The spectrum of possible involvement by business and industry in EXPO 2000 ranges from the role of an exclusive “World Partner” or product or project partner to direct participation as a licensee or concessionaire. A comprehensive “Partner Handbook” describes the various possibilities in detail.

Working groups with internationally mixed memberships have formulated a concept for each individual theme. The Swiss dramaturge Francois Confino, renowned for his outstanding work for the World Exposition in Seville, has been selected by EXPO 2000 to ensure a homogenous design of the Thematic Area. Detailed concepts for eleven individual themes are to be completed by the beginning of 1998 and then merged to form a single harmonious exhibition.

The Thematic Area, which will cover an area of about 100,000 square meters, is to include four exhibition halls. Just under half of their area is reserved for exhibits; sufficient space will be made available for foyers, rest areas and information facilities. A theme-oriented directional system will link the exhibition halls and guide visitors through the Thematic Area. The goal is to achieve a balanced mix of entertainment and information. Visitors will be encouraged to play an active role - interactivity between exhibits and human beings is an overriding aim of the designers of the Thematic Area.