On October 22, 2025, the Cambridge Innovation Center (CIC) Berlin welcomed nearly 1,000 guests – including partners, members, and representatives from research, business, and government – to celebrate a special double milestone: the first anniversary of CIC Berlin and the official opening of the #ai_berlin hub.
The event brought together leaders and innovators to toast a year of growth, collaboration, and creativity – and to mark the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Berlin’s artificial intelligence ecosystem.
A Year of Innovation, Community, and Vision
Since opening in 2024, CIC Berlin has quickly become one of the city’s most dynamic destinations for startups, established companies, and creative professionals. Spanning roughly 150,000 square feet, the innovation campus combines office, lab, and event spaces designed not just to host ideas – but to bring them to life.
CIC Berlin has fostered an ecosystem where collaboration, entrepreneurship, and forward thinking intersect to transform concepts into market-ready innovations.
Founded in 1999 in Cambridge, Massachusetts, CIC operates a global network of innovation campuses across North America, Europe, and Asia. Whether in Boston, Rotterdam, or now Berlin, CIC’s mission is consistent: connecting people, ideas, and institutions to accelerate innovation. Through flexible workspaces, customized programs, and advisory services that help cities develop forward-looking innovation districts, CIC contributes to building new economic ecosystems around the world.
In just one year, CIC Berlin has become a vibrant hub within the city’s innovation landscape. Through our strategic partnership with the #ai_berlin hub, we’re bridging research, industry, and startups – creating a space where the future of artificial intelligence is being shaped alongside our international Aethos community.
– Timon Rupp, Managing Director, CIC Berlin
#ai_berlin hub Opens – Connecting for the Future of AI
Coinciding with the anniversary celebration, the new #ai_berlin hub was officially inaugurated by Berlin’s Deputy Mayor and Senator for Economics, Energy and Public Enterprises Franziska Giffey and Dr. Stefan Franzke, CEO of Berlin Partner.
The initiative – led by Berlin Partner and supported by the Senate Department for Economics, Energy and Public Enterprises – connects stakeholders from research, business, and public administration to position Berlin as a leading international center for artificial intelligence. The hub serves as an open network and neutral platform for collaboration, exchange, and joint projects.
As the core team, we’re part of the ecosystem. We understand the needs of our stakeholders, spark collaborative initiatives, and serve as a central contact point for partners. When everyone brings their strengths together, we can establish Berlin as the global leader in trustworthy AI.
– Philipp Günther, Manager, #ai_berlin hub
An Evening of Inspiration
The evening program reflected the creative energy of Berlin’s innovation community. Highlights included a keynote address by Jean Arnaud on “European Sovereignty in the Age of AI” and the AI Showroom powered by IHK Berlin, which showcased cutting-edge community projects.
The event also featured “Heartless Pitches,” a dynamic format presented by Venture Café Berlin, part of the global network connecting entrepreneurs, creatives, and investors.
Another highlight was “The Nekra Project,” an interdisciplinary performance by Lori Baldwin, blending art, the human body, and artificial intelligence in striking visual form.
Guests enjoyed an AI art installation, a live sketch artist, and interactive networking sessions – all set to DJ sets in a relaxed, celebratory atmosphere that lasted well into the night.
About CIC Berlin
CIC Berlin is part of the global Cambridge Innovation Center network, which has been shaping innovation ecosystems worldwide for more than 25 years. Through tailored programs, inspiring spaces, and an engaged community, CIC empowers companies, startups, and institutions to develop and scale sustainable innovations.
