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As we approach SaaStock Europe, this year’s event promises to deliver even more value to the SaaS ecosystem with new themes, expanded networking opportunities, and a dedicated focus on growth for early-stage startups. Here’s a sneak peek into what attendees can expect. Key Themes: Founder Diaries & CEO Insights The SaaStock team is launching two new tracks this year: Founder Diaries and CEO Insights, designed to provide a rare, personal glimpse into the journeys of successful SaaS leaders. According to SaaStock’s founder & CEO, Alex Theuma, these tracks will “share insights and inspiration from the people actually behind the success headlines” to guide the next generation of SaaS leaders. Industry Leaders and Speakers SaaStock Europe will feature over 100 world-class speakers, including some of the biggest names in the SaaS industry. Among the confirmed speakers are: These thought leaders will offer deep insights into the SaaS landscape, including growth strategies, fundraising advice, and leadership best practices. Networking Opportunities Like Never Before In addition to the main talks, SaaStock Europe is reinventing the Networking Experience, making it more structured and intentional. Attendees can look forward to: Beyond the structured networking, the event also promises an active social calendar, with welcome parties, 5K runs, and partner fringe events, making it easier for attendees to foster meaningful connections. The Accelerate Experience for Startups The Accelerate Experience program at SaaStock is tailored for Pre-Seed, Seed, and Bootstrapped startups to help them build product-market fit, connect with investors, and develop skilled go-to-market (GTM) teams. Key features of the program include: This program helps early-stage startups secure funding, scale effectively, and build a strong network. Tackling the Challenges of European SaaS The European SaaS market faces several unique challenges, particularly in revenue generation and retention. SaaStock addresses these issues head-on with a full day of interactive workshops focused on revenue growth, retention strategies, and boardroom sessions for revenue leaders. “Generating and retaining revenue is one of the biggest pain points in the market right now,” according to SaaStock’s Marketing Manager, Jessica Ramesh. Success Stories from SaaStock Alumni SaaStock has been a launchpad for many successful European SaaS companies. Josh Lee from Swit reflected, “SaaStock is the best SaaS conference ever! We generated 300+ MQL and signed up +250 SaaS professionals during the exhibition.” Similarly, Cristina Vila Vives, CEO & Founder of Cledara, shared, “I remember being on the SaaStock Pitch Competition stage five years ago. Back then, I was on my own. Today, 62 wonderful people make up Cledara’s team. We wouldn’t be here without SaaStock.” Beyond SaaStock Europe: The SaaS.Concierge Program SaaStock’s SaaS.Concierge is a tailored, partner-only service aimed at optimizing SaaS implementations and improving client satisfaction. This personalized matchmaking service connects businesses with their ideal customer profiles (ICPs) and ensures partners leave with tangible results. Maximize Your SaaStock Experience To get the most out of SaaStock Europe, attendees should engage in fringe events like SaaS.City and SaaSociety. SaaS.City, a one-day bootcamp held before the main conference, offers deep-dive workshops on crucial SaaS topics such as revenue retention, scaling, and product excellence. “SaaS.City lets you pick the content that matters most to you and your role,” notes a speaker. This year’s bootcamp themes:   For experienced founders, SaaSociety is an exclusive retreat to facilitate valuable connections. “Our content is two-way, no stale slides—attendees shape the dialogue,” explains the team. Additionally, the Startup Program supports B2B founders through investor matchmaking, while the Global Pitch Competition offers invaluable exposure. “It’s a chance to pitch in front of the region’s top VCs and funds, positioning your business as one-to-watch.” Final Thoughts For SaaS startups and established players alike, SaaStock Europe offers a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and grow. With a range of expert speakers, structured networking, and practical workshops, the event is set to provide invaluable insights and connections for all attendees. As the SaaStock team says, “this is your opportunity to connect with like-minded SaaS enthusiasts and swap ideas and challenges.” SaaStock continues to bridge the global SaaS community throughout the year with initiatives like the SaaStock Founder Membership, a private community for SaaS founders to learn and grow together. As David Neuhaus, CEO of SocialHub, notes, “the number of founders I know today is 50x what it was years ago. The insights you gain are priceless.” Stay tuned for more SaaStock events and opportunities coming up next year!

