isn’t inevitable. Funding for late-stage startups is returning, and policymakers are beginning to push for a more competitive startup ecosystem.
The question is: Are you ready to be part of it?
Join 7,499 other founders, investors, and decision-makers this September in Munich. Expect high-impact networking, real business opportunities, and the most dynamic startup crowd in Europe.
Got innovative ideas or valuable contacts? We’d love to hear from you. Let’s build the future of Europe together and stay tuned for upcoming exciting announcements soon.
See you in Munich!
with the entire Bits & Pretzels Team.