Business on board – River Rhine connects

On September 9, 2025, the time had come: The “Business im Fluss” event entered its fifth round – this time once again on the impressive event ship MS RheinMagie. Over 600 participants from business, science, politics, and administration came together to exchange ideas on forward-looking technologies, social developments, and concrete innovation projects.

Thomas Jarzombek, Parliamentary State Secretary at the Federal Ministry of Digital and Public Service, kicked off the festivities. In his keynote speech, he described the new ministry's program, including the so-called Germany Stack. Andreas Feicht, CEO of RheinEnergie AG, welcomed the guests on board and explained the current situation on the energy market, for example with regard to the energy requirements of AI data centers.

Other highlights of the evening included two panel discussions:

„AI meets quantum technology“– a topic that could hardly be more topical. Moderated by Susanne Fabry, CEO of RheinEnergie AG, the panel discussion featured:

• Ina Brandes, Member of the State Parliament, Minister of Culture and Science of North Rhine-Westphalia
• Prof. Astrid Lambrecht, Chair of the Board of Directors of Forschungszentrum Jülich
• and Klaus Kappen, CTO at Rheinmetall

This was followed by the panel discussion “AI meets business” with:

• Martin Vesper, Chief Digital Officer, Pfeifer & Langen
• Christoph Gümbel, Partner, Future Matters AG
• Viacheslav Gromov, Founder and Managing Director of AITAD

The experts provided exciting insights into the current state of research and industrial applications, but also highlighted the challenges, not least in light of geopolitical changes.

The subsequent award ceremony for outstanding start-ups was exemplary of entrepreneurial courage and innovative strength. The event concluded with an atmospheric get-together with a buffet and drinks, providing an opportunity for personal exchange. The Aldenhoven Testing Center was also there as a guest. Micha Lesemann from the management team had many stimulating conversations and was able to make numerous new contacts.

We are delighted that the Aldenhoven Testing Center was once again able to be part of this future-oriented event – with exciting discussions, valuable insights, and new perspectives.

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