Explore the top 10 PR agencies in Europe for startups, specializing in brand visibility, investor attraction, and reputation growth.

Kefir Labo Dumoulin, a French startup founded in 2020, has quickly made its mark by embracing age-old practices with a modern twist. The name itself, “Le Labo Dumoulin,” reflects their commitment to reviving traditional methods of food preparation. “Old pots make the best dishes!” says Aurélien FABAS, the CEO, reflecting their mission to revitalize ancestral practices and highlight the health benefits of water and fruit kefir in today’s diet. A Health-Conscious Vision: Why Kefir and Fermented Foods? The founders of Kefir Labo Dumoulin chose to focus on kefir because of its deep-rooted history and significant health benefits. “Taking care of your health also means reconnecting with ancestral practices that have proven their worth,” they explain. With an increasing global demand for healthy, functional foods, kefir—rich in probiotics and nutrients—emerges as a powerful solution. Their unique fermentation process amplifies the nutritional value of fruits and vegetables while infusing their products with live beneficial microorganisms, which support optimal microbiota function. Alsace’s Finest Fermentation Experts Based in Alsace, France, Kefir Labo Dumoulin boasts unique fermentation expertise that sets them apart. Their skillful process creates delicious products rich in live microorganisms and essential nutrients. “Our secret? Unique fermentation know-how that enhances fruits and vegetables,” the team explains. This positions them as leaders in organic food, particularly in specialized and short-circuit markets, driving ongoing growth. Competing in a Growing Market for Fermented Foods With rising demand for healthy, fermented beverages, Kefir Labo Dumoulin faces competition but stands out for its quality and transparency. “We lead in specialized organic and short circuit markets,” they assert. Their fruit kefir, praised for its natural probiotics, sparkling taste, and low sugar, is a staple in French organic stores. The clear, additive-free ingredient list ensures consumers receive a health-boosting elixir. Future Aspirations for Labo Dumoulin Kefir Labo Dumoulin is gearing up for a significant opportunity at the SIAL Startup Village event. The team sees this as a chance to expand their reach and connect with key buyers in the industry. “There is significant potential in the world,” they note, highlighting their ambition to grow beyond their current market. By participating in this event, they aim to forge connections that will help them tap into new markets and continue their mission of bringing the health benefits of kefir to a broader audience. With their strong foundation and clear vision, Kefir Labo Dumoulin is poised for success in the global market.

Mushroom Material is transforming the packaging industry with its eco-friendly alternative to styrofoam. “Our material matches the properties of styrofoam for impact resistance, as well as thermal and acoustic insulation while being 100% sustainable and home compostable,” explains Mushroom Material’s CEO, Shaun Seaman. This breakthrough technology, derived from mushrooms, positions Mushroom Material to meet the growing demand for sustainable packaging solutions. Using their industry-first pellet method, they can scale production using existing molding machinery, ensuring seamless integration into current supply chains. From Skepticism to Finalist Mushroom Material’s rise to becoming a finalist in JEC World’s 2023 Startup Booster competition was unexpected. “Honestly, I don’t remember hearing about the competition. I was applying for anything and everything at the time,” Seaman says. Initially doubtful about the relevance of this particular competition, the team soon realized the value of the opportunity. Attending JEC World turned out to be a game-changer. “It’s been the best event I’ve attended, with excellent organization, massive exposure, and impactful 1-on-1 meetings,” Seaman confirms. Overcoming Stage Fright The pressure of presenting at a major event like JEC World can be daunting, especially for first-time participants. “This was my first real event, so it was very intimidating,” admits Seaman. However, with the support of the JEC World team, the experience was smooth. “Huge thanks to the team—they’re fantastic people and looked after us.” Despite the nerves, the pitch led to significant connections and opportunities, proving the competition’s value to their business. Pro Tips for JEC World 2025 Participants Reflecting on their experience, Mushroom Material’s founder offers advice for future participants in JEC World’s