THURSDAY GATHERING #36 Venturing Across Asia
Join us every week for Thursday Gathering, a vibrant after-work event series designed to spark innovation, connection, and collaboration across Berlin’s diverse entrepreneurial and creative communities.
This week, we turn our attention eastward — exploring how Asia’s fast-evolving startup ecosystems are shaping the global innovation landscape. From cross-border collaboration and tech diplomacy to emerging founders and new market opportunities, this edition connects Berlin with the energy, ambition, and talent driving change across the Asian continent.
✨ What to Expect
• Inspiring conversations and curated programming spotlighting Asia–Europe innovation links
• A welcoming, drop-in environment — come for 30 minutes or stay for the night
• A mix of local and international changemakers expanding global frontiers
🇱🇰 SRI LANKA TECH CONNECT
In-person session | Panel
🕠 November 27, 2025 | 5:30 PM – 6:45 PM
Celebrate the rise of Sri Lanka’s innovation ecosystem and its growing connections with Europe at Sri Lanka Tech Connect, part of the AsiaBerlin Summit satellite events.
Explore how collaboration between Sri Lanka and Europe is unlocking South Asia’s next frontier of innovation — spanning MedTech, AgriTech, E-Mobility, FinTech, AI, the Creative Economy, and TravelTech. Experience live demos from high-potential startups, meet founders driving impact, and connect with leaders shaping the island’s tech future.
Organized by: ICT Agency of Sri Lanka in partnership with Venture Café Berlin.
Program Highlights:
17:30 – Welcome & Opening Remarks – Ewa Emilia Geresz, Venture Café Berlin
17:40 – Address by H.E. Varuni Muthukumarana, Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Germany
17:50 – Remarks by Dr. Rainer Seider, Berlin Senate & President, AsiaBerlin Forum
18:00 – Presentation – Sachindra Samararatne, ICT Agency of Sri Lanka
18:10 – Panel Discussion: “Unlocking the Next Frontier in Innovation in South Asia”
18:45 – Networking with Sri Lanka’s 13 visiting startups & scale-ups @ demo tables
Featuring:
H.E. Varuni Muthukumarana, Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Germany
Dr. Rainer Seider, President, Asia Berlin Forum e.V.
Sachindra Samararatne, Associate Chief Digital Economy Officer – ICT Agency of Sri Lanka
Ewa Geresz, Interim Director – Venture Café Berlin
Marten Rauschenberg, CEO – AsiaBerlin Forum
Carl R. Härtlein, Managing Partner – Saint Clair Advisory & Capital
Manori Unambuwe, CEO – Accentae
🌏 Other Breakout Sessions
1. STARTUP INCUBATOR BERLIN UX-TESTING
Join the popular UX-Testing hosted by Startup Incubator Berlin!
Get a first look at products soon to launch on the market and connect with innovators shaping Berlin’s startup scene. Test new prototypes, share your feedback, and help founders refine their user experience.
Whether you’re a designer, early adopter, or just curious about what’s next — this session offers a hands-on opportunity to learn, connect, and contribute in an inspiring, collaborative atmosphere.
2. MENTOR HOURS: FINANCIAL FREE ME – MASTER YOUR MONEY. DESIGN YOUR FUTURE.
Who it’s for:
Pre-seed founders, solopreneurs, and early-stage startup leaders in Berlin.
Why stop by:
• Unsure how to balance personal savings and startup cash flow?
• Confused about investments, taxes, or funding decisions?
• Looking for a simple, actionable financial plan tailored to your startup life?
What’s in it for you:
• 15–20 min 1:1 Q&A with certified finance coaches
• Practical steps to manage savings, investments, and retirement goals
• Tailored advice for freelancers and founders juggling personal and business finances
• Tips to align your income, goals, and lifestyle for true independence
Meet the coaches:
Yvonne & Verena, founders of FrauFUTURE, bring 28 years of combined experience in finance and career coaching — helping professionals and entrepreneurs design a future beyond the 9–5. ✨
Stop by, grab a snack, and leave with more clarity (and confidence) about your financial future.
🎟️ Free entry | Open to all
Full agenda available on venturecafeberlin.org
This event is an official Satellite Event of the Asia Berlin Summit 2025.
Supported by