From walls to bridges: news media reimagined
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REINVENTION
The business of news under pressure — and full of possibility
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COLLISION
Tech, trust, and transformation crashing into the newsroom
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UNIFICATION
Breaking silos, building bridges — editorial, product, tech, and commercial
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MOBILISATION
Turning strategy into action — talent, tools, and mindset for what’s next
Why Berlin?
A city that rises, again and again.
Few cities have reinvented themselves as many times as Berlin. Like a phoenix, it has risen from its own history — each time more open, creative, and determined to shape the future. Berlin has lived through the defining moments of the 20th century; from the fall of the Berlin Wall to the reunification of Germany, this city tells the story of Europe like no other.
Creative, bold, and always evolving.
Berlin is a cultural capital shaped by the spirit of the Roaring ‘20s, cabaret, and avant-garde art. Today, that same energy fuels its vibrant creative industries, galleries, music, and tech scene.
A hub for innovation and ideas.
Berlin is home to hundreds of startups, top universities, and some of Europe’s most exciting companies. It’s also where tradition meets forward thinking — from German engineering to digital media.
Diverse and open-minded.
With its multicultural neighbourhoods, buzzing food scene, and relaxed attitude, Berlin is a city where everyone can feel at home.
A media capital.
Major players like Axel Springer, Bertelsmann, Tagesspiegel, FUNKE, and dpa call Berlin home. The German news media stands for quality journalism, a strong ethical code, and constant reinvention.
The INMA World Congress 2026 in Berlin
In 2026, we’ll meet at the heart of a city that symbolises transformation, openness, and change — surrounded by landmarks that tell the story of Europe:
- Brandenburg Gate: From division to unity, the symbol of a reunified Germany.
- Berlin Wall: A powerful reminder of how walls fall and connections rebuild.
- Reichstag & Chancellor’s Office: The centre of democracy and leadership in Germany.
- Regierungsviertel: Where decisions are made — and history has been written.
- The Spree River: Flowing past many of Berlin’s most iconic sights, including Museum Island and the Berlin Cathedral.
Berlin isn’t just a backdrop. It’s part of the story we’ll tell together.
About the INMA World Congress
The World Congress of the International News Media Association (INMA) is the indispensable conference for leaders, strategists, catalysts, audience-builders, editors, and revenue executives from the world’s leading news media companies. Attend this conference and leave with news ideas, knowledge, and inspiration.
Exclusive access to Berlin’s top venues
Museum Island Colonnades & Neues Museum
We’ll kick off the Congress with a special evening on Museum Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site in the heart of Berlin. We’ll meet under the beautiful colonnades of the Neues Museum, home to the world-famous bust of Nefertiti. From there, we’ll enjoy views of the Berliner Dom, the Humboldt Forum (the rebuilt royal palace), and the Spree River flowing by. It’s a setting full of history, culture, and beauty — the perfect way to begin our Berlin experience together.
Conference venue: Axica
Set against the backdrop of the Brandenburg Gate and created with breathtaking architectural excellence, Axica embodies modernity, diversity, and change. The visionary construction by Frank Gehry, coupled with its strategic location near the Adlon, the American Embassy, and the Brandenburg Gate, ensures a unique Congress experience.
The Spree River
We’ll experience Berlin from a different perspective — aboard a boat gliding through the heart of the city as night falls. The Spree River passes through some of Berlin’s most iconic landmarks, from the Reichstag and Museum Island to the Berlin Cathedral and the modern government quarter — all beautifully illuminated under the evening sky. The evening tour offers a chance to take in the city’s contrasts: historic façades and bold architecture. With a drink in hand and Berlin’s skyline slowly passing by, it’s the perfect moment to unwind, connect with fellow participants, and let the spirit of the city unfold.
Tipi am Kanzleramt
Located in the government district close to the Chancellor’s Office (Kanzleramt), Tipi am Kanzleramt offers a unique blend of charm, history, and modernity, reflecting Berlin’s spirit of rebellion. The venue, known for its large tent setup, evokes the golden age of German cabaret in the 1920s and ‘30s while operating within a contemporary context, blending historical cultural practices with modern performances. It provides the perfect backdrop for celebrating excellence and achievement.
Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin
The legendary five-star luxury Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin, situated on Pariser Platz and Unter den Linden Boulevard, is surrounded by sights and attractions, exclusive boutiques, galleries, and theatres. Since its opening in 1907, the Adlon has witnessed Berlin’s dramatic history, emerging as a gathering place for the world’s political and cultural elite. Located just 50 meters from AXICA, the Adlon offers unmatched convenience as the main conference hotel.
Optional: Sightseeing & Tours of Berlin
For those staying on, we’ll offer a few optional tours and walks to discover more of Berlin — from historical sites to local spots that reflect the city’s creativity and contrasts.
- Hidden backyards in Berlin Mitte.
- Berlin off the beaten path.
- Highlights and hidden gems of Berlin.
- A taste of Berlin - Craft Beer Tour.
- The 10 tastings of Berlin.
- Off the beaten track in Berlin - Kreuzberg tour.
- Alternative Berlin.
- Berlin walking tour.
Who attends INMA?
The INMA World Congress attracts senior management from the leading news media companies in 50+ countries: CEOs, publishers, general managers, digital leaders, advertising executives, audience executives, marketing executives, editors, product professionals, and researchers.
10 Reasons to Be in Berlin
The perfect city for the next chapter in news media
- A city of reinvention: Berlin’s transformation — from division to global capital — makes it a living case study in resilience, strategy, and storytelling.
- Europe’s startup capital: With 4,500+ tech startups and a thriving creative economy, Berlin is a hub for media innovation, AI, and digital experimentation.
- A stronghold for press freedom and democracy: Home to leading journalism and rights organisations, Berlin stands for pluralism, transparency, and democratic values.
- A cross-border media scene: German powerhouses, international bureaus, and global creatives converge here — East meets West, and old meets new.
- A magnet for talent: Writers, designers, developers, podcasters, filmmakers — Berlin draws creators from around the world who shape the media of tomorrow.
- History at every corner: From the Berlin Wall to the Brandenburg Gate, the city is a walk-through archive of the 20th century — powerful, moving, unforgettable.
- A cultural powerhouse: With 175+ museums, 150+ theaters, and 3 opera houses, Berlin’s creative energy is unmatched — from high culture to underground art.
- Food for every taste: Michelin stars, global street food, legendary nightlife bites — Berlin’s food scene is bold, inventive, and endlessly diverse.
- Surprisingly affordable: For a major capital, Berlin offers incredible value — with great infrastructure, accessible venues, and wallet-friendly options.
- Effortlessly cool: Berlin doesn’t perform — it lives. Gritty, open-minded, and endlessly expressive, it’s where creativity feels real and freedom still means something.
Are You Wondering
Why INMA is different?
- Unparalleled ability to leverage global best practices and make them relevant
- Our familiarity with the trends, technologies, and starts that drive the media business
- Exclusive focus on the business of news: how to make journalism sustainable
- An agenda derived from the international INMA community (hand-picked by peers)
- One-on-one private Ask Me Anything sessions with INMA subject matter experts
- Our speakers and case studies are hand-picked by peer executives at media companies
- Connections with the right people at the right companies
- Front-row study tour access to the top German media companies