Berlin Strategic Networking

Think. Connect. Grow.

We're starting something new in Berlin's startup scene. Skip the small talk and build meaningful connections over chess. Founders, investors, and mentors welcome.

16
Max Per Session
3h
Session Duration
1x
Monthly Frequency
All
Skill Levels
The Idea

Why We're Building This

Traditional networking events feel forced and transactional. We think chess creates a better environment for authentic connections - shared focus, strategic thinking, and natural conversation.

🧠

Cognitive Alignment

Connect with strategic thinkers - founders, investors, and mentors who understand long-term planning and calculated risk-taking.

Focused Interaction

No elevator pitches or business card exchanges. Meaningful conversations develop naturally during and between games.

🎯

Quality Over Quantity

Small groups of 12-16 participants per session - founders, investors, mentors - ensure everyone connects meaningfully.

🔄

Sustainable Connections

Monthly sessions build deeper connections over time without overwhelming busy schedules. Quality relationships develop naturally.

⚖️

Skill-Agnostic

From beginners to masters, all levels welcome. The goal is connection, not competition. Teaching moments create natural bonding.

🏠

Berlin-Focused

We're building this specifically for Berlin's startup ecosystem. Connect with people solving similar market challenges and navigating the same environment.

Getting Started

How We're Planning This

Starting small and simple. We want to build something sustainable that actually works for busy founders, investors, and mentors.

1

Sign Up

Let us know you're interested and a bit about your background. We'll keep group sizes small and try to balance the mix of roles.

2

Get Invited

We'll send details for upcoming sessions. Planning monthly meetups with 12-16 people per session.

3

Play & Connect

3-hour evening sessions with 4-5 rounds of chess. Rotating partners ensure you meet everyone. Light refreshments provided.

4

Stay Connected

Keep the conversations going. We'll set up ways for the group to stay in touch between sessions.

First Sessions

Getting Started

We're planning our first sessions for July 2025. Starting small to see what works.

July 2025 • Evening

First Session

📍 Berlin • Venue TBD

Our first meetup. We're working on securing a good venue in central Berlin with chess sets, decent lighting, and space for 16 people.

Get Notified
August+ • Monthly

Regular Sessions

📍 Berlin • Various Venues

If the first session works well, we'll run regular monthly meetups. Experimenting with different locations and formats.

Stay Updated
Community

Why Strategic Minds Choose Chess

Chess has been the game of choice for strategic thinkers throughout history. From business leaders to tech innovators, the game creates unique bonding experiences.

Chess is mental torture. You're constantly under pressure, having to think fast and make the right moves. It's very similar to the startup world.

PR

Peter Thiel

Co-founder, PayPal • Founder's Fund

In chess you try to do your best, but there are instances where you make mistakes or you try and take risks that you shouldn't. And I think that's applicable to business.

MS

Magnus Carlsen

World Chess Champion • Tech Investor

Chess helps you to concentrate, improve your logic. It teaches you to play by the rules and take responsibility for your actions, how to problem solve in uncertain situations.

GK

Garry Kasparov

Former World Champion • Tech Advisor

Interested in Joining?

Let us know if you'd like to be part of this. We'll keep you updated as we organize the first sessions.