Startup Booster competition: “Make sure you have more than one person! We were overwhelmed by the number of people who wanted to connect with us after our presentation.” Bringing a team to manage networking is crucial to making the most of the event. “If I were to do it again, I’d bring one or two more people with me,” he suggests, emphasizing the importance of leveraging the networking opportunities. JEC World’s Impact on Mushroom Material One of the most memorable moments for Mushroom Material was realizing the scale of JEC World 2023. “The event was bigger than anything New Zealand has to offer,” Seaman shares. The global exposure and the opportunity to network with industry leaders were both humbling and exciting. “It was wildly memorable and had a significant impact on us,” he says, reinforcing the importance of attending international events like JEC World for startups looking to scale. The Future of Mushroom Material in Sustainable Packaging As Mushroom Material continues to grow, the company has big plans for the future. “Styrofoam is out, Mushroom Material is in. We’ll be the new household name. Watch this space,” Seaman says. With a focus on innovation and sustainability, Mushroom Material is poised to lead the next wave of sustainable packaging in the composites industry. Over the next five years, they aim to become a key player in replacing styrofoam with environmentally friendly, compostable alternatives. Ready to take your startup to the next level? Apply for JEC World’s 2025 Startup Booster competition before the final deadline on October 28th. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain exposure, mentorship, and investment!

What began in 2013 as a simple meetup in a Copenhagen park has blossomed into one of Scandinavia’s largest and most anticipated Tech events. “TechBBQ started as a networking event for local entrepreneurs, and it has grown because of the need to connect the Danish and Nordic ecosystem with the rest of the world,” says TechBBQ’s Head of Marketing, Vera Liscinska. Now, the event serves as a vital hub, offering founders world-class networking, media exposure, and opportunities to engage with investors and like-minded peers. “We want TechBBQ to be where every fifth handshake is relevant and impactful.” . 📸 Photo: PR / TechBBQ 2024 Theme: “One Giant Leap” The theme for TechBBQ 2024, “One Giant Leap,” is inspired by the challenges and rewards of being an entrepreneur. “We believe that ‘One Giant Leap’ embodies that feeling of being a founder; a constant leap of faith in something you believe in,” according to TechBBQ’s Head of PR & Communications, Keyvan Thomsen Bamdej. The theme highlights how small steps contribute to broader leaps in innovation, sustainability, and equity, reflecting the urgency of today’s challenges. “Together, small actions propel us toward a brighter future.” Maintaining a ‘Hyggelig’ Atmosphere Amid Growth TechBBQ is renowned not only for its size but also for its welcoming, down-to-earth atmosphere. “The way we do business in the Nordics is very informal, and it’s important that our event reflects these values,” says the team. Despite its growth, the event remains cozy and inclusive, emphasizing collaboration and diversity. “Our team comes from various cultural and educational backgrounds, which makes us more empathetic and inclusive in our interactions.” Beyond the Summit: Year-Round Support for Startups TechBBQ offers more than just an annual summit. Throughout the year, it runs various initiatives aimed at supporting startups. “We always have side projects that engage and support our target audience: startup founders,” they explain. One standout program is their Hero Academy, which offers tailored courses for seed and pre-seed startups. “Hero Academy helps startup founders establish themselves on the market and access crucial resources,” the team shares. . 📸 Photo: PR / TechBBQ Sector-Specific Focus: UrbanTech and Life Science The 2024 event will also feature expanded focus areas like UrbanTech and Life Science. “We foster innovation and growth in the UrbanTech ecosystem, accelerating the development of smart, green cities,” the organizers explain. The Life Science area will focus on both Planetary Health and Human Health, showcasing innovation in these crucial fields. “We are bringing back our Life Science area to showcase the best of the local ecosystem.” Opportunities for Investors: Nordic Investor Day and Matchmaking Investors have plenty to look forward to at TechBBQ 2024. Nordic Investor Day, held on September 10th, focuses on the state and future of Nordic ventures. “We will highlight and discuss the opportunities of today and the