Dream Big, Build Local – The Story Behind Cognigy’s Founders

What does it take to turn an idea into a global AI company with a billion-dollar exit? Philipp Heltewig, Sascha Poggemann, and Benjamin Mayr did exactly that — and they built it right here in Düsseldorf.
In a joint fireside chat, the three Cognigy co-founders share their unfiltered story: how it all began, which decisions truly made the difference — and what the acquisition by NiCE, the largest AI acquisition in Europe, really meant to them as founders.
This isn’t about polished success stories — it’s about real insights: the early doubts, the pivotal turning points, and the kind of learnings you only get firsthand. With the CEO, COO, and CTO all at one table, you’ll hear three different perspectives on the same journey, from the first prototype to scaling internationally.
The evening is aimed especially at aspiring and early-stage founders who want to see that big growth doesn’t start with the perfect plan, but with the first step. Afterward, there’ll be plenty of room for your questions, personal conversations, and networking in a relaxed atmosphere.
Come by, get inspired, and take away concrete ideas for your own journey.