DNNL unConference
5th edition
I HAVE A DREAM 2.0
Saturday 24th JANUARY, 2026 | Rabobank AMSTERDAM | 14.00 - 19.00 hours
The DNNL unConference is a dynamic gathering designed to nurture an inclusive, diverse, and innovative Dutch entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Our event provides a unique platform for open dialogue, meaningful networking, and impactful collaboration. We bring together stakeholders from diverse sectors—policy, investment, corporate, entrepreneurship, and academia—to drive transformative ideas and partnerships that shape the future. We believe great results come from clear steps, open collaboration, and a shared sense of purpose.
This year’s unConference is framed around 𝑰 𝑯𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒂 𝑫𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒎 2.0, marking 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐧 𝐋𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐉𝐫. Day 2026. We explore how his legacy translates into contemporary action on inclusive entrepreneurship, technology, economic justice and access to opportunity.
2026 UnConference PROGRAM
DNNL unConferences are unique spaces to spark collaboration, connection and problem solving.. Previous events have brought together leaders from business, policy, academia, and culture, featuring contributions from organizations like Google, Accenture, Microsoft, and UN Global Compact. These powerful conversations have led to new cross-sector partnerships, follow-up programs, and concrete input into policy and investment strategies that are shaping the New Economy.
See You There
A look back at the FutureShapers unConference in Rotterdam (2025)
From bold ideas to powerful connections, the DNNL FutureShapers unConference brought together change-makers shaping a more inclusive, innovative future. Watch the highlights! 🚀🎥
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14:00
Walk-in, Registration & Networking
14:30 Opening by DNNL founder Ruben Brave followed by Keynote from Pinky Lilani CBE DL, Women Of The Future
Lightning Talks By Erik Versnel, Marie Weijler and Ana Alvarez
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15:10-15:30
DNNL & VU Report hand-over by Ruben Brave to Anouschka Biekman, Vincent De Kom, Dave Ensberg.
A New Narrative report brings together insights and experiences from nearly 400 contributors, shaped through 23 roundtables at the DNNL unConferences (2023–2024).The report not only identifies barriers — limited access to networks and capital, complex rules, lack of representation — it also shows what works: resilience, community-building, bridge-building between networks, and making role models visible.
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15:30 - 16:00
Inspiring heartfelt 7-minute talks by Satyendra Pakhalé, Daphne Laan, Joris Rijbroek and Kemo Camara.
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16:00-17:30
This year we have two themes for our roundtables.
Theme 1 : AI, Technology & Economic Equality
Theme 2: Access to Capital Entrepreneurship & Sponsorship
In total we have 6 roundtables with Lead Discussants include Andy Lurling, Bart Van Eyk, Gabriella Obispa, Kayode Aloa, Mattias Scheek, Patricia Darmin, Peter Zerp, Rahel Boon-Dejene, and Seun Owolabi. -
17:30 - 18:00
New this year: the DNNL Community Book Meet & Greet — spotlighting perspectives that are too often overlooked.
Meet our confirmed authors, discover their work, and connect in an informal setting where stories turn into conversations (and, if you’d like, you can purchase a book and get it signed).
Confirmed authors: Gabriella Obispa, Ingrid Tappin 🏳️🌈, Mpanzu Bamenga, Nani Jansen Reventlow, Nesrien Abu Ghazaleh, PhD, Oumar Barry & Pinky Lilani.
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18.00 - 18.15
A special SPOKEN WORD performance by Melanin Kris
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18:15- 19:00
Book Meet & Greet and Professional Photo sessions, Networking and Dinner.Take time to meet those who spark your mind, enjoy delcious dinner curated by FRESH TABLE of founder Yasmina Khababi
We wind up by 20:00
Saturday, January 24, 2026 | 14:00 – 19:00
Location: Rabobank Mondrian Tower, Amstelplein 6–8, 1096 BC Amsterdam