Inspired by the bestselling book of Hermann Simon Hidden Champions of the 21^st Century, the conference will highlight business stories, strategies and challenges of “hidden champions” from Central and Eastern Europe. Hidden champions are highly innovative, differentiated and specialized small to medium size companies holding lead market positions in narrow market segments internationally. They successfully ride on a wave of global competitiveness and even in times of economic turndown demonstrate the capacity to grow.

Results from research on hidden champions from CEE, conducted by a group of management education institutions from the region under CEEMAN leadership, will also be presented at the conference, along with insights from other regions.

The event will bring together:

• Hidden champions;
• Business leaders;
• Business thinkers in the area of economic growth, international entrepreneurship and innovation;
• Venture capital funds and other investors;
• Management educators; and
• Government officials.

It will enable an exchange of viewpoints, insights and ideas addressing developments down the championship road and beyond, more specifically:

• Economic, technological, and social importance of hidden champions;
• Emerging sectors targeted by hidden champions;
• Growth and financing issues of hidden champions;
• Competitiveness, cooperation and cohesion of hidden champions;
• Insights and matters relevant for policy makers.

The conference on Hidden Champions in CEE and Dynamically Changing Environments presents a unique opportunity to network, share perspectives and experiences, learn, build new partnerships and help enhance business and social cohesion in CEE and beyond.

For more information, please contact CEEMAN at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or tel. +386 4 57 92 505.