Deep Dive Automotive Tech - Ukrainian and German entrepreneurs exchange ideas

01.08.2025

Ukrainische und deutsche Unternehmer im Austausch | Foto: Ukrainische und deutsche Unternehmer im Austausch

From July 8 to 10, 2025, more than 50 experts from innovative Ukrainian technology companies and German firms gathered in Berlin as part of the Regional Transformation Network for the Vehicle and Supplier Industry Berlin-Brandenburg (ReTraNetz-BB) to explore concrete opportunities for cooperation in an intensive exchange. The three-day meeting was organized by bbw University in collaboration with ua.ventures and aBB e.V., the association of automotive suppliers in the capital region.

Networking on equal terms

The workshop on the second day was the focus of the event. The aim was to get to know each other, but also to discuss the general framework conditions for business contacts between Ukrainian and German companies. Company presentations on various topics such as robotics, cyber security, defense and security technology, e-mobility, sensor technology, AI in production, and sustainable packaging technology provided the starting point for exciting discussions and initial concrete business contacts. Later, breakout sessions in small groups further explored the key topics of series production in Germany, the use of AI in production, and the design of international cooperation.

"Before this event, I had been to many conferences where there was rarely time for real conversations. Here, we were able to really exchange experiences and problems and develop ideas together," emphasized a Ukrainian entrepreneur.
At the end, other participants also highlighted the trusting and open exchange, which was also thanks to the professional moderation by Inna Nelles from the German-Ukrainian Office for Reconstruction.

One German participant said she was "impressed by the flexibility and agility of Ukrainian entrepreneurs. Despite all the challenges, they manage to run successful businesses - it is precisely this exchange that can be very valuable for both sides."

On-site industry insights

The meeting was rounded off on the third day with direct insights into the production processes of regional companies and a research institute. Visits were made to EBK Krüger GmbH, BMW Motorradwerk Berlin, and the Fraunhofer Institute for Production Systems and Design Technology IPK.

Prospects

Based on the positive feedback from all participants and the initial project ideas and cooperation approaches identified, the activities are to be continued. Discussions on defining specific measures are already underway. The aim is to deepen the exchange that has begun, involve further partners, and continue to promote cooperation between companies from Ukraine and Germany.

One participant summed it up: "We have noticed that there are many similarities. Both sides see opportunities in cooperation-and for me personally, this is leading to very concrete new partnerships."
In general, it has become clear how the ReTraNetz-BB transformation network can provide cross-sector and cross-regional impetus to strengthen the innovative power of companies in Berlin and Brandenburg and to develop new international partnerships.