challenges of tomorrow,” says the team. Additionally, an LP/VC Matchmaking event will facilitate connections between limited partners and venture capitalists. Finally, TechBBQ just launched, in collaboration with Lab08, their newest AI matchmaking tool, TechBBQ Vicinity, to assist investors in their effort to meet the most relevant startups during the event. “All investor and business angels ticket holders can upload their thesis, get a list of the most relevant startups for you, and connect with them on our networking app, Brella.” Advice for First-Time Attendees to TechBBQ For those attending TechBBQ for the first time, the team offers simple yet impactful advice: “Network as much as possible with anyone relevant to your business growth.” Whether it’s a future investor, supplier, or co-founder, connections are key. “It doesn’t need to be a big sales pitch each time. A quick LinkedIn connection can lead to deeper meetings post-summit.” Finally, they add with a smile, “don’t forget to try our BBQ!” . 📸 Photo: PR / TechBBQ

Founded in 2024 by Dayog KABORE, AFOODS® Group is a pioneering food startup transforming our approach to food. With the tagline “A tasting journey to the origin,” AFOODS® merges African expertise with modern techniques to craft innovative, healthy products like PICE PELUS® and AKAJU®. By upcycling cacao, coffee fruit, and cashew apple, AFOODS® offers a unique culinary experience, reconnecting consumers with the roots of these foods. The founder says, “We want to take our consumers on a taste journey back to where it all begins.” Tackling Food Waste Through Innovation under African Food AFOODS® was born from the founders’ desire to address the “ugly realities” associated with popular commodities like cocoa, coffee, and cashews. These ingredients, while widely loved, are often underutilized in modern manufacturing. As African migrants with extensive European experience, the founders leveraged their expertise to create sustainable food innovations. They explain, “These commodities have untapped potential. We saw an opportunity to change that by combining African know-how with modern processing techniques.” Unique Value Proposition and Market Positioning AFOODS® stands out in the competitive food industry by upcycling food waste into high-value products. With minimal B2C competition, their authenticity and competitive pricing position them to capture significant market share. In the B2B sector, the founders believe that they can outshine market leaders and secure a strong foothold with the right funding, stating, “Our authenticity and lower prices will drive our success.” Growth and Expansion AFOODS® is strategically expanding its presence in both Africa and Europe. Based in the Ivory Coast, the company is setting up a sales and marketing team in France to penetrate the European market. “We are looking to expand in France and are keen to meet potential B2B customers, retailers, and investors who can help us grow our market share,” the team shared. This dual-market approach is essential for AFOODS® as they introduce their innovative products to a broader audience. AFOODS® – African Food at SIAL Startup Village and Beyond They view SIAL Startup Village as a critical platform for growth. “We aim to connect with B2B customers and investors who align with our vision while raising brand awareness and establishing key partnerships,” the founders said. In 2024, they plan to expand their customer base, boost sales, and secure funding to drive innovation. AFOODS® is committed to making a mark in the global market, reconnecting consumers with the roots of African cuisine.

Goxoa Sports Beer emerged from the founder’s personal experience of trying to enjoy a beer while maintaining athletic performance. “In France, alcohol-free beers didn’t offer the experience I was looking for as an athlete,” says the founder Jonathan Dubois. This challenge inspired Goxoa, a brand focused on delivering delicious, functional alcohol-free (AF) beers for athletes. “Goxoa means ‘delicious’ in Basque, and that’s exactly what we want to deliver,” he adds. As the first brand dedicated to athletes, Goxoa aims to redefine the AF beer market in France. A Game-Changer for Active Lifestyles The idea behind Goxoa Sports Beer was born out of necessity. “I struggled to balance my love for beer with my athletic lifestyle,” explains Jonathan. Athletes in France often avoided alcohol-free beers due to poor taste and a lack of relevance to their needs. Goxoa addresses these issues by creating functional beers that taste great and support recovery and performance. “We decided to create beers that offer the best taste and functional benefits for