DLD22 Preview: Speakers and Topics

May is an unusual month for DLD Munich, but it’s the perfect month this year because we can finally invite you to join us in person again from May 20–22.

Expect three days of inspiration, networking, finding new friends and connecting with future business partners. We have a stellar lineup of expert speakers addressing some of the most pressing topics of our time: from sustainability and new energy to security, mobility, health and medicine.

In addition, we’re bringing together creatives, business leaders, startup founders and investors to discuss where innovation, digital transformation and the world economy are heading next.

Below you’ll find a quick look at select speakers and topics. For practical information about ticket applications and this year’s venue, the Gasteig cultural center in downtown Munich, please visit our conference page. This has the full speaker list as well. And please note that all information given here is subject to change.

Quantum Leaps

Quantum computing is making huge advances, but it can be hard to separate hype from substance. Multiple DLD22 sessions with leading researchers and entrepreneurs will provide guidance and show how this revolutionary new computing model promises to speed up drug discovery and can help to battle climate change and dramatically improve business efficiency.

Clean Energy

Becoming carbon neutral means finding alternatives to gas, coal and oil – while keeping the world economy humming. German startup Marvel Fusion aims to build a Quantum-enhanced fusion reactor, Zurich-based Synhelion has found a way to turn sunlight into plane fuel: SWISS plans to begin using it next year.

Machine Intelligence

How smart are computers getting, and what are the effects on business and society? DeepMind has been pushing the boundaries of artificial intelligence with spectacular sucess (think AlphaGo and AlphaFold). Alexandra Mousavizadeh will present the Global AI Index 2022. Andreas Liebl set up appliedAI, already one of the largest initiatives in Europe in the field of applied artificial intelligence. Ask Alexa to find room in your calendar for these sessions.

The Art of Digital

Famed for his boundless imagination, Christoph Niemann has been fusing art and technology in many unexpected ways. He created The New Yorker magazine’s first augmented reality cover, for example, and drew a 360-degree VR animation by hand. At DLD22, he’ll be joined by Iyad Rahwan, who is a leading AI researcher but also a gifted cartoonist. Treat yourself to a few laughs by taking a look at his EvilAICartoons website and be sure to read our interview with Rahwan about his project.

Studying Conflicts

For ideas to bloom, and businesses to thrive, the world needs stability. Political conflicts can have devastating effects even when they fall short of an outright war. Longtime editor-in-chief of Foreign Policy magazine and best-selling author Moisés Naím is widely recognized as one of the leading authorities on international politics. Ukrainian historian Agatha Gorski focuses on preserving the culture and heritage of her country through the Shadows Project, a Ukrainian cultural organization she co-founded. Omar Mohammed informed the world about life under the Islamic State as anonymous blogger “Mosul Eye”. In addition to his academic research, he hosts the pocast series Mosul and the Islamic State.

Innovating in Times of Crisis

Running a company in the 21st century isn’t easy – that’s why we asked two of the world’s most esteemed leadership experts to share their insights: Sven Smit, Chairman of the McKinsey Global Institute, and best-selling author Andrew McAfee, who recently told DLD how Europe needs to change to keep a competitive edge in the global economy.

Future of Health

From biotech and science breakthroughs to healthy highs and health apps: DLD22 will cover a broad spectrum of topics related to body and mind.

The Value of Education

Knowledge is the foundation of progress, but how do schools and universities need to change to accomplish their mission? Let’s hear expert opinions from around the world.

Investing in Tomorrow

Accelerating change means established companies need to adapt, and startups get the chance to reinvent markets – as long as investors are willing to bet on founders and fresh ideas. DLD22 brings experts from all sides together to discuss the future of investing, finance and business.

Digital Bosphorus

Turkey has become a hotspot of digital innovation, thanks to tech-savvy entrepreneurs. We’ve invited some of the best to share their knowledge and experiences.

Welcome to the Metaweb

The next chapter of the digital transformation is being written right now. Among its ingredients: web3, crypto currencies, NFTs and the Metaverse – the new playground for artists, gamers and entrepreneurs. We’ll take a close look at each of these trends at DLD22.