Programme & Speakers
Stay tuned as we bring you key highlights, inspiring speakers, and engaging sessions to shape this year's official Congress programme!
Preliminary Programme available
''Building a Better World''
The official business programme will explore the future of lotteries in an evolving world. Reflecting EL’s core values—forward-thinking, sustainability, and integrity—the sessions will focus on responsible innovation, regulatory affairs and the sustainability of lotteries.
The Congress will also feature the EL Advertising Awards, recognising excellence in lottery marketing.
Welcome Address
🎤 Nicolas Henchoz, Founding Director, EPFL+ECAL Lab, the Design Research Centre of the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (CH)
As an engineer, TV anchor, researcher, art director and manager, Nicolas has developed a unique vision of innovation, blending cultural creativity, scientific practices, and human observation to foster sustainable adoption in innovation. Current research addresses critical topics such as human engagement in digital experiences, trust in AI with impact in health, culture, services, and the environment.
His projects, performed with his team of designers, engineers and psychologists, have led to academic contributions, awards and implemented solutions with companies and public institutions. He has also curated more than 30 exhibitions worldwide - American Institute of Architecture (NYC), Royal College of Art (London), Musée des Arts décoratifs (Paris) and Harvard University.
Nicolas is also the co-founder of GAMI, the Global Alliance for Media Innovation and has been honoured as a Chevalier des Arts et des Lettres by the French minister for culture and communication.
Inspiring Keynote Speakers
🎤 Count Herman Van Rompuy, President Emeritus of the European Council
Herman Van Rompuy was elected as the first full-time President of the European Council in November 2009, taking office when the Lisbon Treaty came into force. In 2012, he was re-elected for a second term, running until November 2014. He is now professor at the Universities of Leuven and Louvain, the College of Europe in Brussels and Sciences Po in Paris, and he is the President of the European Policy Centre.
At the time of his first election, Van Rompuy was Prime Minister of Belgium. Prior to that he had served in Belgium as Speaker of the House of Representatives (2007-2008) and in several government positions, including as Vice-prime Minister and Minister of Budget (1993-1999).
A former economist at the National Bank of Belgium, he began his political career in 1973 as national vice-president of his party’s youth movement. He was president of the Flemish Christian Democrats (1988-1995) and Member of Parliament (1995-2009). Herman was ennobled to Count in July 2015.
🎤 Simonetta Sommaruga, Former President of the Swiss Confederation, President of the Board of the Equal-Salary Foundation
Simonetta is a visionary leader with a deep commitment to social justice, equality, and environmental sustainability. During her 12-year tenure in the highest office of the federal government, serving as Minister of Justice and Home Affairs, Minister of Environment, Transport, Energy and Communications and twice as President of the Swiss Confederation, she steered Switzerland through extremely challenging times, like the refugee crisis in 2015 and the COVID-Pandemic in 2020, she led groundbreaking reforms that advanced equal pay and increased the representation of women in corporate leadership.
Currently, President of the Board of the EQUAL-SALARY Foundation, Mrs Simonetta Sommaruga leverages her extensive experience to champion equal opportunities for all, driving meaningful change across industries. Her leadership is characterized by strategic insight, a profound understanding of social issues and a firm dedication to creating a fairer world.
🎤 Laurence Rochat, Olympic Bronze medalist and brand Ambassador, Audermars Piguet
Laurence Rochat, a passionate skier, mastered endurance both on and off the slopes. Balancing a dual career in sports and business, she held several leadership roles before becoming an Audemars Piguet Brand Ambassador.
In 2002, she defied limits to win an Olympic bronze. Embracing teamwork, precision, and adaptability, she now channels these values into Gear Up for Life, her new venture.
Bridging two seemingly opposite worlds, Laurence will share how passion, perseverance, and transformation fuel success in both elite sports and business at the EL Congress.
Meet the Moderator - Mélanie Freymond
Mélanie is a Swiss journalist and presenter with over two decades of experience across television, radio and live events. She has hosted entertainment programmes and numerous platforms throughout Switzerland and beyond, such as the Swiss Economic Forum, Watches and Wonders, and the Swiss Film Prize. Mélanie currently presents The Swiss Voice Tour, Agriculture Durable, and Votre Argent. Known for her engaging and professional presence, we look forward to welcoming Mélanie as the moderator at this year's EL Congress.
Trade Show
A Trade Show will bring together EL suppliers to showcase their cutting-edge lottery products and services. Participants will have the chance to discover the latest innovations in lottery technology, marketing, and responsible gaming solutions.
The Trade Show takes place alongside the official Congress business programme in the Kursaal.
If you are interested in being an exhibitor, please send an email to info@european-lotteries.org
EL Advertising Awards 2025
Your chance to shine!
The bi-annual EL Advertising Awards is a prestigious contest celebrating excellence in lottery marketing and recognising advertising campaigns in the EL membership. The submission period is open until 30 June 2025.
The winners of four award categories will be announced during a special ceremony as part of the official Congress programme (16 September). The award for the ''Best of the Best'' - the top winner out of the four categories will be presented during the closing celebration on the same day.
Unforgettable evening events
🏛️Sunday, September 14 | Welcome to Switzerland
Kick off the Congress in style with a welcome reception & dinner at the Kursaal hosted by EL. With breathtaking views of the Alps, this sets the perfect tone for the days ahead. (Dress code: Business casual).
🥂 Monday, September 15 | EL Level I Partners’ Exclusive Dinner - Hosted by Scientific Games and IGT
A VIP evening of gourmet dining, refined ambiance and great networking opportunities. Location to be revealed. (Dress code: Formal).
🎭 Tuesday, September 16 | Closing Celebration
Experience a spectacular evening of entertainment hosted by Loterie Romande & Swisslos to celebrate the closing of the Congress. (Dress Code: Smart Casual).
Social programme
During your time in Bern, there will be the opportunity to explore the historic city with its charming medieval streets and iconic Zytglogge clock tower. You can find our more about what to do here.
For accompanying persons, a dedicated programme is available, offering a variety of activities to ensure a memorable experience during your stay. Discover the programme here.