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Top Startup Events & Conferences in 2024
Our list of the most exciting startup events and conferences to have on your radar in 2024. Whether you're looking for GenAI or DeepTech, we've got you covered. We'll be updating this list with new info so make sure to bookmark it & check back often! -
Top Venture Capital Conferences & Events in 2024
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Top PR Agencies for Startups In Europe
As the world looks for sustainable alternatives to conventional protein sources, startups like Planetary, based in Switzerland, are paving the way for a greener and healthier food system. Founded in 2022 by Marison Ian and David Brandes, the company is a venture-backed food tech company that aims to power the economy by building industrial-scale infrastructure globally. Their core innovation lies in precision fermentation, and they’re set to make a significant mark on the global protein supply with their versatile mycoprotein product.”We’re building the bioeconomy together,” reads Planetary’s tagline. This vision aligns with the growing demand for sustainable, plant-based, and microbial proteins in a world that is grappling with the challenges of climate change and resource scarcity. Precision Fermentation: Scaling for Global Impact Planetary’s focus on precision fermentation is no accident. This method allows for the production of high-quality proteins without the environmental downsides of traditional animal agriculture. According to a recent study by the Good Food Institute, precision fermentation can reduce land use by up to 99% and greenhouse gas emissions by up to 87% compared to conventional meat production.”Our goal is to provide food producers with a sustainable, healthy, and versatile ingredient in the form of mycoprotein,” said one of the co-founders during the interview. The company is already building its first facility in Switzerland, set to begin operations at the end of 2024. This facility will serve as a cornerstone in Planetary’s mission to contribute to diversifying the global protein supply. A Team of Experts Driving Innovation Planetary’s small but highly specialized team of 10 employees works in Switzerland and remotely, bringing together expertise in bioprocessing, engineering, product development, and business. Their multidisciplinary approach has helped the company scale rapidly despite being in the early stages of development.”We’ve built a team of experts in bioprocessing, engineering, product development, and business to create a winning combination,” the team shared. This focus on building a strong internal foundation is key to ensuring they meet their ambitious goals in the coming years. The Growing Bioeconomy: Opportunities and Challenges As a participant in SIAL Startup Village, Planetary aims to connect with industry leaders and generate new customer leads. “We’re looking to establish strong connections within the industry and secure new customers,” the commercial director, Eleanor McSweeney, said. They also hope to lead in building the bioeconomy, which the OECD predicts could reach a global market size of $2 trillion by 2030. However, like any ambitious startup, Planetary faces its own challenges. “What keeps us awake at night is the rapid scaling required to meet market demand while maintaining high quality and sustainability standards,” admitted the team. But they remain driven by the potential impact they can make. “The idea of building a better, more sustainable food system is what gets us up every morning,” they added. The Road Ahead for Planetary Looking forward to 2024, Planetary’s primary goal is to get its first factory up and running. The company plans to expand its team, particularly as it scales its operations and production capacity. “We’ll likely be hiring at the end of this year to support our growth,” McSweeney noted. Their entry into the food-tech space comes at a pivotal moment when consumer demand for alternative proteins is at an all-time high. According to Euromonitor data, the global plant-based protein market is expected to grow at a 9.7% CAGR from 2021 to 2028. With such promising market trends and a clear roadmap, Planetary is well-positioned to make a lasting impact on both the food industry and the environment.” We believe that precision fermentation can revolutionize food production,” one of the co-founders emphasized. “And we’re excited to be part of that transformation.”
