This year’s Photonics Days Berlin Brandenburg, organized by OpTecBB e.V. and partners, has set new records and once again confirmed its position as one of Europe’s leading networking events for the photonics and quantum technology community.
With 26 thematic sessions, over 100 speakers, and participants from 24 countries, the two-day event brought together researchers, industry experts, investors, and startups to explore cutting-edge developments and future trends across the photonics sector. For the first time the tickets were completely sold out.
The event was officially opened by His Excellency Pascual Navarro, Ambassador of Spain to Germany and the Head of Department III – Energy, Digitalization, and Innovation at the Senate Department for Economics, Energy, and Enterprises, Thomas Krause, setting the tone for two inspiring days of dialogue and innovation.
A special highlight this year was the celebration of OpTecBB’s 25th anniversary – complete with an impressive 30-kg cake shared among attendees.
Continuing a long-standing tradition, the Laserverbund Berlin-Brandenburg e.V. presented its Award for Outstanding Achievements in Laser Research, with this year’s honor going to Dr. Björn Wedel – congratulations on this well-deserved recognition!
Immediately following, the PhD2CEO Pitching Session showcased five talented young founders presenting their startups to an expert jury (Alexandra Rydz, Dr. Silvia Bensel, Marta Agueda Carlero, and William Stevens). The main prize and winner’s check were awarded to Isabella Douzoglou – a truly impressive achievement!
The Company Pitching Event also achieved great success, featuring 21 participating companies showcasing innovative technologies and products.
In addition, Tech Tour Photonics Berlin 2025, hosted as part of the Photonics Days, connected 30+ selected companies, 40+ seasoned investors, and facilitated over 80 one-to-one meetings. The event once again proved to be a unique platform where research meets investment – and where the next generation of photonics breakthroughs begins.
Participants also enjoyed a rich accompanying program, including tours of the Adlershof Technology Park, and visits to the Ferdinand-Braun-Institut, Max-Born-Institut, and Paul-Drude-Institut, as well as the BarBQ Special Edition @Leap – an informal networking highlight in a relaxed setting.
With strong international participation, vibrant discussions, and inspiring collaborations, Photonics Days 2025 once again demonstrated the power and potential of the photonics ecosystem in Berlin-Brandenburg and beyond.
📅 Save the Date: Photonics Days 2026 – October 7–8, 2026!