September 10th - 11th 2026 · 2 Day Event
Jülich (Cologne), Germany
Jülich (Cologne), Germany
DEEP Startup Ecosystem Conference 2026
The DEEP Conference is our annual gathering for startups, ecosystem builders, innovation teams, founders, partners, stakeholders, and public-sector leaders, featuring inspiring keynotes, DEEP insights, expert panels, DEEP Dives, speed networking, global pitches, the DEEPSEA Demo Day, and more.
Confirmed contributors
The confirmed invited speakers bring perspectives from the cultural and creative industries, deep tech, blue economy, ecosystem building, sustainability, and corporate venturing.
EIT Community Officer & Consortium Partner
Aleksandar Stamboliev
EIT & DigitMak - Macedonian Digital Innovation Hub
Venture Capital & Head of Startup Division
Imre Hild
OUVC & Hungarian Venture Capital Association
Leading Sustainable Energy Innovations & Decarbonisation
Tadas Kubilius
Klaipeda Free Economic Zone (FEZ)
Founder & Deputy Head of the Department of Computational Social Science
Yash Chawla, Ph.D.
CRAFT Lab & Wrocław University of Science and Technology
Community spotlight
Ecosystem leaders and initiatives to meet
DEEP community members who will contribute perspectives from startup support, venture building, public innovation and regional leaders.
Academy of Entrepreneurship
Africa International Policy Research Center (AIPRC)
Capital Catalyst Ecosystems
Cobana
Data Immigrant
Digital Innovation Zone
Divasity Development Services
EIT
Enable Good
Ethiopian Youth Entrepreneurs Association (EYEA)
Fundraise.vc
Good Tech Living Lab
Here Partners
Innobound
Klaipeda Free Economic Zone
Klimatic Inno
Obuda Uni Venture Capital
Olivestone AgriFood Living Labs
Sankofa Lab
Sustainability & Circular Initiatives GmbH
Syreon Research Institute
TUM Venture Labs
Ukrainian Hub
University of Debrecen - Technology Transfer Center
University Venture Capital Coalition
We are changemakers
Winno
Partners
Partner organisations
The conference is co-hosted with ecosystem builders and supported by organisations represented through confirmed contributors.
Supporters
Travel
How to get to Jülich
The DEEP Conference takes place at Startup Village NRW, Marie-Curie-Str. 4, 52428 Jülich, Germany. The conference begins on 10 September at 9:00 AM and ends on 11 September at approximately 3:00 PM after lunch.
Travel information
Open “Plan your Trip” for flights, trains, accommodation and venue directions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to the most common questions. Open only the items you need.
General information
Where is the DEEP Conference taking place?
The DEEP Conference takes place at Startup Village NRW, Marie-Curie-Str. 4, 52428 Jülich, Germany. You can find the venue and travel directions in the travel section on this page.
What language will the conference be held in?
The official language of the conference is English.
What is the expected arrival and departure schedule?
The DEEP Conference will begin on 10 September at 9:00 AM and ends on 11 September at approximately 3:00 PM, following lunch.
What is the event for?
This conference is not focused on fundraising or ticket sales. Its main purpose is to provide an open platform for DEEP members to connect, exchange knowledge, share experiences, and discuss relevant topics within the community.
Registration
How do I register for the conference?
Please register through the online registration system on the DEEP Conference website. You will receive a confirmation email once your registration has been completed.
Can I modify or cancel my registration?
Please refer to the registration terms and conditions on the DEEP Conference website or contact the conference organizers for assistance at info@deep-ecosystems.com.
What is the deadline to apply for the DEEP Conference?
We would appreciate receiving your confirmation by mid-August so that we can finalize your participation as a guest or speaker and proceed with the conference preparations.
Can I receive a certificate of attendance?
Yes, certificates of attendance will be provided to registered participants upon request after the conference. Please contact the organizers for details on how and when to obtain your certificate.
Travel, accommodation and visa
Does the conference provide accommodation or cover travel expenses?
No. The DEEP Conference does not provide accommodation, and unfortunately we are also unable to cover travel expenses. Participants are responsible for arranging and paying for their own travel and accommodation.
Do I need a visa to travel to Germany?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Germany is part of the Schengen Area, and many participants may require a Schengen visa. We can prepare an invitation letter upon request.
Please check the requirements with the German Embassy or Consulate in your country well in advance, as visa processing may take several weeks.
Can I obtain an invitation letter for my visa application?
Sure. If you require an invitation letter to support your visa application, please contact the DEEP Conference organizers after completing your registration.
You may be asked to provide:
- Your full name as shown in your passport
- Date of birth
- Nationality
- Name of your institution or workplace
- Arrival and departure dates in Germany
- Name and address of your accommodation in Germany
Please note that an invitation letter is issued solely for visa purposes and does not guarantee that a visa will be granted. Final decisions are made by the German diplomatic authorities.
During your stay
What is the currency in Germany?
The currency is the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, although carrying some cash is recommended for smaller purchases.
What electrical plugs are used in Germany?
Germany uses Type C and Type F plugs with a standard voltage of 230 V / 50 Hz.
What is the weather like in Jülich in September?
Weather in Jülich during September is usually mild and comfortable, with average daytime temperatures around 15–20°C and cooler evenings. Rain showers are possible, so we recommend checking the forecast before travelling and bringing a light jacket and rain protection.
Will Wi-Fi, meals and presentation materials be available?
Yes, complimentary Wi-Fi will be available at the conference venue.
Please refer to the conference programme for information about coffee breaks, lunches, receptions, or conference dinners included with your registration. If you have dietary requirements, allergies, or food restrictions, please indicate them during registration or contact the organizers in advance.
If speakers agree to share their presentation materials, they will be made available to registered participants after the conference.
Participation and logistics
Is the venue accessible?
The conference venue aims to be accessible to all participants. If you have specific accessibility requirements, please contact the organizers in advance so appropriate arrangements can be made.
Are remote presentation options available?
Remote presentation options may be available for participants who are unable to attend in person. Please contact the organizers for information about remote participation options, technical requirements, and eligibility.
What is the dress code for the conference?
There is no formal dress code for the DEEP Conference. Most participants wear business casual or smart casual attire during the conference sessions. Comfortable footwear is recommended, especially if you plan to explore the venue or participate in networking events.
We may also include optional excursions and outdoor activities, so comfortable walking shoes, light clothing, and a light rain jacket or umbrella are recommended.
Will there be opportunities for networking at the conference?
Absolutely. The DEEP Conference offers numerous opportunities to network with fellow participants throughout the event, including coffee breaks, lunch sessions, network speed dating, poster sessions, and social events.
I have another question. Who should I contact?
If your question is not answered here, please contact the DEEP Conference organizing team at info@deep-ecosystems.com.
DEEPSEA Demo Day
Meet the ecosystem leaders.
The DEEPSEA Demo Day showcases 100 ecosystem leaders who participated in our DEEP Startup Ecosystem Accelerator, sharing what they are building, what they are learning and where partners can get involved.
Get updates
100
Ecosystem leaders
Register now:
The DEEP Conference is for our global community members and partners. Please fill out this form if you want to join. We are happy to get back to you soon to confirm.
Planning note: we would appreciate receiving your confirmation by mid-August so that we can finalize guest and speaker participation.
If you have any issues submitting, email info@deep-ecosystems.com and we will register your interest manually.
Previous editions
Outcomes of previous editions
Explore selected outcomes and white papers created with the DEEP Conference community in previous years.
Get in touch
Contact us
Reach out for partnerships, conference updates, travel questions or newsletter registration.
