Global Entrepreneurship Week Basel 2025

Updated: Nov 13

Every November, more than 200 countries unite to celebrate the spirit of innovation during Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW) — a worldwide movement that empowers entrepreneurs, connects ecosystems, and inspires the next generation of change makers.

In Basel, this global celebration takes on a special flavour. GEW Basel 2025, running from 17–23 November, transforms the city into a vibrant hub of collaboration, learning, and inspiration. With over 30 curated events, the week brings together founders, innovators, students, creators, and supporters to share experiences, build connections, and explore what it truly means to be entrepreneurial in today’s world.

A Brief History

The Global Entrepreneurship Network (GEN) launched GEW in 2008 to celebrate and empower entrepreneurs worldwide. Since then, the initiative has grown into one of the largest global movements dedicated to fostering innovation and startup culture.

Basel joined the GEW family as a regional hub that reflects the city’s unique mix of scientific excellence, creativity, and business innovation. From life sciences and health tech to design, sustainability, and creative industries, Basel’s entrepreneurial ecosystem has become a model for collaboration — blending academia, corporations, and startups.

GEW Basel stands out as the only co-organized, city-wide entrepreneurship platform in Basel — a collective effort of ecosystem builders, event organizers, and community partners.

Each year, GEW Basel curates a dynamic week-long program that helps entrepreneurs grow their network, sharpen their skills, gain visibility, and find new opportunities. It’s a celebration of the people and projects shaping the future of the region — and beyond.

Highlights from the 2025 Program

This year’s GEW Basel promises something for everyone — from aspiring founders to seasoned business leaders. With over 30 sessions, workshops, and networking events, the program spans topics like innovation strategy, funding, AI, sustainability, leadership, and personal growth. Each event is hosted by a different organization — from local incubators and universities to co-working spaces and innovation hubs — creating a city-wide festival of ideas.

“From Idea to Impact: Building Startups That Matter”

This interactive session explores how to turn early-stage ideas into scalable ventures with real-world impact. Experts from Basel’s innovation community — including mentors, investors, and successful founders — will share practical advice on finding product-market fit, building resilient teams, and securing funding.

“Women Shaping the Future of Entrepreneurship”

A panel celebrating female founders and leaders who are breaking barriers and building inclusive ecosystems. Expect candid conversations about leadership, work-life balance, and the challenges of building companies in traditionally male-dominated sectors.

“AI and Creativity: Rethinking Innovation in the Digital Age”

Hosted in collaboration with Basel’s growing deep tech scene, this event brings together technologists and creatives to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming industries — and how startups can use these tools responsibly and effectively.

Basel Entrepreneurship Night 2025

After a week of inspiring discussions and connections, GEW Basel culminates in a grand finale: the Basel Entrepreneurship Night, themed “Rock Solid.”

When: 21 November 2025, 18:30 – 23:00

Where: Unser Bier, Gundeldingerstrasse 287, Basel

This closing night is where the community comes together to celebrate — no suits required. Expect a relaxed but memorable evening filled with networking, music, great food, and interactive moments that capture the energy of the week.

The program includes:

● Welcome drink & networking from 18:30

● Highlights of GEW Basel 2025

● Interactive experiences, Apéro Riche & drinks

● After-party that keeps the celebration going late into the night

Tickets include bites, drinks, coat check, and even a chance to win exciting prizes. The dress code? “Classic with an Edge” — stylish, confident, full of personality and rock solid.

Behind the Scenes: A Collaborative Effort

GEW Basel thrives because of its community-driven approach. The event is co-organized by a diverse group of partners who share one mission — to make entrepreneurship accessible, visible, and celebrated.

Event organizers gain a platform to share their expertise, connect with target audiences, and increase their visibility. Sponsors benefit from meaningful exposure to the region’s entrepreneurial community, while participants get a rare opportunity to meet peers, mentors, and collaborators who can help them move forward.

From the Organizer Launch Event at Walter Klybeck to the Basel Entrepreneurship Night, every moment of GEW Basel 2025 reflects the collaborative DNA of the region.

How to Get Involved

Whether you’re an entrepreneur, student, researcher, or simply curious, there are many ways to take part in GEW Basel 2025:

● Join the events: Explore the full week’s program and register for sessions that inspire you. See the full program Program | GEW Basel

●Get your ticket for the Basel Entrepreneurship Night: Buy tickets here Basel Entrepreneurship Night 2025 | GEW Basel

● Volunteer: A few volunteer spots are still available for those who want to contribute behind the scenes and gain hands-on experience.

●Spread the word: Follow GEW Basel on LinkedIn and share your favorite moments throughout the week using #GEWBasel2025.

Basel Belongs to Entrepreneurs

As GEW Basel 2025 kicks off, it’s clear that Basel’s entrepreneurial community is stronger than ever. This week is not just about celebrating business — it’s about celebrating creativity, resilience, and collaboration.

So, whether you’re building your first startup, mentoring others, or simply exploring what’s possible — this is your week. Because in Basel, entrepreneurship doesn’t belong to a few — it belongs to all of us.