New Spaces. Creative Thinking. Shared Futures.

The Next Frontiers symposium is a one-and-a-half-day trans-Atlantic symposium exploring how culture, science, technology, business, politics, and design will shape the future of our societies. Taking place in 2026, when the United States marks its 250th anniversary, it reflects on a defining national characteristic: the enduring drive to look forward.

Inspired by President John F. Kennedy’s “New Frontier” speech, the symposium looks not only on the nation’s rich historical foundation but also on its tradition of imagining what comes next. Kennedy challenged the nation to continue embracing the pioneer spirit of exploration, innovation, and social progress, emphasizing that the pursuit of new frontiers is essential to national and human advancement.

Throughout American history, leaders have returned to this language of renewal and possibility. President Ronald Reagan, in his farewell address, picked up the forward-looking theme, describing the United States as a nation strengthened and continually renewed by people “from every country and every corner of the world,” whose energy and aspirations carry the country toward ever new frontiers.

The “American Spirit” has influenced, not only the U.S. but also, Germany. From post-war reconstruction to the establishment of democratic institutions and strong trans-Atlantic ties, Germany’s modern political, economic, and cultural landscape has been profoundly shaped through collaboration with the United States. Today, both nations continue to navigate new frontiers - whether in science, technology, social innovation, or cultural exchange.

Building on this shared legacy, the symposium brings together leading experts from the U.S. and Germany to explore the next frontiers across multiple fields while emphasizing the historical bonds and shared aspirations that have connected our nations and driven global progress for the past 80 years.

Thank you to our program co-hosts, partners, and supporters: the American Council on Germany, the German Center for Research and Innovation NY (DWIH), the University of Cologne New York Office, Deutsches Haus at NYU, and the Goethe-Institut New York, as well as to Vitra for generously hosting us for our opening reception and keynote.

Location and time:
Vitra Showroom- 46 Bowery, 3rd Floor, New York, NY 10013 &
Spacious Studio 1, 873 Broadway, Second Floor, NY, NY 10003
May 7-8, 2026 / May 7: 6-8 pm, May 8: 8:15 am to 6 pm

For more information, visit: https://www.1014.nyc/event-series/next-frontiers-symposium