athletes,” says the founder, introducing a new niche in the French sports beverage market. Marketing and Business Expertise Combined Goxoa Sports Beer is powered by a skilled team of 10, combining marketing and business expertise. “Marcelo brings years of experience as a marketing director in the FMCG industry, a critical skill for a beverage brand,” shares the founder. With his experience in startups, finance, and business, he believes their combined strengths create a fast-paced, high-potential project. Operating from Montpellier and Madrid, Goxoa’s team is positioned to dominate the alcohol-free beer space for athletes across Europe. The Best Alcohol-Free Beer for Athletes Goxoa’s competitors may produce great-tasting AF beers, but they miss out on the functional benefits that athletes seek. “Athletic Brewing has a strong product, but it doesn’t fully serve the needs of athletes,” says the founder. Goxoa Sports Beer, on the other hand, focuses on providing athletes with both great taste and functional benefits, making it a more relevant choice. “We focus on giving athletes an enjoyable beer experience that supports their active lifestyle,” he adds. Goxoa Sports Beer’s Explosive Growth Despite being founded in 2022, Goxoa Sports Beer has experienced remarkable growth, selling over 100,000 units in just 12 months through more than 600 resellers. “There’s a real demand for functional alcohol-free beers for athletes,” the founder says. As Goxoa sets its sights on 2024, its goal is clear: “We want to flood the French sports market and become the go-to alcohol-free beer for athletes.” Expanding the Market for Alcohol-Free Beers for Athletes Looking to the future, Goxoa Sports Beer plans to dominate the French sports market in 2024 with its unique alcohol-free beer offering. “Our goal is to bring Goxoa to every athlete in France,” says the founder. Participating in SIAL Startup Village is a key part of their growth strategy, providing opportunities for strategic partnerships and investor support. “We expect to connect with key players who will help us scale and bring Goxoa to athletes across Europe,” he adds.

Reinventing the Egg: The Yumgo Journey Yumgo, a French startup founded in 2019 by Anne Vincent and Rodolphe Landemaine, is on a mission to revolutionize the way we think about eggs. With a unique name derived from “Yummy” and “Tamago” (the Japanese word for egg), Yumgo offers a complete range of plant-based egg alternatives designed for professional use in both sweet and savory recipes. As Vincent explains, “The idea for Yumgo came from a simple observation: we need to change our eating habits. Eggs, the most widely consumed animal protein in the world, are irreplaceable, so what can we do? That’s how the idea of Yumgo came.” Addressing the Problem: Sustainable Eating Eggs are a staple in many diets, yet they come with significant environmental and ethical concerns. Yumgo addresses this issue head-on by providing allergen-free, plant-based egg replacements that boast a carbon impact 70% lower than traditional eggs. “Yumgo is today the reference in professional egg replacement,” says Landemaine. The startup’s products include whole eggs, egg yolks, and egg whites in both liquid and powder formats, ensuring versatility and ease of use for culinary professionals. A Unique Solution and Value Proposition What sets Yumgo apart from its competitors is its dedication to providing a product that doesn’t compromise on taste or performance. As Landemaine puts it, “Yumgo offers culinary performance similar to that of eggs, with equivalent deliciousness.” This commitment to quality has made Yumgo a trusted name among premium restaurants and industrial food producers. Growth Strategy and Future Plans Yumgo’s growth strategy involves expanding its customer base and continuing to innovate. The team, based in Paris, is dedicated to developing new products and increasing brand awareness. “We will develop more products and enhance brand awareness compared to our competitors,” Landemaine notes. Participating in events like SIAL Startup Invest is a key part of this strategy, providing opportunities to boost the brand and generate leads. Looking Ahead: Expectations from SIAL Startup Invest By joining SIAL Startup Village, Yumgo aims to enhance its visibility and establish valuable connections. Vincent emphasizes the importance of such events, stating, “To boost our brand and to participate in these big events to get leads.” The team is looking forward to meeting potential investors, customers, and partners, all while showcasing their innovative products. Showcase Your Brand at SIAL Paris 2024: Fill Out Our Exhibitor Form Today!