Founded in 2020 by Alexandre Thebaud, Emile Maine, and Alexis Karkour, based in Grasse, Côte d’Azur, JANE is a French startup making waves in the beverage industry with its innovative approach to natural, functional drinks. With just two dedicated employees and a clear vision, the company is quickly carving out its niche in a competitive market, offering consumers a taste of well-being through its unique product line. A Name Rooted in Elegance and Innovation When asked about the origin of the company’s name, JANE’s founders shared an interesting story. “JANE is an elegant contraction of Mary Jane. Initially, we launched our first drink, a CBD iced tea, hence the reference to the plant,” they explained. This reflects their mission to create drinks that not only taste good but also promote wellness, something their flagship product embodied from the start. A Holistic Approach to Well-Being Its focus on holistic well-being sets JANE apart from its competitors. The company has partnered with Robertet, the world leader in natural flavoring, to develop drinks that cater to consumers’ daily needs. “We wanted to prove that a drink could be healthy, accessible, and very interesting in taste,” said Thebaud. This philosophy resonates with the brand’s primary audience—women aged 35-55—increasingly seeking healthier, more functional beverage options. Navigating a Competitive Market The functional and wellness beverage market is highly competitive, and recent Emulent reports estimate it will reach $208.13 billion by 2025. To differentiate itself, JANE uses unique flavors and sleek, modern designs. “Our goal is to expand into more points of sale with our innovative approach,” said Thebaud. The company is already gaining traction with just two employees, securing space in hundreds of supermarkets and restaurants. “We are listed in several hundred outlets,” they proudly shared, showcasing their growth potential. Building on Early Success with Strategic Partnerships JANE’s partnership with Robertet has been pivotal, helping the startup create standout functional drinks. “Thanks to Robertet, we’ve merged functional ingredients with innovative recipes,” Thebaud said. The company also sees value in networking at events like SIAL Startup Village, a prime platform for showcasing its products to investors and partners. “We applied to SIAL to promote our brand and develop partnerships. We hope to meet new partners, customers, and possibly investors,” Thebaud added. The Road Ahead With a strong foundation built on quality and innovation, JANE has big plans for the future. While the majority of its revenue currently comes from B2B and retail, the company is looking to expand its footprint and develop new products that continue to blend health with flavor. The global trend towards wellness is on their side, as more consumers prioritize functional foods and beverages daily.
Transparency and traceability have become critical in the complex world of agri-food supply chains. Connecting Food, a French startup founded in 2016, aims to address these challenges by offering a blockchain-powered SaaS platform that centralizes and simplifies data collection, providing real-time visibility and compliance for food suppliers and manufacturers. With its innovative solution, Connecting Food has attracted key players across the industry. It helps them ensure product compliance with European and U.S. regulations while improving accuracy and security throughout their supply chain. From Mars and Nestlé to Blockchain Innovation The idea behind Connecting Food came from the hands-on experience of its Co-Founders, Maxine Roper and Stefano Volpi. Both have worked for over 20 years at top-tier food companies like Mars, Nestlé, Danone, and Avril. “At Mars and Nestlé, we saw firsthand the challenges of connecting supply chain data to meet legal and quality standards,” said Roper. This led them to leave their C-level roles and launch Connecting Food to revolutionize data management in the agri-food sector. Why “Connecting Food”? The startup’s name, “Connecting Food,” perfectly embodies its mission. According to the Co-Founders, the company “connects the dots” between the many actors in the agriculture and food industries. By doing so, the platform increases visibility and transparency, allowing businesses to track products from farm to fork.”We bring greater visibility into supply chains by connecting all industry actors that source from agriculture. Our platform ensures compliance with both European and U.S. regulations while increasing accuracy and security,” explained Volpi. A Strong Team with Diverse Expertise Connecting Food’s team is its greatest asset. It combines Tech expertise with deep industry knowledge. Based in Paris, the team works from the heart of one of Europe’s leading hubs for innovation.”Our team brings together technology, data, and industry experience. From ex-Deezer engineers to experts in food safety testing from Eurofins, we’ve built a unique blend of talent,” said Volpi. The team also includes professionals from Carrefour, BCG, and Bearing Point, adding depth to its sales, customer success, and data management operations. Targeting the Entire Agri-Food Ecosystem Connecting Food works with various clients at every stage of the agri-food supply chain, including retailers like Migros, branded manufacturers like Barilla and General Mills, and farming groups like Axereal.“Our platform enables clients to gain visibility, precision, and compliance in their supply chain operations,” Roper explained. With increasing demand for more transparency and compliance, especially in the face of a growing regulatory landscape, The company’s value proposition continues to grow. Standing Out from the Competition In the competitive landscape of supply chain management platforms, Connecting Food distinguishes itself through its unique focus on agrifood. While competitors offer similar services, they excel in centralizing cost-efficient, comprehensive data for supplier assessment and product monitoring. “Our expertise in agri-food and precise data management set us apart in ensuring transparency and traceability,” said Volpi. This unique capability allows the company to better serve its clients’ needs while maintaining cost-efficiency. Revenue Model and Traction Connecting Food generates revenue through a subscription-based model. It offers various modules for data management, digital auditing, and product monitoring, allowing clients to select the services they need to improve their supply chain operations. The company has gained traction by securing contracts with major retailers, manufacturers, and farming groups, highlighting its growing influence in the agri-food industry. Looking Ahead: Goals for 2024 After raising an €11 million Series A and receiving financing from the European Commission, Connecting Food is preparing for a significant growth phase. The company aims to raise equity by the end of 2024 to enhance its technology and expand services. “Our goal for 2024 is to scale our platform and explore new growth opportunities in the agri-food sector,” said Roper, as the team focuses on expanding its client base and meeting the rising demand for transparency and compliance in supply chains. Why SIAL Startup Village? Participating in SIAL Startup Village offers Connecting Food a valuable opportunity to network and showcase innovations to key agri-food decision-makers while engaging with current clients and strengthening its market position. “SIAL is one of the most important trade shows for food and beverage.” It offers us the chance to meet key decision-makers and showcase the latest innovations in supply chain management,” said Volpi.
