The SPOBIS is much more than just a series of presentations and discussions. In addition to our two-day stage programme, the SPOBIS also offers countless opportunities for networking, working, brainstorming ideas, developing careers – and naturally – also having fun.

On the eve of the official start to the SPOBIS, our managing directors invite selected guests to attend the Captain’s Dinner. This very special side event offers representatives from our top partners and other leading industry representatives optimal opportunities to exchange in a unique atmosphere. 

Participation is by personal invitation only.

To get in the mood for the two-day SPOBIS, partners, exhibitors, speakers and other guests are invited to our “Pre-Opener” on the eve of the official conference start.

Participation is possible through a limited VIP-Ticket or by personal invitation only.

One day prior to SPOBIS 2020, the annual Homecoming & Graduation Event takes place on SPOAC Campus in Düsseldorf. Faculty-Members, former participants from various EP- and GMP-Classes and current graduates gather together to networking among like-minded-people and to honour the graduates of the latest “General Management Program in Sports Business” (GMP) Class.

The SPOAC Homecoming & Graduation Event takes place in the lecture halls and the „Open Space“ on WHU-Campus in Düsseldorf. 

Participation is by personal invitation only.

Two full days of content – you might just need to let it all sink in first. Ideally, in relaxed surrounds during the traditional get-together. The major gathering of the sports business scene!

There will be plenty of time and opportunity to exchange with all of the other conference participants and to make new contacts over some tasty snacks, beer, wine and cocktails.

The Get-together is an absolute must for all those active in the sports business industry!

With the Elevator Pitch, we offer a valuable networking format at the SPOBIS. Upon prior registration, rights holders, agencies, start-ups and service providers can present their innovative concepts and ideas directly to the industry’s marketing and sponsorship decision-makers during a pitch lasting a maximum of 15 minutes.

In order to further reinforce the SPOBIS platform and networking concept, we will a SPOBIS Career Day as one of our many side events.

Interested participants will have the opportunity to meet with and introduce themselves to top employers from the sports business industry.

At the SPOBIS, a whole host of personnel decision-makers from companies and institutions that are well-known within the industry will be available for confidential discussions.

During the SPOBIS, we will host meetings on different topics with the aim of bringing like-minded people together. Ideally, a digital group will then be set up that group members can also use to exchange after the SPOBIS.

At the SPOBIS 2020, participants can once again get exclusive insights into a part of the General Management Program (GMP), which is taught at the SPOAC. 

At the end of the session, Prof. Dr. Schmidt will answer participants’ questions - in short: he’ll give the SPOAC “inside scoop”.

On your marks, get set – network! Use the networking rounds for surprise encounters and make up to 15 new contacts in just 30 minutes. Places are limited: first come, first served!

In the masterclasses, it is our partners who set the tone. Held in smaller rooms with a maximum capacity of 150, the masterclasses run for 60 minutes. They are organised individually and independently by the SPOBIS partners. From champagne receptions to customer meets and classic presentations – the options are endless.

In parallel to our own stage programme, all participants have the opportunity to immerse themselves in specific aspects of an additional variety of topics in exclusive surrounds.

Please note: The number of participants per masterclass may be limited - "first come, first served"!

Our Open Stage is another interactive format being offered at the SPOBIS. Their USP: participants are actively involved in the SPOBIS and are able to choose the content on their own.

In order to further reinforce the SPOBIS platform and networking concept and to establish the event as an annual meeting place for the entire industry, we are creating space for a whole variety of meetings by associations, clubs and commissions. The following meetings took place during the SPOBIS 2020: