Connecting Futures 2025 | A Week of Impact, Inspiration & Community
On September 11, 2025, Vienna became the meeting point of innovation, community, and shared vision as we hosted Connecting Futures, a flagship networking event proudly co-curated by MenteeHub, alongside Bosnia & Herzegovina Futures Foundation, Business Women of Bosnia & Herzegovina and Making It in Austria. The event brought together an extraordinary mix of professionals, agencies, founders, investors, and community leaders from across Europe.
The response was overwhelming: tickets sold out well ahead of time, and the atmosphere throughout the day reflected just how much demand there is for spaces where innovation and community meet.
We were proud to welcome not only guests traveling from all parts of Austria but also international guests from Cologne, Munich, and beyond, alongside a truly diverse audience of internationals with roots in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, and Romania.
A program full of highlights
The agenda featured inspiring keynotes and panels with participants and contributors from leading organizations such as Austrian Economic Chambers, Vienna Business Agency, and a strong lineup of representatives and entrepreneurs from Bosnian and Austrian companies.
From exploring the challenges of founding abroad, to sharing stories of career growth and belonging every session sparked insights, connections, and plenty of inspiration for the future.
The company spotlights provided a dynamic showcase of organizations committed to supporting innovation and collaboration across industries and borders.
Fotocredits: Fatima SAYHI 2025
A Place to Exchange Ideas
From the first coffee to the final applause, it was clear that growth and community belong together. Listening to personal stories of building businesses abroad and reflecting on how to strengthen professional networks showed that Connecting Futures is more than sharing knowledge, it’s about building opportunities side by side.
Beyond the Stage
One of the unique highlights this year was the presence of fellows of the Bosnia and Herzegovina Futures Foundation, who visited Vienna as part of their fellowship journey. In the days before the conference, they visited local companies, universities, and had the chance to meet with the Ambassador of Bosnia & Herzegovina in Austria to discuss the role of diaspora in shaping the country’s future. Their presence at Connecting Futures brought an added layer of inspiration and created a powerful bridge between the next generation of leaders.
What has stayed with us most is the overwhelmingly positive feedback we received from participants and guests. Attendees spoke about the energy, the quality of discussions, and the sense of belonging that the event fostered. Many described it not just as a conference, but as a community moment they want to see grow and continue.
Looking Ahead
As the lights dimmed at the event venue, one thing was clear: Connecting Futures is here to stay. This year exceeded our expectations, and thanks to our incredible partners, speakers, and attendees, it turned out even better than we could have dreamed.
We are grateful to all who joined us: our speakers, facilitators, partners, and of course, our incredible audience. Together, you made this event what it was, a true celebration of innovation, integration, and impact.
Next year we are setting the bar even higher. Expect an even more international stage, more partners, and more opportunities to connect across borders. Stay tuned, the journey continues.
Fotocredits: Fatima SAYHI 2025
What People Said
“It was great to share thoughts on the Bosnia and Herzegovina-Austria Startup Bridge. The event truly highlighted the power of cross-border collaboration and mentorship.”
“Austria’s Bosnian and Herzegovinian diaspora has built something special here. People sharing real opportunities, practical advice, and opening doors for each other. We were impressed by the individual achievements and how supportive everyone was. This community understands how to create genuine value through connections.”
“The study visit to Vienna proved to be an inspiring and rewarding experience. Over the course of a week, we had the opportunity to visit several companies and engage in discussions with outstanding industry experts. These encounters provided valuable insights into how the industry operates in practice, offering perspectives that go far beyond the classroom. The visit was not only informative but also truly eye opening, leaving us motivated and energised. Im thankful to Bosnia and Herzegovina Futures Foundation, MenteeHub and our hosts for welcoming us and making this experience possible”
“Vienna gave me a chance to meet incredible people and build connections that I know will last. The open and welcoming atmosphere made every conversation meaningful and left me inspired to keep growing, both as an individual and as a professional.”
“I was nearly overwhelmed by the sheer amount of talent and brilliant minds gathered in one place.
The entire closing event was priceless in both experience and lessons learned.”