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Bankflip emerged from the combined expertise of co-founders Álvaro Mancilla, Gabriel Esteban, and Honorio Marín, each bringing a unique set of skills and a shared passion for fintech innovation. Álvaro, the CEO, has over a decade of experience in Tech startups, especially in FinTech and EdTech. Gabriel, the CTO, began his tech journey at age 13, and Honorio, the CPO, offers a strong technical and entrepreneurial background. The trio first collaborated at Goin, a B2C savings app, where they discovered the transformative power of FinTech. Their collective experience and vision led to the founding of Bankflip—a startup dedicated to revolutionizing financial services through permission-based data platforms. Streamlining FinTech Document Processing Bankflip addresses the complexity of collecting and processing documents for loans, credit, and mortgages in FinTech. Their solution simplifies and speeds up this process, enabling secure, real-time data management with user consent. By interfacing with public authorities, Bankflip streamlines document collection, such as tax returns and income verification, boosting efficiency and cutting costs. This automation increases conversion rates and reduces drop-offs, ensuring a smooth experience for both institutions and users. Competitive Edge in a Crowded Market Bankflip stands out in the competitive FinTech landscape with its extensive data coverage, superior user experience, and robust technological infrastructure. They cover 90% of the market in Spain alone, offering financial institutions a single access point for all required data. Their no-code solutions and intuitive APIs make integration effortless, giving them a competitive edge. According to the founders, “Our biggest competitive advantage is the combination of data/market coverage, user experience, tech robustness, and developer experience.” This unique approach has solidified Bankflip’s position as a leader in the Spanish FinTech market. Growth Strategy and Funding Success Bankflip employs a sales-driven go-to-market strategy, focusing on enterprise and mid-market financial companies. Their emphasis on customer success has enabled them to expand steadily within their client base. After securing two funding rounds—a pre-seed in November 2021 and a Seed round of €2.6M in December 2023—Bankflip is now focused on expanding its customer base in Spain and Portugal. Additionally, they are seeking design partners in France to tailor their solution for the local market, aligning with their long-term goal of becoming the leading pan-European platform for permission-based data processing in financial services. Overcoming Challenges and Seizing Opportunities As Bankflip expands internationally, it faces the challenge of adapting its technology to meet the specific needs of each new market. This involves building connectors with local public authorities and customizing their solutions to handle country-specific regulations. However, the founders view these challenges as opportunities to strengthen their competitive advantage. Bankflip is at the forefront of the digital transformation sweeping the financial sector, where online platforms are increasingly becoming the norm across Europe. By staying ahead of these trends, Bankflip aims to drive the digitalization of financial services, providing innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of the industry. In the coming months, Bankflip will participate in major industry events such as The District, South Summit, and Viva Tech, focusing on expanding its network of customers and investors. With a solid foundation and a clear vision for the future, Bankflip is poised to make a significant impact in the global fintech industry.

