Think Tank for the Sports Ecosystem

In addition to the annual business event, SPORT MARKE MEDIEN serves as a year-round platform and think tank for the industry. Members of the think tank are sports associations and leagues (think tank partners) that address current issues, future trends, and innovation in specific working groups. The think tank promotes regular exchange among its members and shares information and knowledge. The results are incorporated into the conference program and are regularly published in the content hub. The Think Tank Partners represent their respective sports, contribute their concerns and relevant topics, and benefit from increased visibility and reach for their sports.

The goal: To work together to develop concrete solutions to current challenges in the sports business, share best practices, and shape the program for SPORT MARKE MEDIEN.

“SPORT MARKE MEDIEN is essential because it doesn’t just bring the industry together once a year—it serves as a 365-day platform that facilitates genuine guidance, exchange, and progress. Those who participate in SMM benefit from relevant trends, best practices, and high-quality contacts. In short: SMM is the platform that turns exchange into impact.”

Jochen A. Rotthaus

Berater & Ex-GF Bayer 04 Leverkusen, TSG Hoffenheim und VfB Stuttgart

"The SPORT MARKE MEDIEN platform provides a space for the sports business industry and has therefore already become an indispensable event. The networking and the exchange of information and experiences—driven by the diversity of sports, perspectives, and stakeholders—offer a unique value."

Robert Bruck

Geschäftsführer, Deutsche Golf Sport GmbH

"Successful sports communication today is much more than traditional reporting—it is a combination of brand management, platform strategy, storytelling, and community. SPORT MARKE MEDIEN provides an important platform for this and brings together people from the worlds of sports, business, and media who want to actively advance the sport."

Tom Berger

Head of LAOLA 1 Austria

“As the successor to the former ISPO Sports Sponsorship Congress, SMM has quickly reestablished itself as THE premier sports business industry gathering in southern Germany and is THE go-to event for anyone interested in the industry! The event offers a great opportunity to catch up with old acquaintances and expand your network.”

Michael Dinkel

Studiengangsleiter, Duale Hochschule Baden-Würtemmberg

“I see SPORT MARKE MEDIEN as a leading platform for everyone who bears responsibility for the future of sports. SMM brings together exactly the people who are ready to actively shape this change—that’s why I’m serving as an ambassador here.”

Simon Papendorf

Geschäftsführer, Deutscher Tennis Bund

"Sports, Brands, Media—exciting on their own, unbeatable together. It’s exactly this combination that makes the conference so valuable—an absolute must-attend. I’m impressed by the variety of sports, the range of topics, and the mix of networking and professional development."

Guido Kambli

Rechtsanwalt & Mitglied der Geschäftsleitung, BAY

“Modern sports need more than just business—they need vision and collaboration among all stakeholders. SPORT MARKE MEDIEN is the platform that brings together stakeholders, sports clubs, and the business community. Those who participate benefit from expert knowledge and fresh perspectives. As an ambassador, I’m committed to contributing my experience and helping shape the future of the sports business.”

Georg Pangl

Company Owner, Pangl Football Group

“SPORT MARKE MEDIEN creates a platform where sports, business, and media are considered together. SMM brings the right players together, creates visibility, and opens up new avenues for growth and marketing. I’m committed to this because strong networks and clear positioning are crucial.”

Alex Shaw

Ex-Basketballprofi & Managing Director, Scorers 1st Sportsmanagement

Sponsorship & Funding:
How can sports organizations secure sustainable funding and develop new partnerships?

Association Management:
Member Recruitment, Digitalization, and Structures—What Strategies Will Secure the Future of Sports Associations?

Athlete Marketing:
How can athletes build their personal brands and leverage them strategically for themselves and the sport?

Media Rights & Communication:
What opportunities do new digital platforms offer sports organizations, and what does the future of media rights management look like?

Major Events & Competitions:
What new challenges and opportunities exist in event marketing—from championships to leagues?