Germany is at a crucial point. For decades, we were a symbol of reliability, engineering skill and economic strength. But in a world that is changing rapidly due to data, automation and artificial intelligence, this alone is no longer enough to secure our prosperity.

We are facing major social and economic challenges. Our population is ageing, the shortage of skilled workers is growing and productivity is stagnating in many sectors. At the same time, other countries are making rapid progress with digitalization and creating ecosystems that promote innovation and the courage to experiment. In Germany, on the other hand, we often lose too much time in discussions about risks and regulations. Hesitating too long can mean losing touch.

Many companies are still reluctant to take the step towards AI. They do not yet fully understand the possibilities and potential and therefore see AI as unknown territory. But at Merantix Momentum, we have already implemented numerous solutions and created many success stories that show that AI works and creates real added value. We now need to spread awareness, make the opportunities visible and encourage companies to take the first step. At the same time, it is up to politicians to create incentives and promote measures that make it easier for companies to introduce and use these technologies.

Digitalization and AI should not replace people, they should empower them. They can give back time, make processes more efficient and open up new opportunities. In medicine, industry or administration, AI can make work easier, save resources and make processes faster and more transparent. It is crucial that we see technology as a tool that serves people and not the other way around.

Trust is the first step. People need to feel that technology will benefit them. We need a clear framework for responsible AI that guarantees data protection, fairness and ethics without stifling innovation. We need leaders who see digitalization as the core of our work and society and who actively shape change.

Education is a central building block. Digital skills must not be a privilege, they must be accessible to everyone. In schools, universities and vocational training, understanding data, algorithmic thinking and dealing with AI must be taught as naturally as reading and writing. Investing in digital education means investing in the resilience and future viability of our country.

At Merantix Momentum, I experience every day how much is possible when science, business and entrepreneurship work together. AI must be a tool that strengthens organizations, improves processes and supports people, always adapted to their values and needs. The best solutions are created when different perspectives come together.

Germany has everything it needs to successfully shape this transformation: excellent minds, a strong industrial base and a deep sense of responsibility for the common good. What we often lack is the courage and determination to act faster, try out new things and learn from mistakes. A more digitalized and AI-oriented Germany would put us on the global map as a technology pioneer. While the USA and China are already miles ahead, we need to catch up - both to increase our economic value and to gain more geopolitical influence.

Now is the time to act. Every day of hesitation costs us opportunities and the future. If we shape digitalization with courage, responsibility and empathy, we can not only strengthen our economy, but also create a society that is fairer, more connected and more future-oriented. Progress happens when we act together, step by step, with openness and conviction, and when we have the courage to learn from success stories and inspire others to take the first step too.