S-Tron Shanghai 2024, China’s largest tech innovation event, expects over 12,000 attendees from 20+ countries. Featuring 150 speakers, 2,000 startups, and 1,500 investors, it’s a key platform for entrepreneurs to access vital resources. “We aim to help entrepreneurs succeed by connecting them with innovation resources,” said organizer Sean. This year, S-Tron focuses on fostering collaboration, sparking ideas, and creating opportunities to launch startups onto the global stage. From Slush China to S-Tron The shift from Slush China to S-Tron is a strategic rebranding, but the mission remains the same. Organizers say, “The world needs more connections in the post-pandemic era.” The rebranding reflects a push for a more independent identity while keeping close ties with Slush. S-Tron still aims to foster innovation and global tech entrepreneurship. Dare to Disrupt The theme for S-Tron Shanghai 2024, “Dare to Disrupt,” encourages startups and corporations to challenge the status quo. Organizers say it’s designed to push both large companies and entrepreneurs out of their comfort zones. This theme will be central, from keynotes to pitch competitions, urging attendees to embrace disruptive innovation in tech. Balancing Content and Engagement S-Tron Shanghai 2024 is structured to offer a balanced experience between showcasing innovative startups and providing valuable content for all attendees. The event will feature 120 startup booths and four stages dedicated to pitching and sharing insights from industry leaders. “S-Tron’s event is akin to a carnival, ensuring that every attendee can participate in a way they prefer,” the organizers note. This approach fosters a dynamic exchange of ideas, creating an environment where tech innovation can thrive. Beyond the Event S-Tron offers ongoing support for startups, extending its impact beyond the annual event. “We host a variety of ecological activities every month, tailored for startups, large corporations, entrepreneurial communities, and university students,” the organizers highlight. These activities include monthly pitching sessions, innovation community parties, and closed-door forums with industry leaders. By providing continuous support, S-Tron ensures its influence extends well beyond the two-day event, helping startups connect with investors and industry leaders. Empowering Grassroots Innovation Organizing a large-scale innovation event like S-Tron comes with unique challenges, especially in balancing governmental involvement with the needs of the international startup ecosystem. “In China, it’s rare to have events driven by young people and volunteers like ours,” the organizers admit. Despite these challenges, S-Tron has cultivated an independent and vibrant atmosphere, distinguishing itself from other officially organized activities and enhancing its appeal to the global tech community. S-Tron’s Global Aspirations Looking to the future, S-Tron aims to solidify its position as a key hub for global tech innovation. The organizers are committed to maintaining the event’s grassroots nature, driven by youth and volunteers, while also expanding its international reach. “We hope S-Tron will continue as a youth-led event, becoming a key hub for global tech innovation,” they share. With plans to enhance its global presence and continue supporting young entrepreneurs, S-Tron is poised to become one of the most dynamic and engaging innovation events worldwide.

SGH Capital SGH Capital is an investment firm that focuses on deploying capital in early and mid-stage disruptive companies, primarily in the United States and Western Europe. They have a track record of over 130 investments, contributing to the growth of more than 10 unicorns and supporting over 5 companies through initial public offerings (IPOs). SGH Capital emphasizes investing in innovative and transformative companies, aligning with their strategy of identifying and nurturing high-potential ventures. Sector focus: Software, Financial Services, FinTech, E-Commerce, Health Care Round: Early Stage Venture, Late Stage Venture, Seed Total investments: 122 Founding Year: 2014 Notable Investments: Asset Reality, TabTrader, Swan Bitcoin, Codelock, TabTrader

Explore the top 5 venture capital firms in Estonia, key drivers behind the country’s rapid tech growth. This post highlights firms excelling in innovation support and strategic investments, shaping Estonia as a leading tech hub in Europe.

