Kapteina Offers Keynote at Business Exchange Hosted by NDC and Open Saxony in Chemnitz

On May 5, 2025, Dr. Benedikt D. S. Kapteina, postdoctoral researcher at the Chair of Business Administration – especially Responsible Management – at the International Institute (IHI) Zittau, TU Dresden, was invited to speak at the Open Business Exchange in Chemnitz. The event was co-organized by the Network for Democracy and Courage (NDC) and the Open Saxony (OSX) initiative. In his keynote titled “Corporate Values as a Success Factor,” Kapteina explored how value-driven business leadership not only contributes to economic stability but also plays a vital role in strengthening democratic structures.

Dr. Kapteina’s research at IHI Zittau focuses on the role of businesses in democracy, Corporate Political Responsibility, and responsible corporate governance. In his talk, he emphasized that values such as diversity, transparency, and social engagement are becoming increasingly important as strategic assets. He urged companies to take an active role in protecting democratic institutions and fostering open societies. “Economic success and social responsibility are not opposites—they increasingly depend on one another,” Kapteina noted.

The event brought together representatives from a wide range of Saxon businesses to discuss the role of companies in democratic societies and to collaboratively develop initiatives that support democracy. The Open Business Exchange offers a unique space for dialogue, reflection, and inspiration.

The Network for Democracy and Courage (NDC) has been promoting civic education, democracy, and strong civil society structures for over 20 years—particularly in rural and structurally disadvantaged regions. Open Saxony serves as a platform for fostering an open, diverse, and democratic business culture in Saxony. It connects committed entrepreneurs, encourages dialogue on corporate responsibility, and supports joint strategies to counter anti-democratic tendencies.