EU-Startups Summit: A Decade of Innovation, Growth, and Opportunity
Dive into a decade of innovation and growth at the EU-Startups Summit. Attracting thousands of attendees, millions in funding raised, and top industry speakers, it’s a must-attend event. Get ready for practical insights, networking opportunities, and the vibrant spirit of Malta.
Navigating the Future of Tech Events: Insights from Sesame Summit 2024
Joanna Kirk, Tech & Event PR Expert, co-hosted an interactive panel discussion on how to deal with the press in 2024 with journalist Anna Heim (TechCrunch). In the fast-paced world of technology and startups, staying ahead of the curve requires insight, innovation, and collaboration/community/collective. This ethos was at the forefront of the recent Sesame Summit 2024, held for the first time in the picturesque coastal city of Biarritz, France. As an exclusive gathering of 50 handpicked guests from across Europe and beyond, including VC heads of communications, tech event organizers, and industry experts, the Summit served as a beacon of inspiration, a catalyst for change and a vibrant community gathering. During the Summit, participants delved deep into the evolving landscape of tech events, exploring key trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the future of the industry. Throughout informal discussions and debate panels, the Summit provided a platform for thought leaders to exchange ideas, share best practices, and forge meaningful connections. Insights from the PR Panel Discussion: Navigating the Changing Media Landscape During the panel discussion on “How to Deal with the Press in 2024,” we delved deep into the evolving media landscape. Here are a few key takeaways from our discussion: Blurred Boundaries: As communication channels multiply and digital landscapes evolve, the once clear-cut lines between PR and communication are blurring. Navigating this ambiguity demands a nuanced understanding of evolving media dynamics and a willingness to adapt strategies accordingly. AI’s Impact: AI tools have impacted communications and media workflows, automating certain tasks and streamlining processes. Some of the tools mentioned include Otter.AI, Descript or ContentAI. Yet, with this efficiency also comes an inundation of content and a heightened demand for differentiation, challenging communications and PR professionals to cut through the noise and deliver truly impactful narratives. Content Avalanche: Anna mentioned that the exponential surge in content volume has left journalists grappling with an avalanche of pitches and stories, amplifying the competition for attention. Standing out amidst this deluge necessitates a commitment to quality, relevance, and authenticity in storytelling. Events are an important means of connecting with journalists and building meaningful relationships. Evolving Partnerships: Traditional media partnerships are undergoing a lot of change, with brands and media outlets seeking innovative collaborations that transcend traditional boundaries. This evolution presents both opportunities and challenges, requiring brands to navigate shifting landscapes and forge authentic connections with their audiences. How to create the best experience for journalists at events: Some key considerations include providing journalists with key information ahead of the event, avoiding scheduling conflicts with other events, facilitating interviews and networking, having a dedicated press lounge, ensuring moments of connection with speakers, providing guidance to meet key players & startups, providing moderation opportunities, avoiding spamming, curated content, and a local ecosystem press tour. Conclusion Beyond the panel discussions, participants had the opportunity to connect with like-minded peers and contribute to the collective advancement of the industry. From candid conversations to spirited debates in breakout sessions, we were able to talk about the realities, challenges, and opportunities that define the tech event landscape. While the Summit provided a platform for immediate dialogue and exchange, the impact also lies in the ongoing conversations and collaborations that continue after the event has concluded. As someone who attended all eight Summit editions and took part in their inception, I was curious to see if the Summits’ essence, which consisted of informal discussions, community connections, and lively debates addressing collective topics in our industry, was still relevant. The end of the Summit confirmed the feeling I had the first few minutes I set foot at Biarritz Aquarium at the welcome event, which is that there is still a need for moments/gatherings/a dedicated platform like this. And of course, communities, event formats, and challenges continuously evolve, but I believe that may be the exact reason why the essence of the Summit is alive and kicking.