OIW, founded in 2004 by Oslo Business Region, has become a key event in the global startup ecosystem. Its mission is to support Oslo’s growing startups and connect them with public organizations. Celebrating 20 years in 2023, OIW now hosts over 70 events, attracting more than 16,000 attendees worldwide. “What started as a local initiative has grown into a global platform for innovation, collaboration, and sustainability,” an OIW representative shared. Key Highlights from Recent Editions of OIW Oslo Innovation Week fosters a strong sense of community and continuous collaboration. Notable companies like Kahoot!, Oda, No Isolation, and Strise have participated in OIW, contributing to the ecosystem. “Seeing startups that once pitched their ideas now hosting their events is a true testament to the power of this community,” said the OIW team. This growing collaboration has positioned OIW as a platform for emerging leaders and problem-solvers. Themes Driving OIW Each year, Oslo Innovation Week adopts a theme aligned with global innovation trends. The 2024 theme, “Pioneers,” celebrates individuals and organizations pushing the boundaries of innovation. “We engage with the ecosystem daily to ensure our themes resonate with the startup and innovation community. Climate innovation and sustainability have always been core,” an OIW organizer explained. This focus on addressing climate change has been a consistent driver behind OIW’s success. A Global and Industry-Agnostic Event Oslo Innovation Week attracts diverse participants, including startup founders, investors, and public leaders. OIW is industry-agnostic, with events spanning sectors from health and life science research to the blue economy to ClimateTech and SportsTech. 30% of attendees come from outside Norway, reflecting OIW’s growing global presence. “It’s important to engage with international participants to expand Oslo’s reach beyond the Norwegian bubble,” the OIW team noted. International Collaboration and Global Outreach Managed by the Oslo Business Region, Oslo Innovation Week actively engages with the international innovation community. This involves collaboration with embassies, investors, and Nordic neighbors, and attending events in the UK, Germany, and the US to attract talent and investment to Oslo. “This year, we will welcome back a team from Hokkaido, Japan to the program, hosting an event to support initiatives for female entrepreneurship in the Hokkaido prefecture,” an organizer shared. OIW’s international collaborations continue to strengthen its global reputation. Commitment to Sustainability and Diversity Sustainability is central to OIW, with every event supporting at least one United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG). The event has implemented practices like the Zero Waste Takeaway project to reduce waste,” As an umbrella event, we collaborate with over 200 organizers to create sustainable events, promoting vegetarian meals, environmental impact reduction, and providing the City of Oslo’s Climate and Environment Guide for guidance. Additionally, OIW emphasizes diversity and inclusion, requiring gender balance among speakers and hosting DEI workshops, “Last year 52% of all speakers were female. This year, we’ve added a workshop on diversity and inclusion for all event organizers by Diversify, which organizes the  Diversify Nordic Summit, emphasizing the importance of DEI in growing successful companies.” “Our goal is to ensure that every attendee finds value in the event while promoting sustainable and inclusive practices,” stated an organizer. OIW continues to evolve, connecting global innovators with Nordic pioneers and expanding its impact. For more information on Oslo Innovation Week : ➡️ Visit the Oslo Innovation Week program for details on events. ➡️ Sign up for the Oslo Innovation Week newsletter to learn about becoming an OIW event organizer.

Founded in 2015 by Chiara Rota, My Cooking Box is an Italian startup that blends the rich heritage of Italian cuisine with the convenience of modern meal kits. Inspired by foreign visitors’ desire to recreate Italian dishes at home, the startup developed meal kits that allow anyone, regardless of their cooking experience, to easily prepare iconic Italian meals. The Unique Offering: My Cooking Box My Cooking Box is not just another meal kit; it’s a carefully curated experience. Each box contains all the ingredients, perfectly portioned and 100% Made in Italy, to cook a traditional Italian dish. The recipes, crafted by renowned chefs, are designed to be easy to follow, ensuring that anyone can enjoy the rich culinary heritage of Italy in their kitchen. “Our mission is to offer a product that allows people to appreciate the culinary richness of Italy,” says the team. The long shelf-life of the ingredients also adds a practical element, making it convenient for consumers to enjoy a gourmet meal whenever they choose. A Young, Dynamic Team from Bergamo The team behind My Cooking Box operates from Bergamo, a picturesque city near Milan. This young, driven group of professionals is passionate about spreading the flavors of Italy across the globe. Their energy and commitment are key to the brand’s success, as they work tirelessly to innovate and expand the reach of their product. “We want to make a difference and bring our brand to succeed worldwide,” the team explains, showcasing their ambition and dedication. Expanding Horizons: Revenue Models and Market Reach The company’s revenue model is diversified across B2B and B2C channels. Direct-to-consumer sales are driven through its proprietary e-commerce platform and major online marketplaces. On the B2B side, it focuses on partnerships with international supermarket chains and importers, particularly in North America, its largest market. “We are looking to grow the brand and increase awareness,” the team notes, as it sets its sights on expanding into new markets. A Launchpad for Growth for Italian Meal Kit My Cooking Box sees the SIAL Startup Village event as a crucial opportunity to elevate its brand. They aim to connect with key players in the European and U.S. supermarket sectors, securing partnerships that will help them scale. “We expect to gain solid leads from European and U.S. supermarket chains,” the team says, emphasizing the importance of this event in their growth strategy. Showcase Your Brand at SIAL Paris 2024: Fill Out Our Exhibitor Form Today!

