Investment Vernissage // 18 June 2026 // 20 Uhr //
Investment Vernissage_
An exhibition of opportunities – where startups and investors connect.
The Investment Vernissage is not a pitch competition. It is a curated interaction format with prepared materials, one poster per startup, and real space for conversation instead of stage presence and time pressure. Since 2023, the format at the Waterkant Festival has brought investment-ready startups from Northern Europe together directly with suitable investors – in a setting that works.
Applications are open to all sectors. The focus is on energy/green tech, AI, ocean/maritime, open source and life sciences.
In cooperation with
For startups_
Exhibit instead of pitching_
-
As at a vernissage, each startup presents its poster – the key facts at a glance. What follows are not timed pitch slots, but real exchange: investors who have done their homework, and conversations that can go deep.
Access to curated investors_
-
You’ll meet business angels, venture capitalists and investors from Northern Europe – in an intimate setting that encourages genuine conversation.
Visibility beyond the evening_
-
The Waterkant Festival reaches startups, corporates, and media across the region – your presence at the Investment Vernissage extends beyond a single evening.
Application Deadline May 24, 2026
„The Investment Vernissage at the Waterkant Festival exceeded our expectations in more ways than one. The innovative format, coupled with exceptional opportunities for interaction and a top-class selection of teams, made it an outstanding event.”
// Dr. Klaas Rackebrandt, CEO Scalania AG
For investors_
Arrive prepared. Engage with intent_
-
You receive pitch decks and startup data in advance – no cold first conversations, but informed discussions from minute one.
Curated deal flow quality_
-
All start-ups go through a selection process. You will meet a hand-picked group of founders ready for investment, specialising in energy/green tech, AI, ocean/maritime, open source and life sciences.
Market insights and trend spotting_
-
Identify promising trends early and gain insights into current developments across industries.
Registration deadline May 24, 2026
The fourth Waterkant Investment Vernissage_
Since 2023, the Investment Vernissage has been the matchmaking format of the Waterkant Festival. What sets it apart from other formats: no startup stands alone on a stage. Instead—a poster, a short intro, and then the evening belongs to the conversations. Pre-curated. Focused. Effective.
Thursday, June 18 // 8:00 PM // Waterkant Festival
For more information_