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Opening Corda Arena

13/11/2026
18:00 - 00:00
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Where innovation

comes to life

Join us for the official opening of Corda Arena, a new destination where technology, creativity, and immersive experiences come together.

As the closing event of Flanders Technology & Innovation, it also marks the start of a new innovative chapter in Flanders.

Under the theme “Connecting Minds. Inspiring Futures." , guests will experience a spectacular evening where people, ideas, and technology come together.
Expect inspiring keynotes, immersive showcases, stunning light shows, captivating music performances, and interactive installations that spark the senses and connect audiences.

Corda Arena, a modern building with illuminated geometric structures, labeled "Corda Arena," at dusk. Reflections shimmer in the adjacent water.

Speakers

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Hannelore Knuts
SPEAKER

Hannelore Knuts is a Belgian model, creative entrepreneur, and sustainability advocate known for her international career in fashion and her forward-thinking vision on innovation and conscious living. With her unique perspective on creativity, technology, and human impact, she brings an inspiring voice to the event as one of its featured speakers.

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Dirk De Wachter
PANEL MEMBER

Dirk De Wachter is one of Belgium's most respected psychiatrists, psychotherapists, and authors. Renowned for his profound insights into human connection, mental well-being, and the complexities of modern life, he has inspired audiences worldwide through his bestselling books, lectures, and media appearances. At the opening of Corda Arena, he will share his unique perspective on resilience, connection, and the human side of innovation

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Kobe Ilsen
MODERATOR

Kobe Ilsen is a well-known Belgian television host, speaker, and storyteller with a passion for innovation, creativity, and human connection. Known for his engaging stage presence and dynamic interviewing style, he will guide the audience through the evening as moderator of the event.

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Dorien Leyers
ROVING REPORTER

Dorien Leyers is a Belgian television presenter and reporter, known for her engaging storytelling, curiosity, and warm on-screen presence. Throughout the evening, she will take audiences behind the scenes as Corda Arena's roving reporter, bringing exclusive interviews, backstage moments, and live insights that connect guests with the people, technology, and creativity shaping this landmark opening event.

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We will announce more speakers soon
Stay tuned for the latest updates

New speakers and special guests will be announced regularly in the lead-up to the event. Expect an exciting lineup of innovators, visionaries, and inspiring voices shaping the future of technology and human connection.

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Program

18:00

Doors open & Welcome Reception

19:00

Opening Show – The Future Connection
A spectacular multimedia opening celebrating creativity, technology, and human connection. The evening begins with a symbolic opening ceremony, followed by a breathtaking live performance by SUNA and an immersive visual production.

19:15

Official Welcome
Host Kobe Ilsen officially welcomes the audience and is joined by distinguished guests to reflect on the power of innovation, creativity, and technology. This moment also marks the official closing celebration of FTI Flanders.

19:25

Dinner: First Course

20:10

FIBA Awards Ceremony
Celebrating outstanding entrepreneurship with the presentation of the FIBA Startup, Export and Foreign Investor Awards, accompanied by inspiring stories and video portraits of the finalists and winners.

20:35

Dinner: Main Course

21:35

Immersive Performance
An innovative holographic performance showcasing the technological possibilities of Corda Arena and the future of live entertainment.

21:40

Inspiring Conversations
Kobe Ilsen sits down with visionary guests to explore the future of technology, creativity, and humanity, featuring Hannelore Knuts, Chris Umé, Kevin Umé, and Dirk De Wachter.

22:00

Celebrating the Future
A memorable finale featuring an international glimpse from leading international venues, followed by a spectacular live music performance

22:10

Dessert Experience & Networking
An informal networking reception with a dessert buffet and DJ set.

Large tech presentation in a modern arena with a stage, giant screens with information and a hologram of a humanoid robot next to some real humanoid robots, and a seated audience watching the keynote.

Practical Info

Accessibility
By train

Kiewit station:
5 minute walk to Corda Arena

By Car

Located near the E313 highway
Kempische Steenweg 293
3500 Hasselt - Belgium

parking

Plenty of parking on-site
Wide variety of EV charging points

Wheelchair accessible

Corda Arena is fully wheelchair accessible, including entrances, elevators and restrooms

Join the waiting list

Tickets for the Opening Show of Corda Arena are sold out!


What's included in your ticket?
- 3 course, seated dinner
- drinks from 18:00 until 00:00
- opening show
- network reception

Table of 10 people: 2.750€ ex. VAT
Single ticket: 275€ ex. VAT

Join the waiting list

Join the waiting list here.

Dress code

This event is an elegant gala evening - formal attire is requested.

Networking

Dedicated networking moments are planned before and after the show, giving attendees the opportunity to connect with professionals, innovators, and partners.

ArenaStreams

Discover ArenaStreams, our dynamic platform where you can follow live events in real time and access inspiring and innovative on-demand videos. Explore fresh ideas, engaging stories, and forward-thinking content, all in one place. Join ArenaStreams and stay inspired.

Buy your

tickets

Don't miss out on the excitement at Corda Arena! Grab your ticket now to experience the future of events firsthand. Secure your spot today and be part of something extraordinary.

Join the waiting list