> ## Content Index
> Fetch the complete content index at: https://www.therecursive.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover other available public pages before exploring further.

# Bits & Pretzels 2026
- URL: https://www.therecursive.com/innovation-with-a-bavarian-twist-bits-pretzels-2026/
- Published: 2026-05-26T14:39:01.000Z
- Updated: 2026-08-17T13:56:31.000Z
- Description: Bits & Pretzels hosts 7,500 founders, investors, and industry leaders for three days full of learning, networking, and doing business during Munich Oktoberfest.
- Author: Lenka Vranová
- Tags: Calendar

📅 **Date:** September 28-30, 2026  
📍 **Location:** Munich, Germany  
🏢 ****Venue:** [International Congress Center Messe](https://www.google.com/maps/place/ICM+-+International+Congress+Center+Messe+M%C3%BCnchen/@48.1366297,11.6899124,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x479e0a8c8eb2de87:0x370e57880ab5ab11!8m2!3d48.1366297!4d11.6924873!16s%2Fm%2F012dvctj?coh=277534&entry=tts&g%5Fep=EgoyMDI1MTIwOS4wIPu8ASoKLDEwMDc5MjA3MUgBUAM%3D&skid=602ef773-1e4e-44bd-9375-eb86c1262cbb&ref=therecursive.com)

[Check the agenda! ](https://www.bitsandpretzels.com/?ref=therecursive.com) 

As autumn approaches, the global startup community is setting its sights on Munich for **Bits & Pretzels 2026**. Known as "Europe’s leading founders festival," this event uniquely blends high-level tech insights with the world-famous atmosphere of Oktoberfest. This year’s edition is particularly significant, as it doubles down on the human element of entrepreneurship in an increasingly automated world.

Taking place from **September 28 to 30, 2026**, the festival will host 7,500 curated attendees — ensuring that every handshake has the potential to turn into a partnership.

## The Festival Structure

Bits & Pretzels 2026 is designed to move from intense learning to informal, impactful networking:

- **10+ Content Stages:** Covering everything from the "Sovereign AI" movement to DeepTech and the future of SaaS.
- **The CIO AI Summit:** An invitation-only platform connecting startups with over 500 CIOs from Germany’s industrial "Hidden Champions."
- **The Pitch Corner:** A high-pressure arena where selected startups give 90-second presentations to a panel of top-tier VCs.
- **Academy & Masterclasses:** Deep-dive sessions led by "Unicorn" founders who have successfully scaled businesses to billion-dollar valuations.

### Why 2026 is Different: "Human After All"

In a landscape dominated by generative AI and digital transformation, the 2026 theme—**"Human After All"**—focuses on the resilience of the founder. The event will explore the intersection of mental health in tech, ethical leadership, and how European founders can maintain a competitive edge through "Human-Centric Innovation."

> "Bits & Pretzels isn't just about the tech—it's about the people behind it. We’re bringing back the 'human' in an era of algorithms."

### Liquid Networking

The highlight of Bits & Pretzels remains its third day, which moves from the exhibition halls to a dedicated tent at **Oktoberfest**.

- **Table Captains:** 400+ industry icons, successful founders, and veteran investors host individual tables.
- **Matchmaking:** Every attendee is guaranteed two pre-matched meeting sessions with people who can actually move the needle for their business.
- **The Atmosphere:** Business deals are famously closed over pretzels and beer, proving that the most important connections often happen outside the boardroom.

### High-Profile Lineup

While the full 2026 roster is being unveiled in waves, early headliners include visionary voices focused on European technological independence and industrial tech. Expect a mix of global tech icons (following the tradition of past speakers like Michelle Obama and Jeff Koons) and the CEOs of Europe's most aggressive scale-ups.

Whether you're looking to raise your Series A, scout for breakthrough AI solutions, or simply connect with the brightest minds in the DACH region, Bits & Pretzels 2026 is the ultimate destination for the entrepreneurial spirit.