This episode explores how Playfinity, led by CEO Pippa Boothman, is revolutionizing physical activity for kids by integrating sports with digital experiences. The company uses gamification and digitized sports equipment to promote active play, aiming to combat youth inactivity and its associated health risks.
Founded in 2019 by Birgit Dekkers and Jean-Bastien Bloch, Rival Foods is making waves in the food tech industry from its base in Amersfoort, The Netherlands. With a dedicated team of 18 employees, this startup aims to transform the market for plant-based meat alternatives. It offers diverse products, including chicken fillets and pulled chicken. Additionally, it is innovating with new options like tuna steaks and beef chunks. The Technology Behind the Taste At the heart of Rival Foods’ success is their patented “Shear Cell Technology,” developed in collaboration with Wageningen University. This unique approach replicates the fibrous texture of real meat, altogether ensuring an exceptional bite and consistency without additives. CCO Willem Spigt states, “Our innovations rival the conventional meat industry. We aim to provide high-quality plant-based substitutes that stand out in texture, taste, and ingredients.” Clean Ingredients for a Sustainable Future Rival Foods follows a clean-label philosophy, using basically just seven natural ingredients: water, textured plant protein (wheat gluten, soy, pea), natural flavors, salt, herbs, and spices. This commitment certainly boosts their nutritional value and meets rising consumer demand for transparency in food production. According to recent statistics, experts predict the plant-based meat market will reach $74.2 billion by 2027, with increasing consumer awareness of health and environmental issues. Rival Foods has strategically positioned itself to capitalize on this trend, especially in the B2B food service sector. Addressing Industry Gaps Spigt elaborates on the motivation behind their product development, stating, “The food service industry lacks qualitative meat alternatives that restaurants can place on their menus.” To address this, the founders aimed to create a B2B company that delivers high-quality plant-based substitutes with minimal clean-label ingredients. Rival Foods targets the food service industry, including restaurants, hotels, and catering companies. They aim to integrate innovative products into menus while reducing emissions and addressing climate change. Competing with the Best While Rival Foods faces competition from established players, they believe their unique approach sets them apart. “In the whole-cut segment, we produce and sell by far the highest quality on the market,” notes Spigt. Their focus on authentic texture and minimal ingredient lists generally positions them as a formidable contender in the plant-based space. Looking Ahead: Participation in SIAL Startup Invest Rival Foods has recently launched its products and is already seeing traction with listings in several countries. They are eager to showcase their innovations at the SIAL Startup Village event, one of the world’s most important food fairs. “We have high expectations for this trade fair in Paris this year,” Spigt shares, highlighting the opportunity to connect with potential clients from diverse customer groups within the food service industry. *Cover photo source
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Founded in 2014 by Kelly Thompson (Duffin) and David Tsivion in Israel, Incredo quickly emerged as a leader in the food tech industry, thanks to its flagship product, Incredo Sugar. This clean-label sugar reduction solution decreases sugar content by up to 70% while preserving the delicious taste consumers love. TIME recognised Incredo Sugar in its Best Inventions of 2020, highlighting it as a major advancement in the quest for healthier food options, and enabling consumers to enjoy their favorite treats without compromise. The Vision Behind Incredo Co-CEO Thompson shares the philosophy driving their innovation: “We named our product Incredo® Sugar because it captures the essence of our vision: enjoying your favorite sweet treats without compromise.” This innovative solution enhances taste and promotes healthier consumption, aligning with the growing demand for better-for-you products. Incredo aims to redefine sugar consumption, making it easier for people to choose healthier options without sacrificing flavor. Commitment to Health Thompson reflects on her dedication to the food industry: “I’ve dedicated my entire career to the food industry, consistently focusing on innovation. The importance of reducing sugar intake and promoting healthier lifestyles cannot be overstated.” This deep commitment shapes Incredo’s mission to improve global nutrition and transform lives through better food options. The company focuses on health and wellness not just as a trend but as a fundamental part of its identity and