Network Conference of the "Working World 4.0" Thematic Platform
The main annual gathering for everyone who actively shapes the world of work
As the central annual gathering of the “Working World 4.0” thematic platform, the network conference brings together the most important stakeholders in the world of work in person: from business, academia, and politics.
The focus is on current topics shaping the future, practical insights, interactive exhibits, and plenty of opportunities for stimulating discussions. Among the highlights of the program is a visit by the Bavarian State Minister for Family, Labor, and Social Affairs
What is the Network Conference?
The Network Conference is the flagship annual event of the “Working World 4.0” thematic platform—a project of Bayern Innovativ commissioned by the Bavarian State Ministry of Family, Labor, and Social Affairs.
It brings current issues surrounding the world of work and corporate culture to the forefront—and translates major future topics into concrete ideas for practical application. Small and medium-sized enterprises, in particular, gain insights here on how to better navigate developments such as digitalization, AI, sustainability, and demographic change.
The focus is on knowledge sharing, exchange, networking, and inspiration: featuring keynotes, panels, short presentations, case studies, discussions, and exhibits that bring these developments to life.
Highlights from the 2025 Networking Conference at the Gaszählerwerkstatt in Munich
A meeting place for everyone who wants to actively shape the world of work
The networking conference is aimed at people who want to do more than just observe changes in the world of work—they want to understand and shape them.
This includes, in particular, companies, decision-makers, skilled workers, HR managers, academics and researchers, works councils, labor unions, chambers of commerce and trade associations, government and political officials, economic development agencies, and other key influencers.
Orientation
You’ll learn about the trends currently shaping the world of work—and what that means for businesses.
Perspectives
You’ll gain insight into different perspectives from the worlds of business, academia, politics, and professional practice.
Exchange
You’ll meet people who are grappling with similar questions: How do we transform work? What skills do we need? And how do we shape this change in a meaningful way?
The 8th Network Conference is currently being planned.
NextWork Bavaria – Competitiveness Through Innovative Work Environments
October 29, 2026
Munich
A Look Back
Each year, the network conference addresses a different topic related to the future. This provides an ongoing perspective on the changing world of work.
7th Network Conference 2025
Chatbots, Humanoid Robots, and More—Human-Machine Interaction Today and in the Future
6th Network Conference 2024
Future Skills – How We’ll Work in 2035!
5th Network Conference 2023
Who Will Shape the Workplace of Tomorrow? Understanding Artificial Intelligence and Using It Responsibly!
4th Network Conference 2022
Thinking Through and Successfully Implementing Digitalization, Sustainability, and Demographics Together
3rd Network Conference 2021
Workplace 4.0 in the Age of COVID-19: What Remains? What’s Possible? What’s Next?
2nd Network Conference 2020
Workplace 4.0 – Lessons Learned from the Pandemic
1st Network Conference 2019
Inspiration, Exchange, and Practical Insights for the Changing World of Work
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