Digital Summit Economy 4.0 Baden-Württemberg: Shaping the Economy of Tomorrow

The Digital Summit Economy 4.0 Baden-Württemberg, one of the largest nationwide events for the digitization of the economy, took place in Stuttgart on June 22. After a three-year break due to the pandemic, more than 3,000 representatives from business, research, and politics gathered at the Porsche Arena to exchange views on current trends in the digitization of the economy.

The event featured 120 national and international experts who spoke about key technologies such as artificial intelligence, quantum technology, robotics, IT security, green tech, and new work. Success stories from Baden-Württemberg and global best practice examples were shared, along with strategies to address the shortage of skilled workers using digital innovations. Attendees also had the opportunity to participate in workshops and learn about funding opportunities, particularly for start-ups and medium-sized companies.

One of the highlights of the event was the awarding of the nine AI champions BW 2023. The unique aspect of this award was that it was produced with the help of artificial intelligence in a 3D printer. The audience was also treated to a special performance by the Stuttgart Chamber Orchestra, which played pieces of music specially composed by an artificial intelligence.

Dr. Nicole Hoffmeister-Kraut, Minister for Economy, Labor, and Tourism, emphasized the importance of the event in shaping the economy of tomorrow. She stated, “The high number of visitors and the great interest in today’s topics impressively underline our claim in Baden-Württemberg to play a key role in shaping the economy of tomorrow.”

The significance of digitization for the economy was further highlighted by the “Monitoring Report – Economy DIGITAL Baden-Württemberg 2023,” which was presented during the Digital Summit. The report, commissioned by the Ministry of Economics, examined the degree of digitization in the economy of Baden-Württemberg and set targets for 2025. It revealed that medium-sized companies have made significant progress in digitization in the past three years. However, sectors such as mechanical and vehicle engineering, construction, and other manufacturing industries still lag behind.

To address this, the Economy 4.0 Baden-Württemberg initiative was launched in 2017. The initiative aims to advance the digitization of the economy, especially for small and medium-sized companies, across all sectors and throughout the state. Since its inception, projects and measures worth around half a billion euros have been approved.

The Digital Summit Economy 4.0 Baden-Württemberg serves as the central top event of the Economy 4.0 initiative. It provides companies with the opportunity to exchange information, network, and learn about the latest technologies, funding opportunities, and current trends in digitization.

Dr. Hoffmeister-Kraut concluded, “We want Baden-Württemberg to continue to be one of the most innovative regions in Europe, especially when it comes to future technologies. This is what the Economy 4.0 Baden-Württemberg initiative and the Economy 4.0 Baden-Württemberg Digital Summit stand for.”

The recorded lectures and the award ceremony of the AI champions BW 2023 are available in German and English until June 30, 2023, on the event’s website. Photos from the Digital Summit 2023 can also be accessed on the official website.

Overall, the Digital Summit Economy 4.0 Baden-Württemberg showcased the region’s commitment to driving digitization in the economy and fostering innovation. With the support of the Economy 4.0 initiative, companies in Baden-Württemberg can fully develop their digital potential and contribute to the region’s position as one of the most innovative in Europe.

How did the Digital Summit Economy 4.0 Baden-Württemberg contribute to driving innovation and growth in the digital sector

Of Economy, Labor, and Tourism, provided an overview of the current state of digitization in the region and identified areas for improvement. It emphasized the need for a strong digital infrastructure, investment in research and development, and support for innovation and digital skills.

The Digital Summit Economy 4.0 Baden-Württemberg showcased the region’s commitment to the digital transformation of the economy and its ambition to be a leader in the field. By bringing together experts, entrepreneurs, and policymakers, the event fostered collaboration and knowledge exchange, driving innovation and growth in the digital sector.

The event also highlighted the role of artificial intelligence in shaping the future of the economy. The AI champions BW 2023 award recognized individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to the development and application of AI. The use of AI in the production of the award itself demonstrated the potential of this technology in various industries.

In addition to AI, other key technologies such as quantum technology, robotics, and IT security were also discussed at the event. These technologies have the potential to revolutionize industries and enable new forms of economic activity. The event provided a platform for sharing success stories and best practices, inspiring attendees to adopt these technologies in their own organizations.

Funding opportunities, particularly for start-ups and medium-sized companies, were also highlighted at the Digital Summit. This support is crucial for driving innovation and facilitating the adoption of new technologies by businesses of all sizes. Workshops provided practical guidance on accessing funding and building partnerships to accelerate digital transformation.

Overall, the Digital Summit Economy 4.0 Baden-Württemberg was a milestone event for the region’s digital economy. It brought together stakeholders from different sectors to discuss key technologies, share knowledge, and explore opportunities for collaboration. The event demonstrated the region’s commitment to shaping the economy of tomorrow through digitization and innovation.