HIMMA at Bits & Pretzels 2026: Inspiration and New Connections

7,500 attendees, numerous startups, investors, and a packed schedule of presentations, exhibitions, and networking opportunities: For the Funkenwerk incubator team HIMMA, Bits & Pretzels 2026 in Munich was a special experience.

Thanks to HOCHSPRUNG and its partner Gründerland Bayern, the Institute for Entrepreneurship and Innovation—Funkenwerk—was once again able to provide free tickets to the event for selected startup teams from Augsburg University of Applied Sciences this year. HIMMA was among the participating teams.

Under this year’s theme, “Human after all,” one thing stood out above all else for the two team members, Philipp and Isaac: connecting with people from a wide variety of sectors within the startup ecosystem.

Particularly inspiring were the conversations with founders, companies, and institutions from the innovation sector. At the Startup Exhibition, the two were able to discover numerous new ideas and business models. In addition, the team took the opportunity to engage with the German Energy Agency (dena), participated in a tour organized by Gründerland Bayern, and made further valuable connections.

The initial discussions are already bearing fruit: HIMMA is continuing to engage with several new contacts and has already received its first invitation to the Startup Area at Expo 2027 in Munich.

“For us, participating has already been worthwhile. In particular, the many conversations and diverse perspectives have given us new ideas for HIMMA’s further development. Next year, we’d like to be there not just as guests, but as exhibitors, if possible.”

– Philipp and Isaac, HIMMA

In addition to the many positive impressions, the team was also struck by the strong presence of companies and technologies from the defense sector. This observation underscored once again how closely current societal developments are linked to innovation and entrepreneurship—and which topics are currently driving the startup scene.

Nevertheless, the two founders’ conclusion is clear: Bits & Pretzels 2026 was a valuable experience for HIMMA. In particular, the community’s openness, the multitude of conversations, and the opportunity to gain new perspectives will remain a lasting memory for the team.

Would you like to turn an idea into a project, startup, or business? Funkenwerk supports students, staff, and alumni of Augsburg University of Applied Sciences every step of the way—from the initial spark of an idea to launching a business.

Schedule a startup consultation now or learn more about Funkenwerk’s incubator program.