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.
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