goals. Our Diverse Team In general, Incredo operates from multiple locations, including laboratories in Texas and Israel, boasts a talented team of 33 professionals. This group of chemists, food technologists, engineers, and business strategists unites around a common goal: to innovate in food tech. Thompson highlights, “Our comprehensive team ensures we can address every aspect of our solution with precision, innovation, and effectiveness.” This collaborative environment emphatically fosters creativity and drives the development of cutting-edge solutions that meet consumer needs. Target Market Strategy Incredo strategically targets food manufacturers, bakeries, chefs, and chocolatiers, additionally positioning itself uniquely within a competitive landscape. Thompson explains, “Unlike other solutions, Incredo Sugar is labeled simply as ‘sugar’ because it is real sugar.” Therefore, this clean-label approach not only enhances transparency but furthermore appeals to health-conscious consumers who seek authenticity in their products. This clean-label advantage appeals to health-conscious consumers who seek transparency in their products. By emphasizing authenticity, Incredo Sugar stands out in a market often dominated by artificial sweeteners and complex ingredient lists. Revenue and Reach Incredo generates revenue through direct US and European sales, complemented by distributor partnerships. The company’s innovative products are already present in various offerings, including cookies, chocolates, snacks, and spreads, reflecting a broad market reach. This successful model not only enhances accessibility but also positions Incredo as a go-to solution for food manufacturers seeking to reduce sugar in their products without compromising taste. Consequently, it allows Incredo to effectively meet the growing demand for healthier alternatives. Strategic Expansion Plans During Incredo’s participation in SIAL Startup Village shows its commitment to expanding in Europe. Co-CEO Thompson says, “Especially we aim to showcase our innovative products and strengthen customer relationships.” This strategy seeks to boost brand awareness and generate leads for sustained growth. In 2024, Incredo plans to expand its product presence to meet the rising demand for low-sugar options. “With Incredo Sugar, we are committed to offering more reduced sugar products,” asserts Thompson, aligning with market trends and addressing health-conscious consumers.
Startups are often the drivers of innovation, and BioHalo, a visionary company from the Technical University of Denmark, stands out as a leader in sustainable material science. Johann Liebeton, BioHalo’s Business Development lead, recently shared the journey that led them to win JEC World’s 2024 Startup Booster competition. A Revolutionary Solution for the Environment BioHalo’s breakthrough innovation involves engineered bacteria to produce eco-friendly, high-performance polymers. These polymers aim to replace Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances(PFAS), which are notorious for their durability and harmful effects on both the environment and human health. Liebeton explained, “PFAS are indestructible and harmful to humans, with the Nordic Council of Ministers estimating the annual cost between €50 to €80 billion.” This innovation directly addresses the urgent need for sustainable alternatives in industries that rely on PFAS. The Path to JEC World’s Startup Booster BioHalo’s participation in the JEC’s Startup Booster was a strategic move. Liebeton recalls, “the first thing I did was apply to the competition. We did not know our chances, but it was worth the effort.” One of the biggest benefits was the pitch training provided by JEC, which helped him prepare for a high-profile jury keen on PFAS replacement technologies. The Impact of Winning Winning the competition proved to be a turning point for BioHalo. Liebeton vividly recalls the moment: “Being selected as winners overwhelmed me. If you watch the video, you’ll notice my genuine surprise at the win.” The victory opened up discussions with potential partners, though scaling production to meet testing demands posed challenges. However, the team is focused on reigniting those conversations as they prepare for JEC World 2025. The Future Vision for BioHalo Looking ahead, The company aims to replace PFAS in various industries within the next five years. Their vision involves scaling up eco-friendly polymer production and collaborating with forward-thinking companies eager to adopt greener materials. Liebeton reflects, “The biggest challenge is bridging the gap between research and commercialization, but we see a lot of interest in making this happen. Liebeton offers simple but essential advice for startups considering the JEC World Startup Booster: “Don’t hesitate to apply! The process is efficient, and the support from JEC and Sesamers is invaluable.” 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! Cover photo by Kai Dahms on Unsplash
