With the eco Interaction Day on 28 August 2025 in Cologne, the eco Association further strengthened a key platform for exchange, insights and networking within the Internet industry during its anniversary year. Under the motto “30 Years of eco Connecting – Digitally and In Person”, members, partners and other stakeholders in the digital economy came together to discuss current developments and to experience the eco Association’s role as a platform and catalyst for innovation.

The event underscored the importance of eco as a network organisation that not only develops positions but also actively creates spaces for dialogue, cooperation and innovation. Accordingly, the focus was on personal exchange – complemented by a curated specialist programme with clear thematic priorities.

Strategic Topics in Focus: AI and Digital Infrastructures

In terms of content, Interaction Day focused on two key future areas of the Internet industry: artificial intelligence and future connectivity. Both topics form essential foundations for competitiveness, digital sovereignty and sustainable growth in Germany and Europe.

The keynote address by Karl-Heinz Land (Neuland.ai) provided impetus regarding Germany’s role in the global AI competition and highlighted prospects for successful positioning within the international innovation landscape. In the subsequent panel discussion, representatives from industry and research discussed practical applications of AI, as well as challenges relating to implementation, regulation and responsible use.

The second thematic focus was on the digital infrastructure of the future. The discussion centred on technological developments such as new network architectures, the IoT, and the growing demands for high-performance and sustainable data centre and network structures. The discussion highlighted the central role of digital infrastructure as the foundation of digital transformation – particularly for data-intensive applications such as AI, the cloud and cybersecurity.

A Platform for Innovation and Association Work

In addition to the thematic highlights, the eco Interaction Day offered comprehensive insights into the eco Association’s practical work. Among other things, innovation projects such as FACIS – aimed at strengthening sovereign cloud and edge ecosystems – and initiatives for the further development of digital infrastructures were presented.

Another item on the agenda was an exclusive preview of the study “The Internet industry in Germany 2025–2030 – Future Prospects”, developed in collaboration with Arthur D. Little. The results presented underscored the sector’s role as a key driver of growth and innovation.

Formats such as the “Speakers’ Corner” also gave new member companies the opportunity to position themselves within the network and actively contribute to the discussion. This highlights the continuous expansion and diversity of content within the eco network.

Exchange, Networking and Anniversary Outlook

Interaction Day was also a key event as part of eco’s 30th anniversary celebrations. Through interactive formats such as an anniversary quiz and discussions with pioneers of the Internet industry, the sector’s development was reflected upon and placed in a forward-looking context.

Formats such as business speed dating and open networking sessions specifically encouraged the establishment of new collaborations and the deepening of existing contacts. Personal dialogue once again proved to be a key added value of the event.

The event concluded with a joint summer party featuring a BBQ, which continued the informal exchange in a relaxed atmosphere.