Apply now: Spotlight your Idea X Forward Festival
Become a Speaker at Forward Festival 2026 in Berlin and Vienna
Do you have a bold creative idea that deserves the spotlight? Then apply as a speaker at Forward Festival Berlin (27–28 August) and Vienna (1–2 October) and share your vision with an international community of forward-thinkers.
The programme is aimed at creatives with fresh perspectives and compelling stories to tell. Selected speakers receive professional coaching and personal feedback to sharpen their talk and step onto the stage with confidence. Whether you're just starting out in your field or already established – this is your chance to inspire, connect, and gain international visibility.
Past speakers such as Total View, Catherine Spet, S()fia Braga, Georgios Tsampounaris, Stephanie Meisl and Gerald Geier have wowed audiences with talks on digital art, AI, climate change, and more.
Apply by 11 June via this link!
Spotlight Your Idea is a cooperation between Forward Creatives and the Vienna Business Agency.
Who is the call for?
The call is open to outstanding ideas from founders and entrepreneurs across all areas of the creative industries. We are particularly interested in projects focusing on digital literacy, education, or critical tech skills; creative digital approaches to healthcare; and the intersection of design, technology, and social impact.
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Submission criteria
You are a Creative in the early stage of a business or already running a business successfully. You can travel to Forward Festival Berlin on 27–28 August 2026 (Travel expenses will be covered). You can be in Vienna on 1–2 October 2025 for Forward Festival Vienna. You can take part in the 101 or Online coaching session in July 2026
Sonderregelungen englisch
Zoom notice for online events Please note the following data protection information: the Vienna Business Agency is only an intermediary between the webinar provider Zoom Video Communications, Inc. (Zoom) and you as the invitee; the Zoom data protection regulations therefore apply exclusively, while the Vienna Business Agency undertakes no responsibilities, obligations or liabilities of any kind. Please consult the Zoom Privacy Statement, which is available from the company’s website (www.zoom.us).
Contact
Questions about the event? Please contact us.
