Events

"Taito.ai’s whose name translates to "skill" in Finnish, positions itself as a scalable, AI-powered solution that enables continuous feedback and coaching on employee performance.

Dutch healthtech startup OASYS NOW won the Slush 100 startup competition, and is on a mission to connect patients to better treatments.

Food Ingredients Europe is just one week away in Frankfurt, and it promises to be a significant event for both F&B professionals and innovative startups in the food ingredients sector. We spoke with Yannick Verry, Brand Director of Food Ingredients, to preview what makes this event unique and what attendees can expect. What sets Food Ingredients Europe apart from other global food and nutrition innovation events? Fi Europe is unique as Europe’s premier event dedicated exclusively to food ingredients. It is part of a global series with ten Fi events across the world. As the flagship event in Europe, it draws leading industry players and top experts. The event highlights the critical role of the ingredient supply chain—a pivotal stage between raw production and manufacturing—where much of a product’s nutritional value is developed. What emerging trends in food ingredients can attendees look forward to exploring? While many trends reveal themselves on-site, several key themes are expected to shape this year’s event: How do new spaces like the expanded Food Technology area and the Petfood Suppliers Hub address industry demands? How will the new Tasting Bar enhance engagement between exhibitors and attendees? The Tasting Bar brings an interactive experience to Fi Europe. As an ingredient show, it can be hard for attendees to imagine the taste an ingredient can deliver. By sampling finished products that feature these ingredients, buyers get a clearer sense of their flavour and potential applications. Are there any standout projects or breakthrough innovations to watch for? Fi Europe brings innovation from all sides, with both big corporations and smaller companies unveiling groundbreaking concepts. Products launched at the event often reach shelves within 3 to 4 years, positioning Fi Europe as essential for exploring food’s future. What role does Fi Europe play in fostering industry partnerships and opportunities? Fi Europe is a key meeting point for the industry, bringing together manufacturers, suppliers, startups, and organisations to foster collaborations. Key areas like country pavilions and specialised commodity sectors offer targeted networking opportunities. In addition, platforms such as EIT Food Accelerator give startups valuable exposure, helping to strengthen the overall food innovation ecosystem. What’s in store for startups at FI this year ? This year, the Fi Europe Startup Challenge will showcase 20 finalists competing in categories such as plant-based solutions or digital services. The winners will be revealed on Tuesday. The competition offers startups valuable exposure, networking with industry leaders, and the chance to connect with potential partners. It helps them accelerate their growth in the food and beverages sector. For a great overview of the competition check out the 2024 Fi Europe Startup Challenge eMag. Additionally, you can find out who the finalists are this year here. How is Food Ingredients Europe working toward sustainability and environmental responsibility? Fi Europe has taken several steps toward sustainability, including: Environmental Initiatives: Social Initiatives: If you are a startup exhibiting at a Food trade show soon, check out our top tips here to make the most of your experience !

If you’re considering exhibiting at a future trade show, the insights shared by exhibitors at SIAL Paris 2024 can be incredibly valuable. They offer their advice based on their overall experiences as exhibitors and during their pitch sessions in front of a jury.  Here are some key takeaways to help you maximize your experience: Torg: Plan ahead Start your planning well in advance. Create a to-do list and a timeline based on insights from previous events to streamline your preparation. Avoid relying too heavily on external logistics, as managing these can be challenging if you’re not experienced. Ensure that everything is organized and in place to meet your needs. Pitching tips: Keep your pitch short and focused. If you have multiple products or topics, concentrate on one and explore it in-depth within 90 seconds. Use minimal text in your presentations. This helps maintain the audience’s attention on your message rather than distracting them with written content. Lebrin Cbd: Be spontaneous Balance preparation with spontaneity. While practicing your pitch is important, over-rehearsing can create unnecessary pressure and dissatisfaction. Allow yourself to connect more genuinely with your audience by going with the flow during your presentation. VgFryer: Stay proactive Engage actively with attendees and maintain communication with your contacts even after the event. Being persistent and keeping an optimistic outlook can help you foster lasting connections that extend beyond the trade show. Freshjt: Engage through experience Let your products speak for themselves by allowing visitors to sample them before explaining their features. This approach keeps attendees engaged and encourages interaction. Remember that trade shows are about sharing experiences and discovering market opportunities, not just selling products. Networking tips: Create a list of key exhibitors that match your target customer profile to visit during your free hours at the exhibition. While some exhibitors may not have their purchasing or business development managers present, their sales representatives can provide valuable contact information for future connections. Pitching tips: Bring your products to your pitch. If possible, allow attendees in the front rows to try them out to enhance engagement. Avoid technical jargon and focus on key values such as innovation and unique production technology. Most attendees may not fully grasp complex information in just 1-2 minutes. Credits : Biz Today If you’re planning to attend a Food trade show, don’t miss our latest article on maximizing your ROI at these industry gatherings !

