The business reception hosted by Bavarian State Parliament member Kerstin Schreyer at the IZB has become a tradition. Now in its 14th year, the event drew around 100 guests on April 7, 2025, to the Faculty Club at the invitation of the CSU parliamentary group’s spokesperson for economic affairs.

IZB Managing Director Christian Gnam opened the event, emphasizing the role of the IZB as a beacon of biotechnological innovation in Bavaria and beyond. In her welcome address, host Kerstin Schreyer highlighted the need to establish stable framework conditions and foster entrepreneurial spirit—especially in economically challenging times. The reception was deliberately designed as a platform for building new networks, a concept that has already led to many successful collaborations at previous events.

Bavarian Minister of State Markus Blume delivered a keynote speech titled “High-Tech Agenda for Germany – What Matters Now.” He focused on key areas where Germany must invest strategically, including artificial intelligence, quantum computing, nuclear fusion, and biotechnology. His message was clear: only by consistently supporting key technologies and encouraging close collaboration between science, industry, and government can Germany maintain its innovative strength and global competitiveness.

During the networking session that followed, guests—including representatives from IZB start-ups, neighboring institutes, business leaders, and even actors—took the opportunity to exchange ideas across industries. The evening’s goal was clearly achieved: plenty of new contacts and fresh inspiration for everyone involved.