Intergeo: from geodetic roots to global innovation hub

The DVW – Gesellschaft für Geodäsie, Geoinformation und Landmanagement (German Association for Geodesy, Geoinformation and Land Management ) – has been the driving force behind the organization of this event, now recognized globally under the brand name Intergeo, since 1995. Prior to this, the event was known as the Deutscher Geodätentag, with origins tracing back to the first General Assembly of the Deutscher Geometerverein in 1872.

From 4–8 August 1925, the first Deutsche Geodätische Woche (German Geodetic Week) took place in Cologne. Topics from the fields of activity of the surveying engineer at the first edition included ‘The Cadastre and its Continuation’, ‘Modern Urban Surveying’, ‘Urban Expansion and Land Policy’ and – with regard to the property taxes assessed by the Prussian Cadastre Administration – ‘The Imperial Valuation Law’.

When the inaugural Intergeo opened its doors at Dortmund’s Westfalenhallen exhibition centre on 23 August 1995, few could have anticipated the remarkable trajectory it would follow. While the geodesists’ conference was already a key fixture within the sector, the trade fair – which at that time hosted just 185 exhibitors – remained relatively modest in scale. Nevertheless, emerging trends such as GPS and navigation systems, fuelled by advances in satellite technologies, played a defining role in shaping that first event.

Since then, Intergeo has evolved significantly, becoming a structured platform that addresses the dynamic needs and advancements in geodesy, geoinformation and land management. Over time, the convergence of the trade fair and conference has facilitated deeper engagement and dialogue within the industry. Notably, discussions now extend beyond product offerings, focusing on comprehensive solutions and process chains that cater to the increasingly integrated nature of geographical technologies. Many sectors now seek holistic, location-based solutions, reflecting a broadening industry perspective.

Intergeo has been instrumental in fostering this exchange, offering a platform where professionals from various industries converge. The event’s growing international scope is reflected in its exhibitor and attendee demographics; while only 15% of exhibitors hailed from abroad in 1995, today more than 40% represent international companies. Visitor numbers have also become more diverse, with approximately 45% of attendees now coming from outside Germany. This internationalization has helped Intergeo to solidify its reputation as the world’s leading trade fair in its field, bringing together industry leaders and innovators from around the globe.

In 2024, Intergeo has firmly established itself as the global hub for geospatial technology, providing a platform for public administrators, scientists, policymakers and business leaders to leverage geo-IT data and solutions. The event remains pivotal for showcasing current trends and technological advancements, underscoring its role as the premier networking forum in the sector.

Looking ahead, Intergeo’s legacy continues to expand. Hinte Expo & Conference has managed the trade fair since its inception, but from 2028 the event will transition to Frankfurt under the organization of Mesago Messe Frankfurt. DVW will maintain its role in overseeing the accompanying conference, ensuring its status as a cornerstone of the geospatial community. In the interim, Intergeo 2025 will take place in Frankfurt from 7–9 October, followed by Munich as the host city from 15–17 September 2026, continuing its tradition as the world’s largest and most influential international event in this domain.