Artificial Intelligence is the defining technology of our time. In order to use it as a competitive advantage, companies must understand its dynamics and current developments. However, the discourse around AI often remains abstract and technical, making it difficult for many businesses to identify and implement concrete use cases.
We want to change that. On 20 May 2025, we are once again pleased to welcome two internationally renowned AI experts from California to Düsseldorf: Thomas Neubert, founder of Transatlantic AI eXchange and AI influencer, and Nestor Maslej, editor-in-chief of the AI Index Report and Research Manager at the Stanford Institute for Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence (HAI).
They will present the new AI Index Report 2025, which is considered the world’s leading source on AI trends and published yearly in April. In their compact keynote, they will decode key global developments and provide a deep understanding of the current state and future of AI technology.
Following the presentation, they will join other high-profile guests for a moderated panel discussion to explore the significance of these trends for North Rhine-Westphalia and the Düsseldorf region – with perspectives from research, business, and the startup ecosystem.
Panel participants and their perspectives:
- Nestor Maslej (Stanford HAI) and Thomas Neubert (Transatlantic AI eXchange) will provide insights into global AI developments and transatlantic dynamics.
- Dr. Christian Temath, Managing Director of KI.NRW, will offer insights into research, funding, and the application of AI in NRW, with a particular focus on application of AI within SMEs.
- Sebastian Glock, Director of Product Marketing at Cognigy, will share the perspective of a practice-oriented AI company based in Düsseldorf on the implementation of AI technologies in everyday business.
- Ella Heising, Managing Director of TechHub.K67, will contribute the view of the local innovation and startup ecosystem to the discussion.
The event will be held in English.
After the panel, we invite you to a get-together with snacks and drinks – offering the opportunity to exchange ideas with the speakers and other business representatives.
Take this opportunity to gain insights into the latest global developments and practical best practices – and to make them applicable to your business.
About the AI Index Report
The AI Index Report is published annually in April by the Stanford Institute for Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence (HAI) and analyzes the latest developments in artificial intelligence. The report offers data-based insights into:
- Technological advancements and their relevance for companies
- Ethical questions and regulatory frameworks
- Economic impacts, including the role of AI for productivity and innovation
These sound analyses help companies to strategically prepare for the future of AI and to strengthen their competitiveness.
About the Participants
Thomas Neubert is the founder of Transatlantic AI eXchange, AI influencer, and investor based in San José, California. Over the course of his 33-year career in Silicon Valley – and originally from North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) – Thomas successfully established two U.S. companies with locations in NRW (specifically in Aachen and Bonn) and also established the German headquarters of a Silicon Valley company in Düsseldorf.
Nestor Maslej is Research Manager at the Stanford Institute for Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence (HAI)* in Palo Alto, California, and leads the AI Index Report. His work on artificial intelligence – particularly the AI Index – has been cited in newspapers worldwide. He regularly speaks on developments in AI, has briefed senior U.S. policymakers, testified before the Canadian and Italian parliaments, and presented to CEOs across a wide range of industries.
*Disclaimer: The AI Index part of this talk is published by Stanford HAI. However, the opinions expressed during the presentation are solely Nestor’s and do not reflect those of Stanford University or Stanford HAI. This session aligns with Nestor’s personal mission to bring AI thought leadership to a wide range of global entities and to support their technological transformations.
Dr. Christian Temath is Managing Director of the KI.NRW competence platform (i.e., the central competence platform for (applied) AI in NRW) and works with his team at Fraunhofer IAIS in Sankt Augustin to establish the brand “AI made in NRW” and to strengthen Germany’s technological sovereignty. A PhD in business informatics, he has many years of experience in technology consulting as well as in the practical application of AI technologies at an international hotel platform. His team of AI managers combines expertise in artificial intelligence, digitalization, networking, and consulting with the aim of supporting companies, SMEs, and startups in implementing AI.
Sebastian Glock is Director of Product Marketing and Technology Evangelist at Cognigy, a leading provider of contact center AI software based in Düsseldorf. In this role, he works at the intersection of AI development, software engineering, and practical solutions for improved customer service. Before joining Cognigy, Sebastian held various positions at e-Spirit AG, including Vice President of Product Marketing. He has advised companies in Europe and the U.S. on digital projects and has implemented numerous solutions. As an experienced speaker, he regularly shares his insights at international conferences and events.
Ella Heising has been part of TechHub.K67 in Düsseldorf since its founding and played a key role in building the community space for startups and companies. Since August 2022, she has served as Managing Director of this innovation hub, which promotes networking between startups and established businesses to jointly create an ideal environment for growth and innovation. After studying political science and economics in Heidelberg and Wrocław, Ella gained initial experience at the Heidelberg Technology Park. She then worked at the State Chancellery of North Rhine-Westphalia before taking on her current role at TechHub.K67. Ella also regularly serves as a moderator at events, focusing on innovation, networking, and connecting established businesses with young companies.