Ramify, a digital wealth management platform, was founded in 2021 by Olivier Herbout and Samy Ouardini. The duo met in 2014 during their engineering studies at CentraleSupélec. Despite different career paths—Herbout in portfolio management at Goldman Sachs and Ouardini in consulting at Oliver Wyman—both noticed major gaps in financial education and wealth management services in France. These insights led to the creation of Ramify, which offers improved financial guidance and investment solutions for French retail investors. In just two years, the company has made notable progress. “We’ve developed a comprehensive platform with just 11 full-time employees,” said Co-Founder Olivier Herbout, showcasing the platform’s rapid growth and operational efficiency. Addressing the Wealth Management Gap Ramify targets the mass affluent segment—individuals with €100k to €5m in liquid assets—who traditional financial institutions underserve. “Banks and insurance companies often prioritize their own interests over their clients’,” explained Samy Ouardini. This group has grown dissatisfied with the lack of tailored financial guidance. Additionally, the upcoming €10 trillion wealth transfer from Baby Boomers to the next generation over the next two decades presents a major opportunity for modern wealth management solutions.”Traditional wealth management solutions lack the tech infrastructure to serve this demographic at scale. We needed a hybrid approach,” Ouardini added. Ramify’s Value Proposition in Wealth Management The company combines AI-driven algorithms with human financial advisors to offer personalized investment strategies and tax optimization advice. “Our platform simplifies complex financial decisions, offering everything from stocks and bonds to real estate—all through a user-friendly interface,” Herbout explained. By automating many back-office tasks, Ramify reduces costs while maintaining high-quality service. “Cost transparency is a major part of our value proposition,” said Ouardini. This efficiency allows Ramify to offer premium services at a fraction of traditional costs. What Sets Ramify Apart from Competitors? The company distinguishes itself from competitors by combining advanced technology with personalized, human-centered service. Herbout explains, “We bridge the gap by offering an integrated platform that automates investments and optimizes portfolios while providing access to expert advisors.” Unlike robo-advisors who lack tailored advice or traditional wealth managers who can be costly and slow to adopt new tech, we focus on the underserved mass affluent segment, offering exclusive products like Lombard lending, Luxembourg life insurance, and Art. Ouardini highlights their transparent fee structure, adding, “We offer premium wealth management services at a fraction of the cost.” This blend of automation, exclusive products, and cost efficiency sets Ramify apart. Go-To-Market Strategy for Digital Wealth Management Ramify’s go-to-market strategy leverages digital channels and partnerships to attract affluent customers. Through targeted campaigns, they highlight their platform’s benefits and hybrid advisory model. Co-founders take a data-driven approach, believing “we only improve what we measure,” using data to refine the platform. Ramify prioritizes user experience, offering a user-friendly interface, transparent fees, and personalized advice to build trust and long-term relationships. Recent Funding and Future Goals Ramify recently raised €11 million in a Series A funding round led by 13books Capital, with contributions from Fidelity International Strategic Ventures, Newfund, AG2R LA MONDIALE, Crédit Agricole Brie Picardie, and several business angels. This follows a €3.5 million Seed round secured in 2022. “The new capital will be crucial for accelerating our growth, particularly in enhancing our technology platform and expanding services,” the team stated. With this funding, Ramify aims to solidify its position as a leading provider of premium wealth management solutions in France. Challenges and Market Trends in Digital Wealth Management Ramify faces challenges in scaling while maintaining high service levels. “We’re investing in robust customer support and technology upgrades to handle increased demand efficiently,” Ouardini noted. Current market trends, including wealth transfer and tech-savvy investors, are shaping the industry. “Investors are looking for streamlined, user-friendly platforms that combine technology with human advice,” he explained. With its focus and innovative platform, Ramify is emerging as a key player in the French wealth management sector, offering a modern alternative to traditional and digital competitors.
NutrEvent, the leading European platform for nutrition innovation and collaboration, is set to showcase a range of emerging trends this year.
