What is the b° future festival about?
The b° future festival is Europe's only festival for journalism and constructive dialogue. In a time full of crises, upheavals and big questions, the festival brings together people who are committed to future-focused journalism that puts people at its core. It's journalism that is solutions-oriented, rich in perspectives and open to all.
From October 2 to 4, 2025, Bonn's city center will become a stage for discussions about media, the future and solidarity. The festival is open to everyone who wants to think about and help shape the future. It goes beyond presenting specialist knowledge to foster meaningful exchange between people, with their different perspectives and ideas.
The festival does not take place in the usual spaces, because to have a true conversation, you need proximity. And that is precisely why we are looking for hosts who are willing to open up their homes and become part of the festival dialogue.
Why we are looking for hosts
Around 300 speakers from 27 countries took part in the last b° future festival, where they shared their perspectives, experiences and ideas. This year, we once again expect many international guests to bring the festival with life.
What many people don't know: Our speakers do not receive any fees. They take part because they believe in the idea behind the festival – in open, constructive dialogue that is accessible to everyone. This is the only way we can offer a large amount of free events.
By offering a place to sleep in your home, you are helping to ensure that this openness can also be felt offstage. You create a space where festival guests are welcomed to our city and where meaningful exchanges can take place – and become part of what this festival is all about.
Would you like to participate?
If you would like to host a guest during the festival, we would be delighted to hear from you.
It is important that you can offer an individual room with a proper bed and that your guest has free access to the accommodation, with their own key, for example.
Interested hosts should fill out this short questionnaire, in which we will collect further details about the housing arrangements you can offer (e.g. accessibility, room type or special household features, etc.).
To the questionnaire
Q&A for hosts
Frequently asked questions - briefly explained
Here you will find answers to the most frequently asked questions about hosting during the b° future festival
What do I have to provide as a host?
An individual room with a real bed or a proper and comfortable sofa bed. Guests are here to work, and many of them will be presenting in front of large crowds. They need a space where they can relax and get a good night's sleep. Bed linen and towels should also be provided.
Does the person need their own bathroom?
No. A shared bathroom is perfectly fine.
Do I have to offer food or breakfast?
No, you do not need to provide your guests with any meals. However, it is expected that your guests have access to drinking water and it would be nice if they could make tea or coffee. Anything beyond this should be agreed up in advance. You do not have to make your kitchen available for use.
Do I have to allow my guest to store food in the kitchen?
No. If your guests would like to store food in the kitchen, they should discuss this with you beforehand. You are not obligated to provide space for this.
Do I have to give guests a key?
Your guests should be able to enter and leave the accommodation independently. This requires a key or some other form of free access.
How does the host family/guest matching process work?
You fill out our questionnaire, and interested guests fill out another. Based on your details, we will look for a suitable person and then connect you with them.
Can I host more than one person?
Yes, if you have several rooms that meet our requirements.
Can I also accept someone with a child or partner?
Yes, if you can offer a double room or a room with more than two beds.
Can I express my wishes about who I accept?
At the end of the questionnaire there is space where you can write anything else that is important to you in the selection and hosting process.
Are there guests with physical disabilities?
Yes, possibly. If your apartment is handicap accessible, please let us know – this will help us with placements.
Do I receive an expense allowance?
No. Participation in the host program is voluntary and unpaid. However, the experience of meeting new people is an enriching experience for the hosts.
What if I have to cancel last-minute?
Please let us know as soon as possible so that we can find a solution.
Wo kann ich mich melden, wenn ich offene Fragen habe?
Bei Fragen, wenden Sie sich gerne an festival@bonn-institute.org.