We are living in uncertain times.

For business schools navigating uncertainty, the speed of technological change (including the rapid rise of AI), a shifting geopolitical landscape, economic volatility, and evolving policy regimes such as pushback against DEI efforts are converging to challenge long-held assumptions across sectors. The result is an acceleration of complexity—and a growing demand for reinvention.

So, how do we navigate all this?

Every institution will find its own path, but understanding the broader context—and connecting with others facing similar questions—is a powerful first step. That’s precisely what the 2025 EFMD Annual Conference, held this year from 1–3 June in Munich, is designed to offer. Under the theme “Navigating Uncertainty: Business Schools and the Ecosystems of Innovation,” we’ve built a programme that offers the right combination of insight, provocation, and conversation starters to help make sense of the moment we’re in.

Why Munich?

As this year’s host city, Munich provides a vibrant setting for our conversations. The conference is hosted by TUM School of Management, one of Europe’s leading institutions and a hub for research and entrepreneurial thinking. From global corporations like SAP to representatives of the Mittelstand—Germany’s resilient small- and medium-sized enterprises—local speakers will share how they are navigating uncertainty through continuous innovation.

And with UnternehmerTUM recently ranked for the second consecutive year as Europe’s number one Start-Up hub, the city gives us a glimpse of how innovation ecosystems respond and thrive in volatile times—the ideal backdrop for this year’s theme.

AI: From buzzword to practical challenge

Artificial intelligence is at the heart of several key sessions. One on Collaboration for AI Innovation in Business Schools brings in Conchita Diaz Cantarero, who is responsible for all AI training at Google EMEA, to offer practical strategies for institutions looking to scale their AI efforts. For many, collaboration with tech leaders will be a vital step toward becoming AI-ready.

We’ll also tackle what AI means for accreditation standards and processes, as well as its implications for business itself—offering a full-spectrum view of how this technology is reshaping our work.

A fractured global order and how to respond

Another core theme is navigating internationalisation in a world marked by fragmentation and geopolitical tensions. One session will explore how schools can remain globally engaged and rethink internationalisation, and another dedicated breakout on how to prepare students for coercion and conquest will delve into these dynamics, offering space for open and nuanced dialogue. These sessions reflect the reality for business schools navigating uncertainty in a more divided world, where preparing students for complexity means addressing geopolitics head-on.

Responding to social and policy shifts

As societal expectations and policy environments evolve, business schools are navigating increasingly complex and often polarised debates—on inclusion, values, and institutional identity. A number of sessions in the programme provide space to reflect on how schools are approaching these shifts, both strategically and practically.

Challenging the system itself

We’ll close with a plenary from Rebecca Henderson, who will not only challenge the role of business schools but also the broader system—capitalism—that underpins today’s disruptions. What kind of models could drive more sustainable, inclusive, and responsible futures—and how can business schools lead the way?

New ways to engage and connect

To complement these big conversations, we’re also experimenting with new ways to connect. Ahead of one session, participants will be invited to interact with an AI-powered voice interview—an immersive way to prepare for a deeper exchange. And to foster collaboration beyond the event, we are about to launch a matchmaking facility through the registration system, helping schools identify potential partners for new joint initiatives.

Even more to discover

The full programme offers many more sessions and themes—ranging from leadership and social impact, strategy, and beyond. We invite you to explore the complete agenda on our conference website and discover the conversations most relevant to you.

Join the conversation

The EFMD Annual Conference is more than a gathering—it’s a chance to reflect, connect, and move forward with purpose. In times of change, community matters more than ever—for business schools navigating uncertainty, spaces like this are not a luxury but a necessity. We look forward to navigating what’s next—together. Register by April 30th to take advantage of the early bird fee.

Curious about what the EFMD Annual Conference experience is like? Explore highlights and photos from the 2024 edition, reflections from last year’s chairperson, Marion Debruyne, and live reactions on our X feed.

For additional insights, announcements and perspectives on Business Education, visit the conversation here.