For founders, investors, and innovators, Slush 2024 is certainly a standout event, bringing together the brightest minds in tech. With a series of fresh features aimed at building deeper connections and fostering meaningful conversations, Slush continues its mission of elevating the startup ecosystem. Aino Bergius, Slush’s CEO, highlights for Sesamers how the event significantly adapts every year to meet the evolving needs of founders and investors. This year, Slush 2024 generally focuses on a few key areas: enhanced investor access, mentoring, sustainability, and inclusivity. Here’s what you can look forward to in Helsinki on November 20-21, 2024. The Theme of Slush 2024: Metamorphosis This year, Slush has chosen “Metamorphosis” as its theme — eventually a fitting choice for an industry defined by constant change. In the spirit of transformation, Slush 2024 aims to explore how startups can adapt, evolve, and thrive in today’s fast-paced tech landscape. Aino Bergius shares that the theme reflects “the dynamic nature of tech and the journey every founder undergoes.” Doubling Down on Founder Focus Slush has always been about connecting founders and investors, and 2024 is no exception. “We’re committed to being the most founder-focused event in the world,” Bergius says. This commitment is evident in the Investor Office Hours, which have doubled in capacity. Startups can meet investors from leading firms like Index Ventures, 500 Global, and Playfair, making the event one of the year’s top networking hubs for founder-investor meetings. Mentoring opportunities have also expanded, allowing founders to connect with experienced speakers and industry experts. Bergius notes that these sessions are designed to “ensure conversations continue long after the stage talks end,” making Slush not just an event, but a springboard for lasting connections. A High-Level Investor Program For venture capitalists, Slush 2024 offers an exclusive lineup of limited partners (LPs), managing assets totaling over $6 trillion. Investor Day returns to its roots at the Cable Factory, creating a unique setting for high-level conversations among investors. Bergius says, “Investor Day is designed to facilitate the most relevant investor-to-investor discussions.” With LP Lounges, roundtables, and one-on-one mentoring, the day is structured to bring out the best insights and opportunities for attendees. Adapting to AI and Climate Trends At Slush 2024 The Slush stage program unquestionably keeps a pulse on the latest tech trends, with this year’s discussions diving into AI, machine learning, and climate tech. In 2023, investments in AI and climate tech took a significant share of the capital in European tech, with AI companies capturing 11% and climate tech 27%. Bergius mentions that the stage will host prominent figures, including Chris Malachowsky of NVIDIA and Thomas Wolf from Hugging Face, both bringing insights into the future of tech. “Slush is hyper-focused on fostering a radically positive culture around entrepreneurship,” she adds, underscoring the event’s mission to drive impactful innovation. Enhanced Matchmaking: The Key to Making the Right Connections Slush’s matchmaking platform has always been a crowd favorite, and 2024 introduces even more robust tools. Designed to connect founders and investors, the platform now offers a unified view of meeting requests, along with smart recommendations for potential connections. With over 25,000 one-on-one meetings expected, Slush undoubtedly has raised the bar for efficient, meaningful networking at scale. Sustainability at the Core of Slush 2024 In a strong push toward sustainability, Slush 2024 introduces multiple green initiatives. From a partnership with Supercritical to fully offset the event’s carbon footprint, to 35 staffed recycling stations, the event prioritizes minimizing its environmental impact. Bergius mentions, “We’re proud to fully offset flights and serve vegetarian and vegan food,” adding that Slush’s ultimate goal is to empower founders to create global change. These initiatives make Slush not only a tech event but also a forward-thinking model for sustainable event practices. Slush’s Diversity and Inclusion Commitment Aino Bergius brings Slush’s dedication to diversity and inclusion, especially noting the impact of over 1,500 volunteers who help create an inclusive environment. Slush’s Code of Conduct and on-site professionals surely provide a safe and respectful atmosphere for everyone attending. “We’re committed to continually making Slush and the startup ecosystem a better, more inclusive, and safer place to work and build companies,” she says. 300 Side Events At Slush 2024: There’s Something for Everyone With over 300 side events, Slush 2024 indeed provides ample opportunities for attendees to network, celebrate, and engage with other founders and industry leaders. From parties to industry discussions, there’s a variety of activities tailored to different interests, ensuring that each guest finds a niche where they can connect and grow. Final Advice for First-Timers For those new to Slush, Bergius recommends defining your primary goals and planning accordingly. “Your Slush experience starts well before you touch down in Helsinki,” she advises. Setting up a packed yet intentional schedule is key, as the event is an immersive journey that certainly includes everything from professional growth to cultural experiences. So get ready, Helsinki is calling, and Slush 2024 promises to deliver a transformative experience for founders and investors alike. Want to stay ahead in the event industry? Follow Sesamers on LinkedIn and Instagram, and subscribe to our newsletters for the latest insights, tips, and event news.

