When baby boomers retire, young talent becomes scarce, and AI transforms job profiles, businesses need to adopt new approaches to talent retention. How can existing talent be better utilised? What contributions can new technologies make? And how can businesses ensure they have the right people tomorrow? Around 200 female entrepreneurs and women in leadership positions will discuss this at the 11th German Chamber of Commerce and Industry Networking Day for Business Women IHK on 1 and 2 October in Hannover.

At the invitation of the German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DIHK) and the hosting IHK Hannover, the event will address answers to demographic change, skills shortages, and technological advancements under the motto “Talents, Technologies, Transformation – Female Entrepreneurs Shaping Tomorrow’s World of Work.”

“The world of work is currently changing in many ways simultaneously. It is, therefore, all the more important to better utilise existing potential and be open to new paths,” says Kirsten Schoder-Steinmüller, DIHK Vice President and patron of Business Women IHK. “Women entrepreneurs have long been shaping this transformation – driving innovation, adopting new technologies, and taking on responsibility. We need this strength to keep our businesses competitive in the future.”

A crucial factor is securing young talent. Karoline Eggert, Vice President of IHK Hannover, emphasises: “Talent retention starts long before job vacancies arise. Good career guidance, strong dual education systems, and targeted promotion of young talent are essential. We not only need to recruit young talent but also prepare them for tomorrow’s world of work.”

At the same time, it is essential to unlock potential that has so far often remained untapped. Alexandra Gerhardy, Vice President of IHK Hannover, states: “Businesses cannot afford to overlook talent. This includes encouraging more women to take on entrepreneurial responsibilities and leadership roles. Especially in times of skills shortages, this is not only a question of equal opportunity but also an economic necessity.”

The diverse range of approaches will be highlighted at the forum on 2 October. Topics will include AI and new forms of collaboration, balancing family and career, talent retention, professional transitions, and the integration of international skilled workers.

Background

The Business Women IHK network brings together around 300 female entrepreneurs and women in leadership positions from IHK volunteer bodies across Germany. The network advocates for more women in entrepreneurial leadership roles and equal participation in the economy. Through the action plan “Become an Entrepreneur!”, it also seeks to inspire more girls and women to take up entrepreneurship and self-employment. The German Chamber of Commerce and Industry Networking Day serves as a platform for a nationwide exchange and will take place for the 11th time in 2026.