With Center Stage, Hannover Messe 2026 positions itself as the central platform for dialogue on the future of industrial production. High-level representatives from business, politics, science, and society will gather here to discuss current challenges, technological developments, and strategic directions. In doing so, Hannover Messe reinforces its role as an international catalyst for innovation, transformation, and industrial value creation.
Hannover Messe brings international decision-makers together
With around 80 international speakers, Center Stage offers a packed conference program. The focus is on practical insights, strategic perspectives, and concrete solutions for industry. Complementary formats such as Bar Talks promote direct exchange among participants.
AI as a Key Theme of Hannover Messe
The theme “AI in Industry” takes center stage at the opening of Hannover Messe. Discussions will center on Europe’s role in the global competition for data spaces, computing power, and industrial AI applications. Representatives from politics, industry, and research will explore how sovereign infrastructures and interoperable systems lay the foundation for future value creation. At the same time, concrete application examples from industrial practice will be presented.
Monday, April 20, 2026, 12:00 PM to 5:30 PM
Key speakers include, among others:
- Friedrich Merz, Federal Chancellor
- Roland Busch, Siemens
- Christian Klein, SAP
Focus on the Transformation of the Automotive Industry
Another key focus of the Hannover Messe is the transformation of the automotive industry. Rising demands for sustainability, digitalization, and resilience are fundamentally changing business models and value chains. Discussions will cover technological developments, regulatory frameworks, and the new roles of manufacturers and suppliers in an increasingly software-driven industry.
Tuesday, April 21, 2026, 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Key insights will be provided by, among others:
- Adrian Bron, Bain & Company
- Michael Schretler, Bain & Company
- Dr. Timo Kistner, Nvidia
Security and Industry Grow Closer Together
Hannover Messe also addresses the growing importance of security policy issues. As part of “Security, Defense & Industrial Transformation,” the focus is on the connection between industrial performance and security-related applications. Topics include resilient supply chains, European procurement strategies, and the role of dual-use technologies.
Tuesday, April 21, 2026, 2:00 PM to 5:30 PM
Speakers include:
- Christian Freuding, Bundeswehr
- Armin Papperger, Rheinmetall
- Marc Wietfeld, Arx Robotics
Energy as a Focus Topic at Hannover Messe
With the “Next-Gen Energy” thematic block, Hannover Messe is placing the energy transition at the center of attention. Topics to be discussed include AI-supported energy systems, storage technologies, and new approaches to controlling complex grids. The focus is on the integration of energy and industrial systems as well as on global perspectives for designing sustainable infrastructures.
Wednesday, April 22, 2026, 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Key speakers include:
- Alexander Seitz, Volkswagen
- Ulrich Leidecker, Phoenix Contact
- Heike Riel, IBM Research
Robotics and automation are driving change
Humanoid robotics and automation technologies are another key focus of the Hannover Messe. Experts will demonstrate the potential these technologies offer for flexible and safe production environments. In addition to technical developments, economic and regulatory challenges relevant to broad industrial adoption will also be discussed.
Wednesday, April 22, 2026, 2:00 PM to 5:30 PM
Speakers include:
- Prof. Dr. Karsten Lemmer, DLR
- Prof. Dr. Alin Albu-Schäffer, DLR
- Rev. Lebaredian, Nvidia
Practical examples of AI and automation demonstrate implementation in industry
With formats such as “AI & Automation Best Practices,” Hannover Messe presents concrete applications from industrial practice. Companies provide insights into the use of AI, automation, and data-driven processes. This highlights how technological innovations are integrated into real production environments and how they contribute to increased efficiency.
Thursday, April 23, 2026, 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Speakers include, among others:
- Markus Hacker, Nvidia
- Robin Tuluie, Physicsx
- Ulrich Homann, Microsoft
Startups and talent as drivers of innovation
Hannover Messe also addresses the role of startups and skilled workers in industrial transformation. Young companies showcase new business models and technologies, while experts discuss the skills that will be needed in the future. Formats such as “Tech meets Talent” connect technological developments with issues related to the world of work and qualifications.
Thursday, April 23, 2026, 2:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Key speakers include:
- Carsten Maschmeyer, Maschmeyer Group
- Verena Pausder, Startup Association
- Frank Notz, Festo
Hannover Messe shows: Technologies are changing work and skills
Finally, the focus is on future technologies and their impact on the world of work and qualifications. “Tech meets Talent” highlights new technologies that are transforming work, culture, and skills. These include artificial intelligence, quantum research, and space tech, as well as new work models.
Friday, April 24, 2026, 10:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Speakers include:
- Jacob Beautemps, Breaking Lab
- Rabea Rogge, astronaut
- Philipp Lahm, World Cup-winning captain & Schneekoppe