Heading to MIF(Made in France) Expo next week, November 10-13th, Paris Porte de Versailles – and looking to dive straight into the trends defining the future of food & beverages? Streamline your visit with this curated list of must-see startups:  Food Plant-based alternatives Functional foods Spicy products Anti-waste Socially-engaged foods Low-glycemic index options Better-for-you spreads Drinks Pre- and probiotic drinks Botanical drinks Solid drinks Responsible wine If you’re interested in a more tailored startup itinerary focused on specific topics or sub-trends with additional startup recommendations, feel free to reach out! I’m actively sourcing startups and can quickly create a custom plan for you. Just contact me at sandra@sesamers.com. 

As a tech event media deeply rooted in the startup ecosystem, Sesamers stays on the pulse of events that drive the future of business innovation. This September, we were thrilled to organize the B2B Rocks World Pitch Contest as part of B2B Rocks 2024. The event that brought together startup founders, investors, and industry experts dedicated to advancing B2B innovation. Here, we’ll recap the highlights of the event and dig into why pitch competitions like this are essential for startups. What is B2B Rocks? B2B Rocks has been a go-to event for startups in the B2B space, offering a platform for founders and executives to exchange strategies, insights, and innovations to drive business growth. Held in Paris, the 2024 event maintained its reputation for high-quality networking and cutting-edge content from the heart of the B2B ecosystem. This year Sesamers were organizing the B2B Rocks World Pitch Contest, which saw a pool of talented startups compete for recognition, investor attention, and valuable feedback. Hosted on our platform, app.sesamers.com, we managed the communications, from attracting applications to selecting 10 finalists and preparing their pitches, with the event brought to life by our CEO, Ben Costantini. This contest wasn’t just a competition; it was a launchpad for startups looking to gain momentum in a competitive market. Highlights from B2B Rocks 2024 The event was packed with exciting sessions that covered everything from scaling customer acquisition to the future of enterprise tech. Here’s a breakdown of some of the key sessions. Mastering Growth Strategies A standout panel focused on growth strategies for B2B companies, highlighting the importance of data-driven decision-making, building effective sales funnels, and aligning marketing efforts. Top CEOs and CMOs from high-growth companies shared actionable tips on scaling without compromising product quality or customer experience. Tech Innovation in B2B SaaS One of the most anticipated sessions was on technological innovation within SaaS platforms. Industry leaders discussed how AI, automation, and advanced analytics transform how B2B companies serve their clients, offering personalized experiences at scale. The conversation also touched on product-market fit and how startups can accelerate innovation cycles in a competitive market. Investor Perspective: What B2B Startups Need to Succeed Investors took to the stage to provide their insights on what they look for when evaluating B2B startups. Among the top factors were strong market potential, a clear path to profitability, and visionary leadership. Investors emphasized that today’s funding landscape seeks sustainable growth and a solid business model over quick wins. Why Should Startups Join Pitch Competitions? In a rapidly evolving tech landscape, startup competitions like the one at B2B Rocks offer startups much more than just a stage. Why every ambitious startup should consider joining similar events? Key Takeaways for Startups Founders B2B Rocks 2024 left us with several crucial lessons for B2B startups looking to scale: Why Events Like B2B Rocks Matter for Startups At Sesamers, we believe that events like B2B Rocks are critical for fostering innovation and growth in the B2B tech ecosystem. The knowledge, connections, and inspiration from such gatherings help shape the next generation of market leaders. As a media platform, our mission is to provide our readers with up-to-date insights on the most impactful trends and breakthroughs in tech. B2B Rocks 2024 offered cutting-edge content and exemplified the collaborative spirit necessary for startups to succeed in today’s competitive landscape. Stay tuned to Sesamers Linkedin as we continue to bring you exclusive recaps, interviews, and insights from the tech events that matter most!

