Within the framework of the Reinhard Mohn Prize 2020, the Bertelsmann Stiftung conducted a global search for notable examples of mechanisms and strategies that could be applied to promoting innovative capacity in Germany and Europe. The aim of our efforts has been to ensure not only that Germany remains technologically – and thus economically – competitive, but also to ensure that our economic development remains humane, inclusive and democratic. 

“We should discuss and share our thoughts and ideas together in order to build a future that can feed everyone.” For Nechemia (Chemi) Peres, chair of the Peres Center for Peace and Innovation and current recipient of the Reinhard Mohn Prize, human intelligence and creativity are the foundation for a common future and lasting peace. In this interview, the dedicated promoter of innovation explains how important it is to bring people together. Text: Steffan Heuer   

An article by Dr. Brigitte Mohn, member of the Bertelsmann Stiftung Executive Board

Chemi Peres is an entrepreneur, a champion of start-ups, and the son of a Nobel Peace Prize recipient. He’s a sensation, and not just in his native state of Israel. But more than anything else, he’s a forward thinker with a clear vision, urging us to “innovate in order to create a tomorrow that everyone can participate in.”

 Our foundation today awarded its Reinhard Mohn Prize to the chairman of the Peres Center for Peace and Innovation, Nechemia ("Chemi") Peres. The topic of the 2020 Reinhard Mohn Prize is "Fostering Innovation. Unlocking Potential." Due to the pandemic, it was not possible to award the prize until this year. We are using the prize to honor the entrepreneur for his outstanding commitment to promoting innovation that serves both business and society. Peres accepted the prize, which comes with an award of €200,000, from Liz Mohn, our worldwide representative, in Gütersloh.

„Fostering Innovation. Unlocking Potential.“ Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the award ceremony honoring recipient Nechemia (“Chemi”) Peres will be held as an online event on October 28, 2021. The livestream will begin at 11:00 a.m. CEST.

In June 2021, a virtual event was held to discuss how the economic potential of innovative start-ups by migrants in Germany can be better leveraged.

Innovation is crucial to prosperity, and to solving the urgent societal problems of our time. However, Germany needs more innovative capacity if it wants to continue to keep pace with other countries and regions across the globe – particularly with regard to cutting-edge technologies. A Bertelsmann Stiftung study examining good practices worldwide shows how fostering innovative capacity to increase competitiveness while advancing societal progress can unlock innovative potential.