Network events

FReiDENKEN

Since November 2019, the network event FReiDENKEN of the Freiburg Convention Bureau of Freiburg Wirtschaft Touristik und Messe GmbH & Co. KG (FWTM) has taken place quarterly and in a wide variety of locations in Freiburg. The industry meet is aimed at managers operating in the MICE industry or as organisers of meetings, incentives, conferences and events. Our aim is to strengthen Freiburg as a MICE location and to raise its national and international standing. Companies that organise events themselves and would like to gain new ideas and meet new partners are also welcome.

FReiDENKEN 2026: The future is built on courage

Inspiring ideas, new perspectives and valuable exchanges within the Freiburg MICE network

On 22 July 2026, our FReiDENKEN event series took place in the unique setting of the Dilger Winery in Freiburg. Just under 50 representatives from the regional MICE sector took the opportunity to network, share experiences and reflect together on the future of the events industry.

The highlight of the evening was the inspiring keynote speech by Carsten Fuchs, a visionary, entrepreneur and author. Under the title “The future is built on courage! A healthy dose of optimism for the future. And plenty of ‘we can do it’.” he made it clear that the future is not a matter of chance, but the result of attitude, decisions and collective action.

The future begins with confidence

With plenty of energy, humour and numerous practical examples, Carsten Fuchs demonstrated why, particularly in times of change, it is not uncertainty but confidence that is the decisive factor for success. His central message: anyone who wants to shape the future should focus not on obstacles, but on opportunities.

In doing so, he provided the participants with various food for thought:

• Courage trumps perfection – progress rarely comes from endless planning, but from trying out new ideas.
• Change is an opportunity – those who remain open to new perspectives recognise possibilities where others see problems.
• Shaping the future together – Innovation arises above all through exchange, cooperation and joint action.
• ‘It can be done!’ rather than ‘It can’t be done!’ – A positive mindset creates space for creativity and new approaches to problem-solving.

Particularly fascinating was the realisation that the future does not simply happen at some point in the future, but is already being shaped today by the decisions we make. For the events industry, this means actively embracing trends, boldly testing new formats and strategically strengthening networks.

A special venue for new ideas

The venue provided the perfect setting for this inspiring evening. The Dilger Winery combines Freiburg’s organic wine-growing tradition with modern hospitality and a unique atmosphere.

The special combination of regional roots, warm hospitality and an exceptional location made the winery an ideal host for our FReiDENKEN event.

Exchange, networking and fresh ideas

Following the keynote speech, guests took the opportunity to reflect further on the evening’s insights over a glass of wine and engage in conversation with one another. In a relaxed atmosphere, new contacts were made, exciting discussions took place and numerous ideas for future collaborations within the Freiburg MICE network emerged.

It was precisely this open exchange that once again highlighted just how valuable face-to-face encounters are for the further development of our conference and congress destination.

Thank you for a successful evening

Our heartfelt thanks go to the Dilger Winery for their excellent hospitality, and to Carsten Fuchs for his inspiring talk and the many thought-provoking insights on optimism for the future, opportunities and the will to shape the future.

We would also like to thank all participants for the open discussions, the positive energy and the valuable exchange of ideas.

We are already looking forward to the next FReiDENKEN and to working with our network to develop new perspectives for Freiburg as a venue for congresses, conferences and events. Because one thing became particularly clear this evening:

The future is built on courage.