This year's World Summit AI (WSAI) not only set the stage for global thought leaders to discuss the most pertinent subjects in industry right now, but it also served as a marketplace of ideas where startups from around the globe showcased their technologies.

Returning to Amsterdam for its eighth edition, the World Summit AI opened this year with another awe-inspiring, eye-opening welcome video. Exciting music boomed across the hall as a variety of famous film clips addressing AI flashed across the large stage screens. The video culminated with a clip of Sam Altman delivering his now-iconic response to the potential dangers and threats posed by technology developed by OpenAI, a topic first addressed in February last year. The Spectacular Opening of World Summit AI 2024 “My worst fears are that we cause significant harm to the world […] and that could happen in a lot of different ways […] I think if this technology goes wrong, it could go quite wrong. But we try to be quite clear-eyed about what the downside case is and what the work is that we have to do to mitigate that.” — Sam Altman This blend of both wonder and alarm set the tone for the two-day event, where thought leaders from around the globe gathered to discuss industry developments in Generative AI. After a strong opening by Sarah Porter, founder of Inspired Minds, the headliner ‘Black Box’ stage featured talks from some of the most notable and relevant industry players today. Mark Heaps, Groq’s Chief Tech Evangelist and VP of Brand, spoke on the potential of LPUs (Language Processing Units), Darren Hardman, Microsoft’s Corporate VP of Enterprise & Industry, addressed business transformation in the AI era, and PepsiCo’s Executive VP of Strategy & Transformation, Dr. Athina Kanioura, shared her perspective on how robotics will transform the consumer packaged goods industry — just to name a few. Industry Leaders Share AI Innovations and Insights The event boasted a packed schedule, with multiple talks, panels, fireside chats, and workshops running in parallel. This year, participants could choose from over ten unique topic tracks across both days, tailoring their experience to the most relevant content. Tracks covered a wide range of subjects, from Humani-AI Convergence, exploring questions like what it means to be human in the age of AI and safeguarding fundamental human rights, to deep dives into Generative AI & LLMs, Money AI, Responsible AI & Governance, and Intelligent Health. Other key tracks, such as Economy, Employment & Equity, explored potential new economic models. On day two, the focus shifted to Accelerating AI Adoption, Deep Dive Tech Talks, Managing Cybersecurity, Privacy & Risk, and AI for Good. Key Tracks: Exploring AI’s Role Across Industries Two new tracks grabbed significant attention this year. The Mediaverse track explored maximizing gaming content relevancy through automation and how AI is bringing marketing to life by creating ‘sentient brands.’ Janina Lorenci, founder of MAIA Art Agency, addressed how AI is challenging our traditional notions of originality and the artist’s integrity. Lorenci, leaving the crows with her quote of “A paintbrush is not biased, AI is”, also hosted a stunning gallery exhibition promoting the collaboration between local Amsterdam creatives and AI tools. A key takeaway from this track was that while AI is pushing the boundaries of art and creativity, ethical considerations must guide its application in these areas. Additionally, the “Moonshot Mothership” track focused on AI and space exploration. Alicia Kavelaars, Co-Founder and CTO of OffWorld, delivered a keynote speech on AI and the new space age, inspiring the audience with a vision of how AI will turn science fiction into reality through its critical contribution to creating autonomous robotic workforces capable of working in extreme environments, such as underground mines or space, with minimal human intervention. Ethical AI and the Road to Global Regulation A clear message from this year’s World Summit AI was the growing emphasis on ethical AI and responsible development. Jeannette Gorzala, CEO & Founder of Act.AI.Now, stressed her concern that Europe’s attention towards the prevalent rise in cybercrime and malicious acts with AI has faded as the topic of the EU’s AI Act dragged on this year. Similarly, in a headline talk on the threats posed by AI by Section Chief in the Science & Technology branch of the FBI, Katie Noyes, an uncomfortable crowd sat, confronted, by the concerning rise in abusive and exploitative content created by genAI.  A related headliner panel on this topic, with experts across industry and academia, addressed the question of if a global consensus on AI regulation will ever be reached. The key takeaway was that while global AI regulation may be difficult to achieve in the short term, region-specific regulatory frameworks can be a stepping stone toward a broader consensus on AI safety. The first two days of World Summit AI 2024 showcased how deeply AI is influencing every facet of our lives. From transforming business models to redefining creative industries, the event highlighted that AI’s potential is vast, but so are the responsibilities that come with it. Whether through enhancing cybersecurity or pushing the limits of space exploration, AI is becoming the driving force behind human and organizational evolution. The challenge ahead is clear: businesses and leaders must embrace AI not only for automation but as a tool that amplifies human creativity and innovation. Core Takeaways from the Event What about the Startup Scene? As always, Sesamers had their eyes on all things startup at the event, especially in the Startups, Scaleups, & Unicorns track. The WSAI startup cohort doubled in size this year, moving to a larger, dedicated floor space with over 30 startups in attendance. The City of Amsterdam continued to impress, showcasing the creativity and quality of its startup scene. Startups pitching ranged across industries, from EdTech with Digital Bricks and GreenTech from Antfarm, to creative city planning from Playground City, and Swipework, a Gen Z-targeted job recruiting platform. Curious for more? Check out our article on the Amsterdam startup scene here.