ChangeNow 2024: Solutions for the planet
Over three days, ChangeNOW 2024 actively united innovators and changemakers, directly tackling global challenges with a collaborative spirit. The event thrived on opportunity, networking, and learning, inspired by a shared commitment to change. The Sesamers team, delighted to participate, is proud to present this concise summary, highlighting the event’s impactful and forward-thinking activities. Key figures Showcasing 1,000 Solutions ChangeNOW 2024 impressively featured 1,000 solutions across multiple sectors, highlighting innovation in addressing global challenges. The event included exhibitions and conferences covering a wide array of topics like ecosystem acceleration, biodiversity, and circular economy. Additionally, it emphasized sectors like education, energy, fashion, and health. Each area demonstrated unique approaches and technologies, aiming to foster a sustainable and inclusive future. Here are some of the main exhibitors of this year’s event: Bpifrance, Microsoft, Space4food, Necense, Urbyn, Housing-now, JOA, Schneider electric, Kering Generation Award, French red cross, Kinome, Rofim, Mixity, Enso, Wayout, Rebond For the whole list. Connecting Innovators At ChangeNOW 2024, networking was facilitated through an app, allowing attendees to schedule meetings and connect. The event also featured exclusive lounges for premium and investor pass holders, promoting interaction among executives and investors. Spontaneous meeting points throughout the venue were set up to encourage impromptu discussions and collaborations. Artistic Expression The “Art for Change” initiative at ChangeNOW 2024 showcased artists’ critical role in social and environmental change, featuring multidisciplinary art exhibitions and interactive discussions. Furthermore, the initiative offered insights into eco-friendly art production, emphasizing sustainable practices. This highlighted art’s ability to both reflect and influence shifts towards sustainability. Here are some of the speakers included in this session: Lémofil, Artist; Nicolas Dhers, CEO, FLUCTUATIONS; and Guila Clara Kessous, Artist for Peace, Peace Ambassador&Executive Coach, UNESCO. Full list of speakers. Diverse Learning and Innovation ChangeNOW 2024’s extensive program, boasting over 100 thematic conferences and workshops across seven stages, spanned a wide range of topics, including art, culture, biodiversity, and sustainable urban development. Moreover, the program’s diversity was evident in its variety of formats, such as conferences, pitches, and workshops, each uniquely highlighting different ecosystem aspects. Here are some speakers include in this session: Cyril Garcia, Head of Global Sustainability Services and Corporate Responsibility, Capgemini; Ritu Raj, Global Head of Sustainability Technology, Unilever; and Anatol Poyer-sleeman, Associate Counsel, Founders Law. Want more from Sesamers? Stay tuned for all the tech talk! Follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and X to keep up with more news and behind-the-scenes moments from various tech events ✌️
Zivile Einikyte
Join Zivile as she recounts her unplanned but rewarding journey into the tech event space and shares valuable insights from her wide-ranging experiences.
Tech.eu Summit London 2024: Elevating the European Tech Scene
Join Tech.eu Summit London 2024, the epicenter of European tech innovation. Featuring over 100 industry leaders and a wealth of networking opportunities, it’s the ultimate venue for tech insights, from fintech to AI. Discover, connect, and be inspired!
Previewing SaaStock USA: A Glimpse into Tomorrow’s SaaS Landscape
SaaStock USA stands as a premier event, bringing together a vibrant mix of over 1,500 SaaS enthusiasts – founders, investors, and operators. This year, the conference is dedicated to fostering human connections, a cornerstone in the SaaS community.
TechChill 2024: Embracing Innovation and Resilience in the Baltics
Join us as we explore what makes TechChill a not-to-miss event this year.
Hello Tomorrow Summit 2024: Deep Tech Meets Reality
The Hello Tomorrow Global Summit 2024 just wrapped up, and oh boy, was it a spectacle of deep tech wonders! In an exciting twist this year, the opening session set the tone differently. The Mc of welcoming session, Gemma Milne, put it perfectly, saying, “In the past, we’ve talked about deep tech in a way to introduce and persuade people that it’s coming. But this year, we’re here to show that deep tech isn’t just coming, it’s here, and it’s real.” This statement shifts the focus from mere anticipation to real-world application and impact. It highlights that deep tech is no longer a distant future but a present reality. The Hello Tomorrow Global Summit 2024 wasn’t just any gathering; it marked a significant moment showcasing the real-world impact of deep tech in our daily lives. The event buzzed with excitement, bringing together diverse technologies and industries. Whether it was AI, biotech, or space tech, there was something captivating for everyone in attendance. Highlights Exploring the Future: Over 80 Deep Tech Startups and Industry Leaders Unveil Cutting-Edge Technologies The Hello Tomorrow Global Summit 2024 was vibrant with innovation, featuring an impressive lineup of over 80 deep tech startups, as well as major industrial and research entities. Throughout the “Exploring the Future” segment, attendees gained direct exposure to the latest advancements in AI, robotics, biotech, and sustainability. This showcase didn’t just display technology; it emphasized how deep tech is reshaping industries and addressing global issues. Visionary Voices: Exploring Diverse Perspectives on Deep Tech at Hello Tomorrow Global Summit This Summit brought together a diverse group of pioneering speakers from various industries, all converging to discuss and pitch on a range of pivotal