Experience & Connect

Artificial intelligence (AI) is widely regarded as one of the key topics shaping the future of business, science, and society. The i2b meet-up "Artificial Intelligence in SMEs", held at DFKI Bremen on 24 June 2026, explored the opportunities and challenges AI presents, particularly for small and medium-sized manufacturing enterprises (SMEs).

Using practical case studies, speakers demonstrated how companies can successfully implement AI-driven processes, the prerequisites for successful adoption, and the lessons learned from real-world applications. The event was moderated by Julia Meichsner from Radio Bremen. Following a welcome address by Maike Freese, State Councillor at the Senator for Economic Affairs, Ports and Transformation, Renate Heitmann, Deputy Chair of the University of Bremen Alumni Association, delivered welcoming remarks on behalf of the association.

The University of Bremen Alumni Association supported the event as an event cooperation partner alongside Bremen Invest (WFB). "We are delighted to have been part of this inspiring exchange between business, academia, and industry practitioners," said Heitmann.

Artificial intelligence will continue to be a key focus in the months ahead. In summer 2026, Bremen will become an international hub for AI research by hosting the International Joint Conference on Artificial Intelligence together with the European Conference on Artificial Intelligence (IJCAI–ECAI 2026). Alongside the conference, the Summer of AI initiative will offer a diverse programme spanning science, technology, business, education, and culture. The University of Bremen Alumni Association will continue to engage with this important topic through future events and initiatives.

On 13 June, the University of Bremen opened its doors under the motto "Opening Worlds – Sharing Knowledge", inviting visitors to experience the full diversity of research, teaching, and campus life. The programme featured lectures, laboratory tours, guided campus visits, information stands, a children's campus, open-air concerts, and numerous interactive activities.

The University of Bremen Alumni Association was delighted to be part of the event. In addition to supporting the Open Campus as a funding partner, we also celebrated our 20th anniversary at our exhibition stand. Together with alumni, members, friends, and visitors, we enjoyed inspiring conversations and memorable encounters that brought together different generations and academic disciplines.

The event once again highlighted what makes our alumni network so special: a strong sense of connection, meaningful exchange, and a shared commitment to the University of Bremen and its future. These values are rooted in our support for academic freedom, democracy, and openness.

Our stand welcomed many distinguished guests, including our founding member Dr Katerina Vatsella, Derk Schönfeld, Managing Director of the Alumni Association, Professor Jutta Günther, President of the University of Bremen, Dr Mandy Böhnke, Vice President, Professor Michal Kucera, Vice President, Dr Agnes-Dorothee Greiner from Bremer Heimstiftung, and many other alumni and friends.

We are proud to have been part of this special day and look forward to continuing to support and strengthen the University of Bremen through our growing alumni network for many years to come.

The Alumni Association of the University of Bremen visited the Wilhelm Wagenfeld House. Director Dr. Julia Bulk guided around 20 participants through the exhibition “Focke Meets Wagenfeld”, offering expert insights. The focus was on everyday design and its significance for culture, heritage, and the way we see the world. The evening sparked inspiring conversations in a place that embodies design and zeitgeist in Bremen. Our sincere thanks go to Dr. Julia Bulk, the team of the Wilhelm Wagenfeld House, and Dr. Katerina Vatsella.