Gaining early visibility on major industry stages and international trade fairs can give high-potential ventures a decisive competitive edge. Trade Shows & Stages is a selective, high-impact exposure program organized by KIT FORGE at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT). Designed for advanced technology startups, spin-offs, and research teams preparing to scale, the service provides direct access to joint trade show booths, high-profile pitch competitions, and leading global tech conventions.
By leveraging KIT’s institutional standing and ecosystem partnerships, KIT FORGE handles expensive booth logistics, secures coveted pitching slots, and provides targeted stage coaching—allowing founder teams to focus entirely on lead generation, investor matchmaking, and international partner acquisition without burning early-stage capital.
Platforms & participation opportunities
- Joint trade show booth: High-visibility co-exhibitor placement at premier national and international tech expos (e.g., Hannover Messe, Bits & Pretzels) under the prestigious KIT umbrella.
- Stage & pitch preparation: Intensive pitch coaching, slide deck refinement, and Q&A training to maximize audience impact during pitch competitions and panel discussions.
- Targeted partner & investor matchmaking: Strategic pre-event introductions to corporate innovation leaders, prospective industrial clients, and international venture capital partners.
- Talent & employer branding (KIT Career Fair): Startup presence at the official KIT Career Fair (KIT-Karrieremesse), enabling founders to position their venture as an attractive employer and directly recruit engineering, tech, and business talent from KIT.
Have questions or interested? Get in touch!
