Digital Sovereignty: Managing Big Tech Dependencies and Cyber Risks BFH Business Breakfast

In an increasingly interconnected world, digital sovereignty has become a key strategic priority for organizations. At the BFH Business Breakfast, experts and practitioners will explore practical approaches to reducing dependencies, strengthening resilience and security, and shaping a human-centred digital future with greater control and confidence.

Matthias Stürmer shows how current geopolitical tensions have revealed the dependence of governments, businesses, and citizens on a few international technology providers and the risks this creates. He explains how open-source software and open-source AI can strengthen digital sovereignty and resilience, highlighting the role of the new Swiss Centre for Digital Sovereignty (Zentrum SDS) in enabling local technological alternatives.

Bruce Nikkel explains how modern technology is built on many hidden global dependencies, making true technological sovereignty much more difficult than it seems. It explores the interconnected layers of the technology stack and highlights the risks these dependencies create for digital independence.

Note: The event will be held in English – no simultaneous translation provided.

Panel and Networking

The panel discussion brings together business leaders to exchange perspectives, challenge ideas, and share practical insights on the topic. Through an engaging debate informed by diverse experiences, the conversation will offer valuable takeaways and fresh viewpoints, while also providing a strong foundation for meaningful networking and continued discussions over coffee.

Workshops

Following the event, two workshops offering an opportunity to dive deeper into the topic will be held. Each workshop is limited to 20 participants and requires prior registration. There is also the option to join a 20-minute ZID tour.

Workshop with Matthias Stürmer: “Beyond Dependency: From Concepts to Practice“

During the workshop, participants will learn about solutions and case studies related to open-source software and AI alternatives. They will also discover successful methods employed by governments and businesses to minimize vendor lock-in and reduce licensing costs. Finally, participants will explore the practical activities of the Swiss Center for Digital Sovereignty and learn how to collaborate with and benefit from its initiatives.

Workshop with Christian Grothoff and Andreas Danuser: “Digital Sovereignty for Businesses: The Case for FLOSS”

This workshop explores why digital sovereignty is a growing strategic priority for businesses. It explains how Free/Libre and Open Source Software (FLOSS) and self-hosted on-premises solutions help organizations reduce vendor lock-in, improve resilience, and maintain greater control over their digital infrastructure.

Registration

Registration is required for this event. The registration deadline is October 16, 2026.

Objective and Target Audience

One topic, two expert inputs, plenty of ideas and ample opportunity for exchange and networking – that’s the BFH Business Breakfast.

The event is aimed at anyone facing a digital transformation process and looking to implement it successfully. It is particularly relevant for business representatives dealing with the challenge of balancing technological progress with the needs of human employees within their organisation.

Keynote Speakers

• Prof. Dr. Matthias Stürmer is a professor at the Bern University of Applied Sciences and Head of the Institute for Public Sector Transformation, and he is lecturer at the Institute of Computer Science at University of Bern. His teaching, research, and consulting focus on digital sustainability, digital sovereignty, open source software, natural language processing, open data, and ICT procurement. Matthias Stürmer is president of the Swiss open source association CH Open, president of the Digital Impact Network, managing director of the Swiss Parliamentarian Group for Digital Sustainability (Parldigi), and a former member of the city parliament of Bern.

• Prof. Dr. Bruce Nikkel is a professor at the Bern University of Applied Sciences and Co-Head of the Institute for Cybersecurity and Engineering. He researches and teaches digital forensics, cybercrime, Linux, and computer history. Bruce has a PhD in digital forensics, headed the digital forensics team at UBS for 17 years, and has authored two books on Linux forensics. He is a strong supporter of free and open source software.

Hosts

• Prof. Dr. Sarah Dégallier Rochat, Head of the Strategic Focus Area Human-Centred Digital Transformation at BFH

• Martin Hofer, Managing Director ZID Bernapark