Are you passionate about avocados but concerned about food waste? Soilmates turn imperfect avocados into premium, eco-friendly avocado oil, offering a delicious solution to the problem of food waste. By supporting Soilmates, you contribute to reducing food waste while enjoying high-quality avocado oil. The Economic Impact of Food Waste: A $1 Trillion Global Crisis Food waste is a pressing global issue. The UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reports that about 1.3 billion tons of food are wasted annually. Remarkably, around 40% of produce is discarded due to cosmetic imperfections or spoilage. This waste not only harms the environment but also results in economic losses estimated at $1 trillion per year by the World Bank. Addressing these inefficiencies in the food supply chain is crucial. Soilmates: Revolutionizing Avocado Oil Production with Sustainability In 2021, Avocado enthusiast Dave Le Roux and sustainability advocate Sander Breedveld launched Soilmates in Berlin, with a dedication to creating high-quality avocado oil while actively combating food waste. They upcycle avocados rejected for their appearance, transforming them into a product that promotes environmental responsibility. “We tackle food waste by using ‘ugly’ avocados that are perfectly good for consumption,” the team explains. By offering these avocados a second chance, Soilmates supports a circular economy and demonstrates a commitment to sustainable practices. Avocado Oil: A Sustainable Choice Soilmates provides a unique alternative to traditional olive oil. Their avocado oil, available in major supermarkets throughout the Netherlands, combines convenience with environmental values. Unlike olive oil, Soilmates’ product is rich in flavor, has a high smoke point, and is packed with antioxidants. Their goal is to expand across the EU, making their sustainable avocado oil more widely available. A Launchpad for Growth Soilmates’ participation in SIAL Startup Village underscores their commitment to growth and industry leadership. This platform provides valuable opportunities to connect with potential investors and partners, advancing their mission to innovate within the food tech industry. Showcase Your Brand at SIAL Paris 2024: Fill Out Our Exhibitor Form Today!

LIXR redefined energy drinks with natural ingredients to create a healthier energy drink alternative. The story of LIXR LIXR, founded in 2023 by Hristo Vatashki, an expert in sales and administration management, and his brother, the renowned Bulgarian musician Ventsislav Chanov, who has a strong marketing background, is on a mission to revolutionize the energy drink industry. Backed by a small but dedicated team of three, LIXR offers a healthier and more sustainable alternative. Crafted with a unique blend of natural ingredients, the company provides a sustained energy boost without the harmful additives found in traditional energy drinks. A Healthier Energy Drink Alternative Driven by a desire for a healthier lifestyle, the company was born from the need for a natural and effective energy source. “Each LIXR drink contains 115mg of natural caffeine and 150mg of natural L-Theanine, extracted from guarana and green matcha tea,” explains Hristo, “The synergistic effect of these ingredients is gradually released, helping you maintain high levels of focus and productivity for up to 6 hours.” LIXR caters to a diverse range of high-performance individuals, including entrepreneurs, athletes, students, and professionals. Competing and Expanding LIXR differentiates itself from competitors by prioritizing natural ingredients and eliminating added sugars and sweeteners. This commitment to transparency and superior taste has allowed the company to build early traction in the Bulgarian market. To further expand its reach and introduce LIXR to a global audience, the company is actively seeking strategic partnerships and investments through the platform SIAL Startup Village. Showcase Your Brand at SIAL Paris 2024: Fill Out Our Exhibitor Form Today!

