Simon Knittel

Managing Director
Jung von Matt START
Simon Knittel is Managing Director at Jung von Matt START, the startup-focused unit of the renowned agency group. Based in Berlin, he and his team support early- and growth-stage companies in building strong, scalable brands – across sectors such as digital health, energy, lifestyle, cybersecurity, and FMCG. Under his leadership, JvM START has introduced innovative models like Revenue Based Financing and publishes the annual Startup Brand Ranking as well as the satirical uniKorn. His work proves that startups and agencies can not only collaborate – but do so successfully, both creatively and commercially.

Sessions

6 Sep 2025 – 17:00
Dream Stage (Hall 25)
45 min
Pitch Battle 2025: Breakthrough Battle - Welcoming the Challengers
On IFA’s Dream Stage, ten bold startups face off in the Breakthrough Battle. A fast-paced pitch competition judged on vision, validation, innovation, and that intangible challenger spirit.
Speakers M. Cassese, S. Knittel (Jung von Matt START), J. Monaco (teech), S. Unger (Factory Network)
Language: English
AI
Connectivity
Robotics
Software
Wearables
IFA Next
Audio
Communication & Connectivity
Fitness & Digital Health
Home & Entertainment
Smart Home
7 Sep 2025 – 17:00
Dream Stage (Hall 25)
45 min
Pitch Battle 2025: Breakthrough Battle - The Finale
The IFA Pitch Battle reaches its final stage as the selected startups return to the Dream Stage. In this decisive round, they will present their refined pitches and engage in a deeper Q&A with the jury. At the end of the session, one startup will be announced as the winner, receiving a free booth at IFA Next 2026.
Speakers M. Cassese, S. Knittel (Jung von Matt START), J. Monaco (teech), S. Unger (Factory Network)
Language: English
IFA Next