345 days until PICNIC09

Visitors could choose from an abundant programme of events including a high-level international conference as well as numerous 'Specials', 'Labs' and other partner events. PICNIC has evolved into a platform that is becoming increasingly interesting for international parties as well. During the event, specials were offered by the European Broadcasting Union, the European Journalism Centre and various other international organisations. Amsterdam now also offers many more events during the PICNIC Week: many companies and organisations regard PICNIC as an excellent opportunity to host their own events 'off-PICNIC'.

PICNIC: focus on talent and entrepreneurship
Over 800 schoolchildren joined in PICNIC Young’s interactive workshops. The PICNIC Academy was attended by 700 students, and the 100 best graduates from media, design and art colleges met up during the ‘Hot100’ Special. PICNIC also invited 25 start-ups to introduce themselves.

During the event, new companies contended for various awards. During the Vodafone Mobile Click Awards, 100,000 Euros were awarded to the best start-ups in the mobile industry (Nulaz, TipSpot and MaptheGap). The PICNIC Green Challenge awarded a total of 600,000 Euros to the best green initiatives (Greensulate and Veranda Solar), while the ‘Ding’ Award’ granted a development budget of 50,000 Euros to the best artistic game (´A Split Second´, a joint initiative by the Stedelijk Museum and SubmarineC...