In an era when sustainable food sources are more crucial than ever, Divaks is in charge of innovative, insect-based ingredients for the food industry. Founded in 2020 by CEO Kęstutis Lipnickas and Chairman Audrius Grušnis in Lithuania, this startup is committed to revolutionizing how we think about protein sources. With a growing team of 18 professionals, Divaks is poised to significantly impact food production. A Shift Towards Sustainable Food Systems Insect-based ingredients represent an important step toward creating a more sustainable food system. Producing insect protein requires significantly fewer resources like water, land, and feed, emitting fewer greenhouse gases than traditional livestock farming. Insect farming produces 80% fewer greenhouse gas emissions than conventional livestock. The food industry, seeking innovative ways to meet growing protein demand with limited resources, has taken notice of the reduced environmental impact of insect-based ingredients. Lithuania-based Divaks recognized this potential and developed a range of insect-based ingredients tailored to the industry’s needs. Insect Ingredients as a Game-Changer Their high nutritional value drives the shift toward insect-based ingredients. Insects are rich in proteins, vitamins, and amino acids, making them a highly efficient food source with minimal environmental impact. The FAO notes insects provide as much protein as beef but need fewer resources. Recognizing this, Divaks has become a pioneer in insect protein for the food industry. Insect protein is now a practical solution to sustainably feed the growing global population. Targeting Health-Conscious Consumers As the food industry evolves, so do consumer preferences. Millennials and Gen-Z are increasingly focused on health and sustainability, making them ideal consumers for alternative proteins like insect-based ingredients. A 2020 Innova Market Insights study found that 40% of global consumers prioritize sustainability in their food choices. Divaks targets food companies and ingredient distributors, appealing to consumers who value nutrition and environmental responsibility. The company is positioned for long-term success in an innovation-driven market by aligning with these trends. Collaboration in the Insect Industry One of the unique aspects of the insect protein industry is its focus on collaboration rather than competition. Divaks believes the collaboration will accelerate market growth as the sector is still developing. By working together, companies in the insect protein industry can boost consumer awareness and expand sustainable protein adoption. The company is partnering with European distributors and engaging directly with food companies to promote insect-based products. Their commitment to collaboration, innovation, and sustainability is what sets them apart in this rapidly growing sector. Divaks’ Revenue and Future Goals Divaks is currently building partnerships with European distributors, having already signed contracts in Italy and Germany. “We are finalizing contracts in Austria, the UK, Ireland, and Spain,” they reported. The startup is also exploring opportunities in the pet food market, broadening its reach. The company is participating in the SIAL Startup Village event for the first time, seeing it as a valuable opportunity to connect with producers and distributors while educating the food industry about the benefits of insect proteins. “We hope to enlighten others about the overall value of insect proteins,” they expressed.
CURIUS, a Swiss startup founded in 2021, is revolutionizing the beverage industry with its innovative design and functionality. Their “StayCurius” tagline reflects their drive to challenge the status quo and find better solutions. Using design to solve problems, the company is changing how beverages are presented and consumed, tackling long-standing industry inefficiencies. Why Choose the Name CURIUS? For CURIUS, the name is more than just a brand; it’s a philosophy.”Curiosity is our driving force,” says the team. “We’re not afraid to ask ‘why’ and ‘what if.'” This inquisitive approach is deeply embedded in the company’s DNA, driving it to push boundaries and create products that challenge conventional industry norms. Mats Olsson, Co-Founder of CURIUS, emphasizes, “By fostering a culture of curiosity, we uncover new opportunities and innovate beyond the ordinary.” Innovative Solutions Through Design CURIUS was founded to use design to address inefficiencies in the beverage industry. “Design is at the core of our products, solving inefficiencies long accepted as norms,” says Olsson. This commitment to design-driven problem-solving allows the company to stand out with unique, consumer-friendly products. From enhancing aesthetic appeal to addressing functional issues, CURIUS creates visually appealing and highly efficient products. A Team Built on Experience and Diversity The Founders of CURIUS—Alexander Curiger, Mats Olsson, and Juan Carlos Maroto Jara—first met in 2010 while launching Gin Mare, a premium gin brand. With over 50 years of combined experience, they work remotely from Zurich, London, and Madrid. Their diverse backgrounds and global networks allow them to tackle challenges from different angles. “With