#KEEPBUILDING: How to Web 2024 Focuses on Resilience The theme of the How to Web Conference 2024, #KEEPBUILDING, emphasizes resilience in the face of economic and geopolitical challenges. The event’s organizer highlights, “The key is to keep building, regardless of external circumstances.” This powerful message is designed to inspire entrepreneurs and innovators to stay focused on their vision and persevere despite external obstacles. Actionable Insights from Keynote Speakers The How to Web Conference features keynote speakers with deep expertise in product development, UX design, engineering, marketing, team development, investment, and startups. These industry leaders deliver actionable insights in their 40-minute talks. By combining the wisdom of seasoned experts with fresh perspectives from emerging voices, the conference offers a dynamic blend of experience and innovation, catering to both established entrepreneurs and newcomers. The Evolution of UX in Business Growth Fonz Morris, Product Design Lead at Netflix, shares valuable insights into the critical role of UX design in his keynote, “UX for Business Impact: A Netflix Story.” Morris stresses that in today’s digital landscape, product design is essential for driving business growth. Additionally, product positioning expert April Dunford highlights the importance of effective positioning, stating, “Strong positioning isn’t just about branding, it’s about ensuring your message resonates with the right audience.” How To Web 2024 Break Barriers for Eastern European Startups For many startups, especially in Eastern Europe, securing funding is a significant challenge. How to Web tackles these issues through its Spotlight and Dealflow programs, designed to connect founders with investors and mentors, fostering growth and long-term relationships. The conference also utilizes AI-powered networking tools to help attendees forge meaningful connections that lead to valuable outcomes like partnerships and funding. Strategic Partnerships Driving Innovation and Growth Strategic partnerships with major companies such as Google and Stripe enhance the How to Web Conference experience. These partnerships provide attendees with access to cutting-edge tools and personalized mentorship. As envisioned by the organizer, the conference aims to become the premier platform connecting global and regional tech players, driving continuous innovation and growth within the Eastern European tech ecosystem.

LA FABRIQUE A NUAGE setting the stage for a delightful transformation in the world of confectionery. Founded in 2023 by Florian Baud, this French startup introduces the first sugar-free cotton candy with a Nutriscore A. Their tagline, “LA FABRIQUE A NUAGE, la barbe à papa autrement!” translates to “cotton candy, but different!”—perfectly capturing their innovative spirit and commitment to a healthier twist on a beloved treat. The Name Behind the Magic of Sugar-Free Cotton Candy The choice of name for the company reflects its core mission and product. “We have our own brand NUAGE, the first sugar-free cotton candy,” the founder explained. “LA FABRIQUE A NUAGE is a French brand that speaks to everyone!” This name not only highlights their flagship product but also emphasizes their goal of making a healthier version of cotton candy accessible to all. Meeting the Market Demand for Sugar-Free Cotton Candy The founder launched LA FABRIQUE A NUAGE after noticing a gap in healthy snack options. “The market for healthy treats is booming, but few solutions are available and distribution channels are underutilized,” they said. This insight led to the creation of LA FABRIQUE A NUAGE, aiming to provide healthier treats and innovative distribution methods. Strategically Positioned for Success Operating from both Dijon and Paris, LA FABRIQUE A NUAGE has strategically assembled its team to align with the business model. “We build our team according to the distribution channels,” the founder explained. Each department specializes in its field—events, retail, and commercial property. This expert-driven approach allows the company to manage every aspect of the business with high efficiency and expertise. Standing Out in the Market Despite a niche market, LA FABRIQUE A NUAGE faces few direct competitors due to its unique positioning. “We have few competitors due to our positioning. Several attempts at cotton candy were made but the distribution circuits being low in value, it did not work,” they explained. By focusing on sugar-free options and more effective distribution channels, they aim to differentiate themselves from indirect competitors who do not target the same market. Building Future Success Revenue generation for LA FABRIQUE A NUAGE involves multiple streams: “Events: sale of services to brands. Retail: sale of personalized cotton candy bags. Property: sale of cotton candy through automatic machines in shopping centers,” the founder outlined. As they gain traction in these areas, their participation in SIAL Startup Village aims to boost visibility and build valuable relationships. “We expect to build relationships and sign new clients,” they concluded, highlighting their strategic focus on growth and market expansion. Showcase Your Brand at SIAL Paris 2024: Fill Out Our Exhibitor Form Today!

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.