AGENDA IME 2024
Convention Hall of the Westin Grand Frankfurt
Konrad-Adenauer-Str. 7 60313
Frankfurt am Main Germany
08:00
Morning yoga workout
09:00
Registration and welcome networking breakfast
10:00
Opening of IME 2024
- Interactive opening of IME 2024
- Review of IME 2023
- Outlook for the next two days
Courtney Fingar, Presenter and Chair of IME
10:15
Welcome remarks
Bekim Xhafa, Founder of IME
10:30
Digitalization and innovation in the economic location of Saarland
The IME 2024 content program gets under way with a presentation on the transformative role of digitalization and innovation in Saarland’s economic landscape. Discover how cutting-edge technologies are driving growth, enhancing competitiveness and positioning the region as a dynamic business hub. The session will highlight key initiatives and the impact of digital advancements on the region’s economic development.
Speaker
Jürgen Barke, Minister of Economy, Innovation, Digital Affairs and Energy, Saarland
10:50
Resilient FDI: evolving strategies for companies and investment promoters
The global landscape for foreign direct investment has been challenging in recent years, forcing a strategic rethink for both investment promotion agencies and the companies they seek to engage. In this session, an expert consultant will highlight the trends shaping FDI at present, provide an outlook for the future, and reveal how IPAs and companies can create resilient strategies to help bolster a global FDI recovery.
Speaker
Jens Manke, Director Germany & Central Europe, OCO Global
11:20
Coffee break
11:50
Why should companies invest in Ukraine now?
- Ukraine as an investment destination and sectors of opportunity
- Experiences of investors in Ukraine
Speaker
Representative from UkraineInvest
12:10
Reasons to invest in Ras Al Khaimah: How this business region has gained in relevance
Investing in Ras Al Khaimah offers a unique combination of strategic advantages, supportive policies, and growth opportunities, making it an attractive destination for investors seeking to expand in the Middle East and beyond.
Speaker
Aminta Zettel, Strategic Country Manager, Europe and the United Kingdom, Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone
12:40
Lunch break and networking
14:00
Why invest in Mauritius?
Over the years, Mauritius has crafted a strong growth-oriented developmental path which has enabled the country to achieve one of the highest per capita income in Africa. With a stable political and economic environment and a strategic location, Mauritius is also emphasizing its commitment to sustainability and innovation, making it an attractive destination for sectors like technology, manufacturing, and green energy investments.
Speaker
Faraz Rojid, Director, Economic Development Board Mauritius
14:25
#InvestInSeychelles: Gateway for international trade and investment
Seychelles is growing in importance as a strategic hub for global trade and investment, thanks to its favorable business environment, tax incentives, and connectivity to key markets. This session will provide insights into how Seychelles’ policies and infrastructure support international companies looking to expand in Africa and beyond, positioning the country as a gateway for global business.
Speaker
Simone Hartog, Representative for Abacus (Seychelles) Ltd.
14:50
Investment oportunities and facilities for FDI: the Romania example
Regional and local Investment policies can serve as powerful catalysts for FDI, bringing benefits to local and national economies. Drawing on the experiences of Regional Development Agency Centru in Romania, this session will highlight how attactive investment policies can be leveraged for regional economic growth and development. It will include advice on differentiating business locations to stand out in a competitive market and the critical role of Investment policies in drawing skilled workers, ensuring that businesses not only attract capital but also the talent needed to thrive.
Speaker
Ovidia CABA, Director of Regional Policies and Programs Unit
15:10
Panel: FDI promotion in the age of AI
With artificial intelligence and advanced technologies reshaping cross-border investment as well as the work of investment promotion agencies, both challenges and opportunities have arisen integrating national promotional solutions in an increasingly interconnected world. Experts will discuss the potential of AI to streamline processes while overcoming obstacles in global collaboration.
Speakers
Philipp Lemmerz, Government & Public Services Consulting, PwC Dubai
Rakan AlGaraawi, Associate International Office Director – Germany, Saudi Arabia
Ministry of Investment
Moderator
Courtney Fingar, Presenter and Chair of IME
15:50
Coffee break
16:25
Insights from SMEs: Understanding corporate site selection criteria
A leading industry expert will delve into the key factors that small and medium-sized enterprises consider when selecting corporate sites, providing unique insights into their decision-making processes and how these criteria shape the location strategies of SMEs.
Speaker
Jürgen Raizner, Director, Steinbeis Enterprises
16:45
Keynote presentation: Driving FDI with blockchain, crypto and Web3
Discover how blockchain, crypto, and Web3 technologies are transforming the landscape of foreign direct investment in this keynote presentation. Explore the ways these innovations can streamline cross-border transactions, enhance transparency, and create new opportunities for driving sustainable investment. Learn from a top crypto expert how decentralized solutions are shaping the future of global trade and investment.