our experience and network, we challenge the status quo and offer fresh perspectives,” the team says. Targeting Discerning Drinkers CURIUS isn’t just targeting any consumer. “Our products are for discerning drinkers bored with average drinks,” says Maroto Jara. The company creates premium beverages with unique designs and real purpose, targeting sophisticated drinkers who value quality and originality. Their visually striking products, therefore, cater to consumers who seek more than just good taste. Setting New Standards in the Premium Beverage Sector In a market of established players, CURIUS stands out with its innovative, space-saving squared bottle design, which “saves over 80% of space,” the team explains. This design boosts efficiency and strengthens the product’s visual identity. Tapping into trends like Aperitivo and adult soft drinks aims to cater to those seeking new flavors and non-alcoholic options. With MATCH Tonic Water, they are ready to meet the growing demand for healthier, premium drinks. Strategic Growth and Market Expansion Since its launch in October 2023, CURIUS has made remarkable progress in the global market. “We’ve secured 20 markets for export, mainly covering the EU, and several key listings in Corte Inglés, Manor, Carrefour, Movenpick, and Globus,” the team reveals. In 2024, they plan to expand into Australia, Mexico, and the USA to reach €4.5 million in turnover. The company actively seeks new distribution partners by participating in events like SIAL Startup Village, aiming to boost global exposure. Driving Forward with Passion What keeps the CURIUS founders awake at night? “Boosting brand exposure and creating buzz around MATCH Tonic Water,” they say. Their passion for expanding the brand drives them constantly. “The same reasons that keep us awake at night motivate us each morning,” they add. Despite rapid growth, the team remains dedicated to innovation, focusing on design and efficiency, positioning CURIUS as a major player in the premium beverage market.
Our latest Podcast
Featuring Matt C Smith
In this episode, Matt C Smith, a former venture capitalist and exited entrepreneur, discusses his unconventional journey from venture capital to founding a startup and now pursuing his dream of representing South Africa in cross-country skiing at the Winter Olympics.
Through humor, resilience, and a passion for storytelling, Matt reveals valuable insights for founders and innovators navigating their own entrepreneurial paths.
Events Save the Dates
Birmingham Tech Week 2024
The event spans five days and includes a variety of events across the West Midlands. It features expert speakers from well-known technology companies and covers various important tech subjects.
Master of Scale Summit 2024
The Masters of Scale Summit immerses the most forward-thinking, fast-scaling business leaders in an environment designed to cultivate innovation, acceleration, and co-elevation. It will be unlike any other gathering of the year.
Blockchain Life 2024
The event will feature more than 160 speakers and offer extensive networking opportunities, including a startup pitch contest and a legendary afterparty
Tech Arena ZERO 2024
A unique high level conference focusing on solutions and opportunities within the sustainable transformation.
Heilbronn Slush’D
Heilbronn Slush‘D is the ultimate festival for innovative startups, forward-thinking investors, cutting-edge companies, leading institutes and the next generation of founders. Bringing together the who’s who in the ecosystem.
Startup Mountain Conference 2024
The summit features three days of activities including keynotes from seasoned entrepreneurs, networking opportunities, and workshops aimed at both early-stage and established startups.
TechCrunch Disrupt 2024
TechCrunch Disrupt 2024 is set to be a significant event for startups, especially known for its Startup Battlefield.
AWE EU 2024
AWE EU is the rendez-vous for XR business to connect, learn and thrive.
Frontend Barcelona Conference 2024
This premier event in Barcelona is your gateway to the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in frontend development.
Wolves Summit Europe 2024
2 days of high-quality matchmaking with the community of investors, startups, and businesses - all in Vienna, the heart of Europe
Platform Overview: Key Features and Benefits
- Free Job Board: Post jobs and find top talent for free.
- Call for Startups: Showcase your startup to investors, events, and potential clients.
- Exclusive Events Access: Attend top tech events across Europe.
- Perks: Enjoy discounts, premium tools, and special offers.
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Join as a blog contributor! Enjoy Tech event passes, grow your network, and boost your personal brand. Ideal for students, entrepreneurs, and journalists. Flexible role.
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We are looking for a hands-on co-founder CTO to lead our tech team and build our media and SaaS platform, offering events, job boards, perks, and more.
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Join Sesamers to shape the future of Tech events and innovation. We’re seeking passionate, self-driven individuals to join our dynamic team. Spontaneous applications welcome!