Verein Berliner Kaufleute und Industrieller (VBKI)

Verein Berliner Kaufleute und Industrieller (VBKI), established in 1879, is one of Germany’s oldest and most influential business associations. With around 2,300 members from diverse sectors such as banking, industry, consulting, real estate, IT, and healthcare, the VBKI forms the largest and most significant economic network in Berlin. Its membership is open not only to people and businesses rooted in Berlin, but also to those from across Europe who wish to shape the region’s future. VBKI’s core activities revolve around strengthening Berlin as a business location through networking, dialogue, and civic engagement. The association acts as a bridge between business leaders, policymakers, scientists, and civil society, providing a forum for addressing economic challenges and promoting innovation. Regular events, such as the prestigious Ball der Wirtschaft and numerous high-level networking and discussion forums, foster the exchange of ideas and experiences among key decision-makers. Guided by a tradition of responsible entrepreneurship, VBKI also supports a variety of charitable projects and initiatives, such as integration programs for migrants and refugees entering the labor market. Its working groups and think tanks address pressing issues, generate strategic recommendations, and support Berlin’s growth and international competitiveness. Over its long history, VBKI has evolved into a respected voice both within Berlin and beyond, committed to making the city more livable and future-oriented while upholding values of openness, dialogue, and social responsibility.