topics. These discussions covered a wide spectrum of themes, including “Advanced Computing: New Frontier,” “Aerospace,” “Climate Resilience and Biodiversity,” “Deep Tech Ecosystem,” “Decarbonized Manufacturing and Buildings,” “Energy Transition and Clean Mobility,” “Healthcare for All,” “Innovation and Entrepreneurship,” “Investor Insights,” “Scaling for Global Impact,” and “Sustainable Food Systems.” Industry leaders and innovators tackled each topic, offering valuable insights and suggesting solutions to today’s most pressing global challenges. Their varied backgrounds and expertise added richness to the discussions, showcasing the many facets of deep tech and its ability to make a substantial impact across different fields. These experts’ participation emphasized the summit’s dedication to encouraging dialogue and cooperation in advancing global progress and sustainability efforts. Networking and Collaborations Networking was a key highlight of the summit, uniting a diverse mix of participants such as scientists, tech developers, entrepreneurs, and investors. The event’s user-friendly app made it simple for attendees to connect by providing easy access to each other’s profiles, including their roles and motivations for attending. Moreover, the app facilitated the scheduling of fast meetings in specific rooms, enhancing opportunities for collaborations across different industries and driving innovative advancements in deep tech. This tech integration enhanced networking and highlighted the summit’s dedication to fostering connections among participants. The Hello Tomorrow Global Challenge The Hello Tomorrow Global Challenge is a prestigious event aimed at harnessing deep tech innovations to address pressing global issues. In its 9th edition, the challenge has recognized the startup tozero with a €100,000 prize for their innovative recycling process of lithium-ion batteries, enabling the reintroduction of vital raw materials into the supply chain. Alongside tozero, nine other startups received awards across various categories. Each winner represents the forefront of technological advancements, bringing solutions to some of the world’s most complex challenges. Below, you’ll find a list of all the forward-thinking winners from each category in this year’s challenge. Second prize, the moonshot factory: Robeauté Third prize: Jurata Thin Film Special Boston Consulting Group (BCG) prize: Cambrium Winner of the “Advanced Computing & Electronics” category: FononTech (Netherlands) Winner of the “Aerospace” category: ION-X (France) Winner of the “Digital Health & Medical Devices” category : Robeauté (France) Winner of the “Energy” category : Tozero (Germany) Winner of the “Environment & Biodiversity” category : Carbon Atlantis (Germany) Winner of the “Food & Agriculture” category: Perfat Technologies (Finland) Winner of the “Industrial Biotech & New Materials” category : TopoLogic (Japan) Winner of the “Industry & Machines” category: InSpek (France) Winner of the “Medical Biotech & Pharmaceuticals” category : Jurata Thin Film (United States) Winner of the “Sustainable Construction & Infrastructure” category: Photio (Chile) Trends in DeepTech Women in Tech In the realm of deep tech, women’s representation remains a critical issue. Despite a consistent showcase of women-led startups at the Global Summit, with over half of the recent finalists being women-led, only 6% of deep tech scaleups in Europe have female founders. To address this disparity, Hello Tomorrow is set to amplify the visibility of women-led startups by inviting 29 women co-founders to pitch at their Global Summit. These founders will also gain exclusive access to key networking events like the VIP Cocktail and the Invest in Women Event, showcasing Hello Tomorrow’s commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs in the deep tech industry. Deep Tech Investment Trends In 2023, deep tech investments showed significant trends with 24% ($79 billion) of funding focusing primarily on sustainability and digital technology. Europe, growing three times faster than North America in this domain, accounted for 20% of these investments. Notably, France and Sweden together concentrated 51% of VC funding in Europe, making them key players investing the most relative to their GDP in deep tech. This reflects the strategic prioritization and evolving landscape of deep tech funding in these regions. The deep tech landscape is thriving, with advanced materials and nanotechnologies leading at an 18% growth rate, followed by quantum computing and synthetic biology from 2017-2023. Notably, healthcare, manufacturing, and food & agriculture are the top sectors, each showing significant application presence in 2023. Notably, the push for decarbonization in cement production emphasizes sustainability, with the industry poised to significantly reduce CO2 emissions by 2050. These figures underscore the pivotal role of emerging technologies and sustainability in shaping the future of industry and environmental efforts. Want more from Sesamers? Stay tuned for all the tech talk! Follow […]
Pere Duran
Discover Pere Duran’s journey through tech event management, from a sales coordinator to the director of the influential 4YFN.
Sustainability, AI, and Sports! The 411 on JEC World 2024
The world’s largest composite and advanced materials event brought innovation, collaboration, and a glimpse into the exciting future of the advanced materials industry.
4YFN Recap 2024: AI Domination
At MWC Barcelona and the 10th Anniversary of 4YFN, the focus was on AI domination, the future of quantum computing, and one of the biggest alliances in the tech world.
Unlocking Innovation: Inside Podim 2024
We spoke with the Podim team to gain insight into what makes Podim a leading event in the European tech ecosystem- from the intimate nature of the event to the pitching competition!