Match Arena

At our major matching event, start-ups and representatives of our members come together to network and exchange ideas about topic-specific cooperation opportunities. The next Match Arena will take place in autumn 2025

This is the Match Arena

We bring together what belongs together

Innovations are created when the right people come together to drive their ideas forward - and this is exactly where the Match Arena comes in.

Keynotes & Input

Be inspired and gain exciting insights into the latest developments in the innovation ecosystem.

Pitches & Exhibitions

Experience startup pitches on four cutting-edge topics and discover pioneering solutions.

Networking & Matchmaking

Network with like-minded people in a relaxed atmosphere and make valuable contacts through app-based matchmaking.

Match Arena

Facts and figures about the Match Arena

200+

Participants

4

Focus topics

20+

Startups

50+

Start-up corporate meetings

Match Arena in der MHP Arena Stuttgart
Guests at the Match Arena
Guests at the Match Arena
Guests at the Match Arena
Match Arena
Our references

What Match Arena participants say

the last Match Arena

The Match Arena in a thrilling stadium atmosphere

Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of our event in November 2024 in the MHP Arena Stuttgart.

Participation opportunities

Would you like to take part in the Match Arena in the MHP Arena?

Icon

Present your startup

We are always on the lookout for exciting new startups. Do you think your startup should definitely be part of the Match Arena? Then write a message directly to Björn Brenner.

Icon

Participate as a company

With the Corporate Membership your company will automatically receive access to the Match Arena and many other exclusive events and services. Sounds interesting? For more information you can contact Nico Bühler turn.

Get a wildcard

Are you neither a startup nor a corporate member? Then secure one of our limited wildcards now! Simply fill out the online application form and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

The programme

The Match Arena in a thrilling stadium atmosphere

The last Match Arena took place on 28 November 2024 in the MHP Arena Stuttgart. There was an afternoon full of exciting startup pitches, targeted matchmaking and inspiring encounters.

MHP Arena Stuttgart
14:00 - 15:00

Doors open

15:00 - 15:10

Welcome to

Franzi Glaser - Moderator

15:10 - 15:25

Greeting by VfB Stuttgart

Christian Ruf - Director Digital & Innovation VfB Stuttgart
Alexander Wehrle - Chairman of the Board of Management VfB Stuttgart

15:30 - 15:35

Impulses

Christoph Wist - Former VP Production and Procurement Logistics Group, STIHL (Main Stage)
Katharina Jung - Co-Founder & COO of ONUAVA (Pitching Stage)

15:35 - 16:10

Startup Pitches

Future Production & Supply Chain (Main Stage)
Digitalisation for Humans & Systems (Pitching Stage)

16:10 - 16:45

Break

Networking & optional guided tour of the MHP Arena

16:45 - 16:50

Impulses

Kai Blisch - Managing Partner of Partner in Clime (Main Stage)
Maike Lambarth - Co-Founder & CEO of Cyclize (Pitching Stage)

16:50 - 17:25

Startup Pitches

Climate & Green Tech (Main Stage)
Deep Tech Deep Dive (Pitching Stage)

17:30 - 17:45

Keynote: My founding journey

Lisa Gradow - Founder & CEO of Fides | Investor
Topic: My startup journey - intuition, values and network as a recipe for entrepreneurial success

17:45 - 18:05

Panel: New business through collaboration

Alfons Riek - Vice President for Technology and Innovation Festo
Lisa Gradow - Founder & CEO of Fides | Investor
Steffen Greiner - Managing Director ads-tec Industrial IT
Topic: New business through collaboration - how large companies and startups benefit equally from building business ecosystems

18:05 - 20:00

Networking

Currywurst, cool drinks and an optional guided tour of the MHP Arena

FAQ

Frequently asked questions about the Match Arena

What is the Match Arena?

The Match Arena is an exclusive networking event where start-ups and representatives of our corporate members come together to network and exchange ideas about topic-specific cooperation opportunities.

When and where will the next Match Arena take place?

The next Match Arena will take place in autumn 2025. We are currently still in the middle of planning this event. As soon as more information is available, it will be published here.

How do I get a ticket for the Match Arena?

There are two ways to get a ticket to the Match Arena.

For corporates: Companies with a Corporate Membership automatically receive access to the Match Arena. If your company does not yet have a membership, you can apply for one of our limited wildcards. Fill in the Online application form and our event team will get in touch with you.

For startups: Interested startups can apply directly to us. Contact us Björn Brennerto find out more about the application options and to present your startup.

Can I present my startup at the Match Arena?

Yes, you can apply with your startup for the Match Arena. We are always looking for innovative startups who would like to present their solutions and technologies. Send an e-mail to Björn Brennerto briefly introduce yourself and your startup.

Contact us

Do you have questions about the Match Arena?

Do you have any questions about the programme or registration? For all matters relating to the Match Arena, please contact Miriam.

You can see our colleague Miriam Hofele.

Miriam Hofele

Event Success Manager

Fancy something new?

Then take a look around our job portal.

To the job portal