Moderato, a French startup founded in 2020, is revolutionizing the wine industry with its premium alcohol-free wines. Based in Paris and comprised of a passionate team of ten, Moderato aims to provide a high-quality alternative to traditional wine. Their tagline, “French wine is having its revolution, and it’s alcohol-free,” reflects their commitment to offering a new way to enjoy wine that aligns with modern lifestyle choices. Why ‘Moderato’? The name “Moderato” was chosen for its universal appeal and symbolic meaning. It signifies the perfect balance between enjoyment and moderation. Co-founders Fabien Marchand-Cassagne and Sebastien Thomas explain, “Moderato evokes a sense of striking the right balance.” This principle guides their mission to offer exceptional alcohol-free wine without compromising taste. The Founders’ Vision of Premium Alcohol-free Wines Fabien and Seb, the founders of Moderato, met through a mutual friend who saw their potential for collaboration. They combined their expertise to create a project that fulfills their ambitions and aims to impact society positively. Their innovative approach to wine reflects their passion and commitment to progress. Standing Out in the Wine Market Moderato distinguishes itself in a competitive market among numerous players by focusing on excellence in dealcoholized French wine. “We have a story and brand that are both unique and universal,” says the team. Their dedication to producing high-quality wines from fine French terroirs and a strong emphasis on brand identity and communication set them apart. Future Goals and Expansion Plans for 2024 Moderato has ambitious plans for 2024, including a turnover target of €2 million and expansion into Canadian and US markets. They also plan to launch a limited edition cuvée and continue their growth efforts. Fabien shares, “Our participation in SIAL Startup Village is a step towards increased visibility and traction from the Food & Beverage sectors across Europe and the world.” With clear goals and a robust strategy, Moderato is poised for an exciting year ahead. Showcase Your Brand at SIAL Paris 2024: Fill Out Our Exhibitor Form Today!

Véronique Steiner’s journey in fintech reflects the sector’s dynamic growth and her entrepreneurial spirit. Since joining J.P. Morgan, she has played a pivotal role in driving innovation and establishing J.P. Morgan’s fintech, media, telecom, and payments services across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. With a commitment to innovation, diversity, and philanthropy, Steiner’s leadership has been instrumental in navigating the complex fintech landscape, supporting clients with cutting-edge solutions, and fostering a robust fintech ecosystem.

Essento is on a mission to revolutionize the food industry by harnessing the power of insects. This innovative company produces various delicious and nutritious food products, all crafted using sustainably sourced insect protein. A Taste of the Future With a focus on taste and sustainability, Essento offers a variety of options to cater to different lifestyles. From hearty burgers and meatball alternatives to convenient protein shakes, bars, and snacks, there’s something for everyone. Their new sports line, designed and developed in Switzerland, promises to provide athletes with high-quality nutrition to fuel their performance. Why Insect protein? The decision to incorporate insect protein into their products was driven by a deep concern for the environment and a desire to find sustainable solutions to global food challenges. ” After the release of the FAO report in 2013 with the ecological and sanitary potential of edible insects, it was clear that we needed to bring this protein source to the European market,” Christian Bärtsch, the CEO&Founder said. A Team of Passionate Innovators in insect protein Essento’s team is a diverse quartet comprising individuals with expertise in economics, marketing, animal welfare, food science, and biology. Their combined knowledge and passion fuel the company’s commitment to crafting exceptional products that are delicious and planet-friendly. Targeting a Conscious Consumer Essento’s target audience is young, urban, and environmentally conscious individuals who seek high-quality, sustainable food options. By offering a wide range of products and building a strong network of partners, the company aims to differentiate itself from competitors and become a leading player in the insect protein market. Building a Sustainable Future Boasting a robust product line and a burgeoning customer base, Essento is primed for substantial expansion in 2024. The company has successfully secured listings for 6 SKUs in over 200 stores operated by Coop, Switzerland’s retail behemoth. Moreover, Coop’s online platform has facilitated the distribution of Essento products across the EU, particularly emphasizing the German market. Essento’s participation in the SIAL Startup Village demonstrates its ambition to reach a wider audience and establish partnerships with major European retailers. The goal for this year is to grow their business and increase the number of outlets and sales partners in Germany and Switzerland. Showcase Your Brand at SIAL Paris 2024: Fill Out Our Exhibitor Form Today!

Julie Ranty, former Managing Director of VivaTech, shares her journey from the Tech event world to founding Pollen, an innovative education platform. Discover her insights on scaling events, embracing AI, and the importance of continuous learning.