Annual Berlin Conference 2026:The New Era of EU Fund Management. Empowering Innovation and Intelligence in EU Fund Control — From Risk Analysis to Audit, Verification, and Anti-Fraud Excellence.

Conference Overview

The Annual Berlin Conference 2026: Innovation & Intelligence — The New Era of EU Fund Management is a premier gathering of thought leaders, policymakers, auditors, and innovators dedicated to transforming the future of EU fund oversight. As Europe enters a new phase of digital governance and strategic investment, this conference offers a dynamic platform to explore cutting-edge tools, intelligent systems, and forward-thinking strategies that are reshaping how EU funds are managed, monitored, and protected.

Over two days, participants will engage with expert-led sessions, interactive panels, and hands-on demonstrations focused on:

  • Next-generation technologies for fund control and project execution
  • Advanced risk analysis, predictive auditing, and verification protocols
  • Anti-fraud innovations and compliance strategies for transparent governance
  • Smart project design that delivers efficiency, accountability, and impact

Who Should Attend

This conference is designed to benefit a wide range of stakeholders involved in EU fund management, including:

  • Managing Authorities and Intermediate Bodies overseeing EU-funded programs
  • Auditors and Compliance Officers responsible for verification and control
  • Project Beneficiaries and Implementers seeking smarter, faster, and more effective execution
  • Policy Makers and Regulators shaping the future of EU financial governance
  • Technology Providers and Innovators developing tools for fund oversight
  • Academic and Research Institutions studying public investment and digital transformation

Set in the heart of Berlin, this event is more than a conference — it’s a launchpad for smarter, safer, and more strategic EU fund management. Whether you’re a fund manager, auditor, tech developer, or beneficiary, join us to shape the future where innovation meets intelligence.

Conference Chair

Jo Kremers

The Conference will take place in Adina Apartment Hotel Berlin Checkpoint Charlie. Krausenstraße 35-36, 10117 Berlin

Day 1 — Foundations of AI Literacy & Responsible Use in EU Funding

09:00 – 09:30 | Welcome & Introduction
  • Opening remarks
  • Objectives of the 2‑day seminar
  • Participant expectations and short icebreaker
09:30 – 11:00 | Module 1: AI Literacy for EU Funding

When implementing AI as a tool in EU funding—AI Literacy is a must. This session introduces the regulatory, ethical, and practical foundations needed to use AI safely and responsibly.

Key topics:

  • Overview of the EU AI Act: obligations, risk categories, and compliance expectations
  • Responsibilities when using AI in grant processes
  • Understanding Hybrid Co‑Intelligence: combining human expertise with AI support
  • Benefits, applications, and key risks of AI in public administration
  • Safe and compliant use of AI tools

Format: Presentation, discussion, short case examples

11:00 – 11:15 | Coffee Break

11:15 – 12:45 | Module 2: AI for Writing and (Self)Assessment of EU Funds Applications

AI is transforming how applications are drafted, improved, and assessed.

Key topics:

  • How AI supports structure, clarity, and consistency in applications
  • Using AI for self‑assessment and quality checks
  • Maintaining professional judgment and avoiding over‑reliance
  • Transparency and responsibility when AI contributes to content
  • Practical demonstration of AI‑supported drafting

Format: Live demo, guided exercises

12:45 – 13:45 | Lunch Break
13:45 – 15:15 | Hands‑On Workshop: Applying Modules 1 & 2

Participants work in small groups to:

  • Analyse a sample grant scenario
  • Use AI tools to improve clarity and structure
  • Identify risks, limitations, and compliance considerations

Format: Group work, facilitator feedback

15:15 – 15:30 | Break

15:30 – 16:30 | Reflection & Q&A
  • Lessons learned from Day 1
  • Open discussion on challenges and opportunities
  • Preparing for Day 2

Day 2 — AI for Risk Management, Control Systems & Training

09:00 – 09:15 | Recap of Day 1 & Introduction to Day 2
09:15 – 10:45 | Module 3: Risk Management and AI

AI is reshaping how risks in subsidised projects are identified and managed.