An Overview of FoodTech Innovations and Industry Insights NutrEvent 2024 brought together industry leaders, researchers, and innovative startups to explore the latest advancements in nutrition and food technology. Sesamers attended the event to gather critical insights and trends shaping the sector to share NutrEvent 2024 recap. This year’s edition showcased a dynamic atmosphere filled with expert knowledge and collaboration among participants focused on addressing current challenges and exploring future opportunities. Key Insights from FoodTech Startup Pitches at NutrEvent 2024 Key Trends and Topics Covered The startup pitch sessions highlighted several emerging trends that are influencing the industry:  Regarding the development stage of these startups, most of them were focused on finalizing regulatory aspects while actively seeking funding between €1 million and €2 million, as well as partners for application development. Promising FoodTech Startups That Caught Our Attention Among the innovative startups that presented their solutions, four particularly caught our attention: Top Investor Questions for FoodTech Entrepreneurs in 2024 During the pitch sessions, several questions frequently arise, highlighting key requirements and evaluation criteria for entrepreneurs. These included:  Major Challenges Facing the FoodTech Industry Throughout the conferences we attended at NutrEvent 2024, key challenges were highlighted. Below are the most significant issues discussed. Investment Landscape in FoodTech The food tech sector is currently experiencing significant challenges in securing investments, particularly for seed funding. B2B companies are attracting the majority of investments, while B2C startups find it increasingly difficult to penetrate the market. Disillusionment with Alternative Proteins There has been noticeable disappointment around alternative proteins, driven by high costs and unmet consumer expectations regarding taste. This has led to a decline in investments and growing skepticism within the sector. Investors expressed frustration, particularly with the slow pace of progress in fields like cellular agriculture, which may take up to 20 years to mature—far too long for funds looking to see returns within a 5-year window. The Shift to Nutrient-Dense Solutions In the current investment climate, venture capitalists are prioritizing solutions that promise mid-term profitability and align with evolving consumer demands. While alternative proteins that pass the critical taste test still hold some appeal, the real opportunity lies in delivering affordable, nutrient-dense food options for the mass market. Investors are keen to see startups innovate in this space to regain confidence and stimulate growth in the industry. Regulatory Aspects Navigating the regulatory landscape for novel foods poses significant challenges, particularly in entering the European market. Startups often seek alternative markets, such as the U.S. or GCC, to mitigate these hurdles. Consumer Acceptance Consumer acceptance poses a considerable challenge in the food tech landscape. Many meat protein alternatives that hit the market have fallen short of expectations, particularly in terms of taste. This underscores a critical point: some companies may neglect to prioritize flavor in their product development, which can significantly impact market uptake. Moreover, the perception of ultra-processed foods complicates matters. Many new protein alternatives are processed but viewed unfavorably by consumers who associate processed foods with being unhealthy. The industry must educate consumers on the nutritional benefits of these products, with clear labeling essential for fostering understanding and trust in their health implications. Explore the upcoming tech events and gain valuable insights from the forefront of technology and innovation. Don’t miss out on your chance to be part of the future of tech — there’s always something exciting happening!

