The event “CIM Vienna – Networking Event: The Alchemy of Connection” was held in Vienna, bringing together prominent professionals from the fields of creative industries, arts, business, and international cooperation.
The event was organized as part of the fifth anniversary of the CIM Forum Kotor, marking a significant step toward internationalization and positioning the project on the European stage as a relevant platform for connecting creative professionals from various fields—film, media, design, architecture, and music. As a meeting point for diverse creative worlds, CIM continues to build bridges between ideas, people, and cultures.
The program was opened by Branimir Žugić, co-founder and program director of CIM Forum Kotor, who emphasized the importance of authentic connection and international collaboration:
“From the very beginning, we wanted to create a space where people truly connect—and today we are bringing that spirit of CIM from Kotor to Vienna, which is proving to be a natural partner in developing creative bridges.”
In the opening remarks, the Ambassador of Montenegro to Austria, H.E. Stanica Anđić, highlighted the importance of cultural diplomacy and connection:
“The CIM Vienna event clearly demonstrated how creative exchange can translate into concrete collaboration, bringing together entrepreneurs and creatives while creating space for dialogue, inspiration, and the development of new initiatives.”
During the panel on creative industries and international cooperation, Reanne Leuning from Advantage Austria pointed out the importance of strategic networking and international partnerships, while film director and producer Michael Stoeger spoke about the role of art in connecting cultures, emphasizing that collaboration today forms the foundation for the advancement of contemporary creative practices.
From an international perspective, Wen Liu, creative director from M.A.R.S. Studio, stressed the importance of cultural exchange and dialogue in a globally connected world. In segments dedicated to architecture, branding and strategy, as well as career development in the creative industries, participants Nikola Novaković, Tamara Kramer, and Katarina Stanisavljević highlighted authenticity, heritage, and clear communication as key elements of modern creativity.
The musical segment of the evening featured soprano Petra Radulović and accordionist Anela Cindrak, who, through their art, presented the power of music, determination, and personal perseverance—symbolically connecting Austria and Montenegro and confirming that music remains a universal language of collaboration.
The closing remarks were delivered by Kristina Gačević, co-founder and executive director of CIM Forum Kotor, who invited participants to the next edition in Kotor:
“Five years of CIM Forum confirm that we have built a strong community of professionals, contacts, ideas, and collaborations. The event in Vienna represents our step into Europe and the beginning of even more intensive international networking.”
In addition to its formal program, the event was marked by a strong networking segment in a relaxed atmosphere—something CIM Forum is well known for—further strengthening the exchange of ideas and potential future collaborations among participants.
As part of the next edition of CIM Forum in Kotor, a CC4WBs Networking Event will also be organized, supported by UNESCO through the project “Culture and Creativity for the Western Balkans” (CC4WBs), funded by the European Union and jointly implemented by UNESCO, the British Council, and the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS).
CIM Forum Kotor continues to grow as a leading regional platform for creative industries, with a clear vision—connection, exchange, and co-creation without borders—confirming that creativity most easily transcends boundaries when there is space for meeting and dialogue.
Festival partners:
Patron: Municipality of Kotor
Official network: Crnogorski Telekom
Official bank: CKB Banka
Health Corner sponsor: AstraZeneca
IT Partner: Logate
Host of the Vienna networking event: Regus Palais Vienna