Business Innovation & Startups Forum

Historical Background
The origins of the Business Innovation & Startups Forum trace back to the early 2010s, when global entrepreneurship conferences began highlighting the need for collaboration between startups, corporations, and governments. The first edition of the forum was held in 2014 in Berlin, focusing on entrepreneurial resilience and creative business solutions during post-economic recovery. Over the following decade, the event expanded globally, hosting editions in Singapore, Dubai, London, and Toronto.

The Amsterdam edition marks the forum’s twelfth year, symbolizing its growth into a globally recognized platform for innovation-driven enterprise. Amsterdam itself, a city known for its entrepreneurial spirit, digital infrastructure, and vibrant startup ecosystem, provides an ideal location for this international gathering.

Conference Overview The Business Innovation & Startups Forum 2026 is built around the theme “Innovate. Disrupt. Transform.” It emphasizes the power of creative entrepreneurship and technological innovation as catalysts for global economic development. The forum will explore emerging startup ecosystems, digital entrepreneurship, funding models, sustainability-driven business design, and strategies for scaling innovation in the 21st century.

Participants will discuss the future of industries shaped by automation, artificial intelligence, and data analytics while exploring how innovation can address societal and environmental challenges. The event aims to inspire next-generation entrepreneurs and empower established organizations to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving digital economy.

Sessions and Key Discussions Throughout the four days, the forum will host sessions on business strategy, startup funding, innovation design, and technology adaptation. Leading entrepreneurs and venture capital experts will share insights on global investment trends, startup scaling, and sustainable business practices. Panels will address issues such as developing resilient business models, integrating sustainability into innovation, and empowering women in entrepreneurship.
Special workshops will be conducted on topics including artificial intelligence in startups, the Internet of Things (IoT) in modern enterprises, and effective use of blockchain for business growth. Case studies from global markets will provide participants with practical insights into how disruptive ideas evolve into successful ventures.

Speakers and Participants
The event will feature global leaders from both industry and academia. Renowned CEOs, startup founders, innovation strategists, and professors from leading business schools will share their expertise. Previous editions have included representatives from Google for Startups, the European Innovation Council, and the MIT Entrepreneurship Program. The 2026 conference will continue this tradition, offering a blend of global perspectives and regional expertise.

Networking and Exhibitions
The Business Innovation & Startups Forum will also feature an international Startup Expo, showcasing new ventures, technologies, and investment-ready projects. Entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to present their innovations to venture capitalists, angel investors, and business accelerators. Networking sessions will be organized to encourage partnerships, mentorship, and business collaborations across industries.
A dedicated Innovation Lounge will allow participants to engage in discussions, form alliances, and explore cross-border market expansion opportunities. Additionally, the Investor-Startup Matchmaking Program will facilitate direct connections between investors and promising startups, providing a strong foundation for growth and funding.

Audience and Participation
The forum is open to entrepreneurs, startup founders, corporate executives, business consultants, investors, policymakers, and academicians. It serves as a valuable platform for individuals and organizations aiming to explore cutting-edge innovation and business strategies. Students, researchers, and young innovators are also encouraged to participate to gain exposure to global entrepreneurial practices and trends.

Venue and Location
The 2026 edition will be held at Herengracht 542–556, one of Amsterdam’s most distinguished conference venues located along the city’s historic canal belt. The venue combines modern facilities with elegant design, offering state-of-the-art presentation technology, exhibition spaces, and collaborative lounges. It is easily accessible via public transportation and located near Amsterdam’s main business districts, hotels, and cultural attractions, providing a world-class experience for all participants.

Organizers and Partners
The Business Innovation & Startups Forum 2026 is organized by ICS-AMS (International Conference Series – Amsterdam) in partnership with the European Innovation Council, the Global Entrepreneurs Network, and the International Business Institute. Supporting partners include regional accelerators, academic institutions, and technology companies that share a commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.
Media collaborations include coverage by Business Insider Europe, Forbes Innovation, Startup Europe News, and The Entrepreneurial Review, ensuring global visibility and industry recognition.

Conclusion
The Business Innovation & Startups Forum 2026 will serve as a cornerstone event for visionary leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs dedicated to redefining the future of business. By creating a collaborative environment for knowledge exchange and strategic partnerships, the forum aims to empower individuals and organizations to embrace change, drive growth, and build a sustainable entrepreneurial ecosystem.
The Amsterdam edition, held from 22 to 25 March 2026, promises to deliver transformative insights, global networking opportunities, and a forward-looking vision for the role of innovation in shaping economic and social progress worldwide.