For more than a decade, Newsgeist has brought together leading journalists, publishers, educators, researchers, media entrepreneurs and technologists to tackle the most pressing issues facing our news and information landscape, all in its signature unscripted, highly engaged unconference format. In 2025, the Center for News, Technology and Innovation (CNTI) assumed stewardship of this treasured event as these conversations matter more than ever today. We hosted our first Newsgeist in October in Phoenix, Ariz., with a great turnout and deep, forward-looking discussion.
This year, we are taking Newsgeist across the Atlantic. In partnership with the Hamburg Media School, a hub of media innovation, Newsgeist 2026 will convene October 16-18, 2026 in their home city of Hamburg, Germany. The invite-only event kicks off during the evening of Friday, Oct. 16 and wraps up midday on Sunday, Oct. 18.
What is a Newgeist unconference?
Newsgeist runs on the unconference model: no preset agenda, no passive audience. What attendees bring to the table becomes the weekend’s program. We ask that attendees bring ideas for deep, honest and forward-looking discussion with their colleagues, who will span journalism, technology, civil society, research and more from Europe, the U.S. and other regions around the world.
Newsgeist also features Ignite Talks, a staple of the event since its inception. Ignite Talks catalyze the discussions at the heart of this unconference. The Ignite Talks format is distinct: a 5-minute talk accompanied by 20 slides that auto-advance every 15 seconds. Typically, speakers share an idea, experience, perspective or project. The take can be serious, amusing, revealing or provocative; it just can’t be a pitch for their work or product.
How to prepare for Newsgeist 2026
We ask all attendees to review the following documents before attending: Making of the Newsgeist 2026 Unconference, Chatham House Rule and the Newsgeist Code of Conduct.
About Hamburg Media School
Founded in 2003, Hamburg Media School (HMS) is a Hamburg-based institution offering interdisciplinary, practice-oriented education for media managers, journalists and filmmakers. Operating as a public-private partnership, HMS is backed by the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg, the University of Hamburg, the University of Fine Arts and an HMS Foundation supported by around 60 digital and media companies, giving it strong ties to both academia and industry. Newsgeist 2026 takes place on the HMS campus, making it a fitting home for a gathering at the intersection of journalism, technology and media innovation.
Where to stay
Newsgeist 2026 participants are encouraged to stay at The George or Motel One, both located approximately a 25-minute walk from the venue. The area is also well-served by public transit, and a shuttle will be available between the venue and hotels.
The George
The George
We’ll be hosting a special dinner at The George on one of our evenings together at no cost to Newsgeist 2026 attendees, making it the ideal home base for the weekend. A 4-star hotel located in St. Georg with views of the Alster, the garden, and the surrounding district.
Motel One
Motel One
A modern budget design hotel near the Alster Lake, featuring stylish rooms and the One Lounge bar.
For specific questions about your Newsgeist 2026 accommodation or the room block, please email newsgeist@cnti.org.
Founding sponsors
As in previous years, there is no fee to attend Newsgeist — participants only pay for their travel and accommodation. This is made possible by the generous support of our Newsgeist 2026 founding sponsors, for whom we are incredibly grateful.
Interested in hosting Newsgeist?
Newsgeist thrives on the energy of its host city and the commitment of its local partners. If your organization is interested in co-organizing a future Newsgeist event, we’d love to hear from you. Ideal host partners bring access to a venue with ample space for open, flexible programming; strong ties to the local journalism, technology, or media community; and ideally, support from city or regional stakeholders. Experience co-hosting convenings or professional events is a plus.
If this sounds like your organization, reach out to us at newsgeist@cnti.org.
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