Digital Entrepreneurship Ecosystem Index Launch – Danube Region

Join the launch of the Digital Entrepreneurship Ecosystem (DEE) Index Report for the Danube Region and discover new data-driven insights.

The Vienna Institute for Global Studies (VIGS), in partnership with weXelerate, proudly invites you to the launch of the first Digital Entrepreneurship Ecosystem Index (DEE Index) Report, covering the Danube Region. This milestone event will bring together policymakers, entrepreneurs, and researchers to explore the future of the digital entrepreneurship ecosystem in the Danube Region.

About the DEE Index

The Digital Entrepreneurship Ecosystem Index (DEE Index) assesses and compares the development of digital entrepreneurship ecosystems across countries. The DEE Index sheds light on digital divides, regional differences, and pathways to foster innovation-driven growth.

In this report, we highlight both the strengths and weaknesses across the Danube Region, enabling policymakers, entrepreneurs, and researchers to design tailored strategies.

📑 Download the DEE Index Report now: DEE Index Download – VIGS institute

What to expect from the event:

• Exclusive presentation: Discover the Digital Entrepreneurship Ecosystem Digital Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Index (DEE) Index and its first results for the Danube Region.
• Regional insights: Learn how the regional countries differ in digital readiness, entrepreneurship, and innovation potential.
• Expert dialogue: Keynotes and panel discussions with leading voices of the region.
• Forward-looking perspective: Explore how the DEE Index can support evidence-based policy-making, foster innovation, and strengthen regional cooperation.
• Networking opportunities: Connect with decision-makers, scholars, and ecosystem builders from across the Danube Region and beyond.

Featured speakers:

• Prof. Dr. Zoltan Acs, Director, VIGS Institute
• Prof. Dr. László Szerb, Head of Research, VIGS Institute
• Awi Lifshitz, CEO, weXelerate
• Prof. Dr. László Palkovics, Government Commissioner for Artificial Intelligence
• Dr. Robert Lichtner, Head, Danube Strategy Point, EU Strategy for the Danube Region (EUSDR)
• Elma Saric, Senior Strategic Partnerships and Ecosystems Analyst, Raiffeisen Bank International AG

Discussion Moderator:

• Jakob Steinschaden – Co-founder of Trending Topics; Tech and economy journalist

Who should attend?

• Policymakers & government officials;
• Entrepreneurs & digital ecosystem leaders;
• Researchers & academics;
• Representatives of chambers, associations, and international organizations;
• Anyone interested in the digital future of the Danube Region.

Event schedule

📍 Location: WeXelerate, Praterstraße 1, 1020 Vienna, Space 28.

🕔 Time: October 28, 2025 | 16.30 – 20.00

16:30-17:00 Registration

17:00-17:05 VIGS Welcome

Naomi Besedes, Deputy Director, VIGS Institute

17:05-17:10 weXelerate Welcome

Awi Lifshitz, CEO, weXelerate

17:10-17:30 DEE Index Danube Region Report presentation

Prof. Dr. László Szerb, Head of Research, VIGS Institute

17:30-18:30 Roundtable discussion

Prof. Dr. László Palkovics, Government Commissioner for Artificial Intelligence (Hungary)

Dr. Robert Lichtner, Head, Danube Strategy Point, EU Strategy for the Danube Region (EUSDR)

Prof. Dr. Zoltán Ács, Director, VIGS Institute

Elma Saric, Senior Strategic Partnerships and Ecosystems Analyst, Raiffeisen Bank International AG

Moderator: Jakob Steinschaden, Co-founder of Trending Topics; Tech and economy journalist

18:30-19:00 Q&A

19:00-20:00 Networking

⏯️ Are you interested in the region but not in Vienna?
Tune in online and follow the discussion! More details at the ticket options.

About the Organizer

The Vienna Institute for Global Studies (VIGS) is a cutting-edge research center at Modul University Vienna, founded by Professor Dr. Zoltán Ács. Inspired by institutions such as the Santa Fe Institute and the RAND Corporation, VIGS combines economic and complexity science approaches to understand and address the world’s most pressing global challenges.

🔗 Registration is free, but spots are limited. Reserve your seat today and join us for this important VIGS milestone!