Attending a food and beverage trade show can be a turning point for your startup, offering a prime opportunity to showcase your innovations — whether food products or Foodtech solutions — and connect with key industry players.  But it’s important to remember that food fairs are more than just a sales opportunity—they’re about creating an experience. Attendees engage all their senses, tasting, seeing, and learning about your offerings in real time. This makes how you present yourself as crucial as what you’re showcasing.  Proper preparation is essential to avoid missing out on potential leads and partnerships.  Whether it’s your first food and beverage trade show or you’re looking to elevate your game, a solid strategy is key! Pre-Show: Preparation Is a Key Do your research Identify who’s attending, target the buyers and partners you want to engage, and understand how your products or technologies fit into the market. Be clear about the specific problems you solve for your target audience, so they can see the value in stopping by your booth. Reach out to previous startup exhibitors and ask for their tips and advice. Set a clear strategy and goals To help guide your strategy, consider these key questions: Before the event, define specific and measurable objectives to stay focused and track your success. Setting clear, quantifiable targets helps you evaluate your performance post-show and ensures you’re working toward concrete outcomes.  Examples of measurable goals include:  Promote in advance Don’t wait for the show to promote your presence. Share on social media, send invites, and include the event in your email marketing. Tag the organizers to increase visibility. Example from startup The Crushi who promoted their presence at SIAL and Horecava on Linkedin : Prepare your booth Design a visually appealing display. People eat with their eyes first, so make sure your booth is neat and showcases your products beautifully. Consider showing raw ingredients and clear packaging to attract visitors. Example with S’Noods at Summer Fancy Food Show 2024: Get your materials ready Ensure you have all necessary materials: business cards, brochures, and promotional items. A landing page with a QR code to access product info can be a cost-effective alternative to printed materials. However, at food trade shows, many still prefer business cards and printed materials, so keep that in mind. Staff training Train your team to handle objections and maintain a positive attitude throughout the event. They should be prepared to highlight your unique selling points and engage effectively with attendees. During The Show: Make a Strong Impact Stay positive and engaging  If you receive negative feedback, don’t take it personally. Keep smiling and stay approachable, even when you’re tired — positive energy is contagious. Expect crowds Trade shows are busy, so prepare for a constant flow of visitors. Stand, don’t sit, and be ready to engage potential leads as they walk by. Make it a feast for the senses Engage attendees visually and with tastings, if possible. Keep your booth clean and products well-presented. Hands-on demos can capture attention effectively. Safety first Since attendees may not be familiar with your company and could be cautious about food products from startups, it’s crucial to demonstrate safety. Using utensils and providing pre-portioned samples will help ensure hygiene and build trust with potential customers. Be interactive and creative Even though it’s a business food and beverage trade show, people are here to enjoy themselves too! Food is fun, so tap into that by adding interactive elements like demos, tastings, or contests. Engaging visitors with a memorable experience will not only capture attention but also make your booth stand out from the rest. Le Magicien Bio at SIAL Paris 2022 featured costumed performers in magician attire, captivating magic tricks, and enchanting decorations: 📸: Le Magicien Bio Partner with other startups Network with complementary exhibitors and share leads to expand your potential client base and foster future partnerships. Track your leads  Ensure you capture contact details of interested buyers—business cards, notebooks, or lead capture tools. Don’t miss any follow-up opportunities. Post-Show: Follow Through To Maximize ROI Prompt follow-up Reach out to leads within a week. Your first email should thank them, offer further engagement opportunities, and extend any special offers. Focus on building the relationship, not hard-selling. Evaluate your success Review your performance against the goals you set. How many leads did you generate? What feedback did you receive? Use this to improve your approach for future shows. Keep the momentum going  Share a recap of your trade show experience on social media, thanking everyone who visited your booth. Stay active in engaging potential clients and partners from the event.

NutrEvent, the leading European platform for nutrition innovation and collaboration, is set to showcase a range of emerging trends this year.