Speaker
Gordon H. Einstein, Esq., Founding Partner, CryptoLaw Partners
17:00
Summary of the first day
Courtney Fingar, Presenter and Chair of IME
17:00
End of the first day of conference
18:30
Frankfurt city tour
20:00
Drinks reception
08:00
Morning yoga workout
09:00
Welcome networking coffee
10:00
Welcome second conference day
- Summary of first day
- Outlook for second day of conference
Courtney Fingar, Presenter and Chair of IME
10:15
Panel: Building bridges between Europe and Africa
There are growing economic synergies between Europe and Africa as European investors become increasingly aware of the vast investment opportunities that Africa offers. This session will discuss how strategic partnerships can drive mutual growth, which sectors hold the most potential for cross-continental collaboration and how to foster long-term economic ties that benefit both regions.
Speakers
Christoph Kannengiesser, CEO, German-African Business Association
Faraz Rojid, Director, Economic Development Board Mauritius
Simone Hartog, Representative for Abacus (Seychelles) Ltd
Moderator
Courtney Fingar, Presenter and Chair of IME
11:00
Resilient economies: the global economic outlook
A leading economist and management consultant will provide an insightful overview of the global economy, exploring the current challenges and opportunities on the horizon. This session will delve into the key ingredients for building economic resilience and shine a light on the economic bright spots and growth areas for 2025 and beyond.
Speaker
Günther Fehlinger, Economist, Management and Development Consultant
11:20
Coffee break
11:50
Panel: Powering the future: new horizons in renewable energy
This session will delve into the future of energy, focusing on the latest advancements in renewable energy, including breakthroughs in hydrogen technology and the impact of artificial intelligence. Industry experts will discuss emerging trends and innovations shaping the renewable energy landscape, highlighting the most promising investment opportunities. Speakers will also explore how these developments are driving the transition to cleaner energy sources and the strategic investments that can fuel sustainable growth in this dynamic sector.
Speakers
Chigozie Nweke-Eze, Managing Director, Integrated Africa Power
Dennis Schulmeyer, CEO, LADE
Moderator
Courtney Fingar, Presenter and Chair of IME
12:30
Resilient free zones: future trends and current champions
The session will explore what makes a top-performing free trade zone, highlighting successful examples around the globe. It will delve into key global trends shaping the future of free zones and examine how they can adapt to support company expansion, even in challenging times. By examining best practices, the discussion will offer insights into how free zones can stay resilient and thrive amid shifting economic landscapes.
Speaker
Charles A. FitzGibbon, Vice President of Sales, Conway Data, Inc
13:00
Lunch break
14:00
Golden opportunities in Madeira
Investors in Madeira benefit from attractive incentives such as a reduced 5% corporate tax rate, competitive operational costs, stability and security and robust infrastructure. Residency programs like the Golden Visa further enhance its appeal for international businesses. This session will highlight “why Madeira is gold”.
Speaker
Elias Medeiros, Project Manager, Invest in Madeira
14:15
Modernization of Tax Systems Through Digital Transformation
Simplifying tax systems and processes is essential to creating a streamlined and efficient business environment, and digitalization can be harnessed to achieve these goals to the benefit of both businesses and governments. Using Kosovo as a case study, this presentation will demonstrate real-world applications of digital tools in improving tax administration and therefore ease of doing business.
Speaker
Rifat Hyseni, Director of Information Technology Department, Tax Administration of Kosovo
14:25
The investment case for Castilla-La Mancha
The Spanish region of Castilla-La Mancha is a major hub for innovation, particularly in sectors like hydrogen and fuel cell technology, aeronautics, and ICT. It also boasts competitive industrial land prices, a highly skilled workforce, and strong infrastructure, all of which create an ideal environment for businesses looking to expand. Learn more about the region’s compelling attributes for investment.
Speaker
Carmelo Corral, Investment Promotion Manager, IPEX
14:40
Panel: Resilience in turbulent times
In this dynamic session bringing together key themes of IME 2024, international experts offer their perspectives on building economic resilience amid global volatility. Beginning with a presentation on how Europe’s development agencies can foster resilience in their regions, the discussion will expand into the resilience of cities and how real estate fits into the equation. Learn how investment locations can adapt, innovate and thrive in uncertain environments.
Speakers
Theo Föllings, President, European Association of Development Agencies
Honoré Achille Simo, Executive Director, Value and Risk Advisory, JLL
Moderator
Courtney Fingar, Presenter and Chair of IME
15:15
Economic situation of Europe: how to cope with “Eurosclerosis“
This presentation explores the current economic challenges facing Europe, often referred to as “Eurosclerosis”—a period of slow growth, high unemployment, and economic stagnation. A leading economist will analyze the factors contributing to this sluggish performance and the implications for the rest of the world, and suggest remedies.
Speaker
Prof. Peter Platzer, Secretary General of EUREKA, Co-Founder of 3rd School of Austrian Macroeconomics
15:35
Summary of the conference and award ceremony (live voting on the best performer of IME 2024)
Bekim Xhafa, CEO, IME
Courtney Fingar, Presenter and Chair of IME
16:00
End of the conference