Key topics:

  • AI‑supported risk identification, analysis, and monitoring
  • Enhancing consistency and speed without replacing human judgment
  • Opportunities for prevention and evidence‑based decision‑making
  • Transparency, accountability, and responsible use
  • Practical examples from management and control systems

Format: Presentation + case walkthrough

10:45 – 11:00 | Coffee Break

11:00 – 12:30 | Module 4: AI for MCS, Verifications, Audits & the Anti‑Fraud Cycle

How AI strengthens the entire control and audit chain.

Key topics:

  • Using chatbots and AI tools for smarter verifications and audits
  • Early detection of anomalies and fraud indicators
  • Analysing large datasets efficiently and consistently
  • Explainability and accountability in AI‑supported decisions
  • Building a resilient, future‑proof anti‑fraud framework

Format: Demonstrations, practical examples

12:30 – 13:30 | Lunch Break

13:30 – 15:00 | Module 5: AI as a Tool and Co‑Trainer for Education & Training

AI as a partner in capacity building for EU funds authorities.

Key topics:

  • AI‑supported training design and delivery
  • Translating complex regulations into accessible learning
  • Personalized learning paths and adaptive training
  • Using AI to create realistic case studies and simulations
  • Ensuring transparency and responsible use in training contexts

Format: Interactive exploration of training tools

15:00 – 15:15 | Break

15:15 – 16:15 | Integrated Exercise: Building an AI‑Enhanced Workflow

Participants design a workflow that integrates:

  • AI‑supported drafting
  • AI‑supported risk management
  • AI‑supported verification or training

Outcome: A practical, future‑proof model tailored to their organisation.

16:15 – 16:30 | Closing Session
  • Key takeaways
  • Final Q&A
  • Certificates & farewell

Experts

Jo Kremers, CPA IT Auditor | Fraud Investigator | International Lecturer Jo Kremers is a leading expert in risk management, auditing, and combating fraud and corruption. A former Senior Audit Manager at the Audit Authority of the Netherlands, he contributed to the creation of the EU/EC Anti-Fraud Knowledge Centre (launched in 2021). He is the developer of the EU award-winning Anti-Fraud and Anti-Corruption Games and lectures at prestigious institutions, including the International Anti-Corruption Academy (IACA) in Vienna. With extensive expertise and innovative approaches, Jo Kremers is a sought-after lecturer and speaker worldwide.

Jo Kremers

Former Senior Audit Manager Audit Authority The Netherlands

Anita Krūmiņa is the Director of the Central Finance and Contracting Agency in Latvia, with over 20 years of experience in managing EU-funded programmes. She has held key leadership roles in programme management, procurement, and financial control, and has served as a short-term expert in EU projects in Croatia. As a frequent speaker at international seminars, including events by the European Academy for Taxes, Economics and Law, she shares her expertise in fund management, monitoring, and institutional capacity building. Anita holds degrees in Economics and International Relations and is fluent in Latvian, English, Russian, and German.

Anita Krumina

Director of Central Finance and Contracting Agency Latvia

Do you have more questions?

Contact us

Your contact person

Contact form

Berlin, Germany

This course will take place in the vibrant city of Berlin, providing an inspiring backdrop for an immersive learning experience.

Adina Apartment Hotel Berlin Checkpoint. Krausenstraße 35-36, 10117 Berlin

Training Fee Inclusions

In addition to comprehensive training materials, the seminar fee covers the following:

a) Catering Services

  • Daily provision of three coffee breaks and one lunch, ensuring participants’ comfort and opportunities for informal networking.

b) Experiential Learning Session: Guided Tour & Culinary Exploration

  • A professionally guided tour offering insights into the cultural and historical context of the region, designed to complement seminar discussions through direct exposure to local heritage.
  • A structured food street tasting experience, curated to highlight the diversity of local culinary practices and their socio‑economic significance. This activity fosters intercultural understanding and encourages dialogue among participants.

c) Participant Recognition

  • A group family photo and selected souvenirs provided to actively engaged participants as a token of appreciation and memory of the seminar.

d) Digital Materials Package

  • Access to a curated set of digital resources, including background readings supporting independent study and reinforcing key seminar themes.

Your contact person

ENROLL

If you’d like support with your booking, feel free to email us – we’ll take care of everything.
Alternatively, you can fill out the form below.

Please note: In some government institutions, security settings may block the form. If the form does not work, don’t hesitate to email us directly.

Participant

Mandatory fields are marked with *.

Invoice Organisation

Participants:
Total: € (excl. VAT)
Total: € (excl. VAT)