A Global Stage for Startups

The heart of South Summit is its renowned Startup Competition, which this year saw a record-breaking 4,500 applications. From these, 100 startups were selected to pitch their innovative solutions to a panel of esteemed judges. These startups represented a wide range of sectors, including fintech, health tech, and sustainability, reflecting the broad spectrum of modern innovation​​.

Engaging Keynotes and Panels

A very highlighted session at South Summit 2024 was the keynote by Peter Janech, Coordinator for Innovation, Education, and Investments at the UNWTO. Janech explored the ethical implications of AI, stressing the importance of developing technologies that serve the greater good of society. His discussion emphasized the need for AI to promote inclusivity and equity, benefiting society as a whole rather than a select few.

Steven Bartlett, an accomplished entrepreneur, writer, and investor, and the creator of the podcast ‘The Diary of a CEO,’ captivated the audience with his insights on the importance of making timely and strategic decisions in business. Bartlett highlighted the necessity of agility and foresight in entrepreneurship, noting that the ability to quickly adapt to changes can mean the difference between success and failure.

Christopher Hui, Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, delivered a compelling talk on the risks and opportunities posed by technology in the financial services sector. Hui emphasized that while technological advancements offer significant potential for growth and innovation, they also bring challenges that require careful management, particularly in areas such as cybersecurity and regulatory compliance.

The Competition

Amidst the vibrant atmosphere of South Summit 2024, the Startup Competition is always a highlight, showcasing the cutting-edge ideas and relentless drive of innovators from around the world. This year’s competition was particularly fierce, with over 4,500 entries vying for recognition across diverse categories. As each finalist presented their solutions, the energy and anticipation were palpable, reflecting the spirit of innovation that defines the event. The competition culminated in the celebration of ten outstanding startups, each making significant strides in their respective fields. From disruptive technologies to sustainable solutions, these startups represent the forefront of tomorrow’s business landscape. Let’s delve into the remarkable achievements of these visionary entrepreneurs and the impact they are set to make on the global stage.

Overall Winner: Invopop

The Spanish startup Invopop emerged as the overall winner of the 13th edition of South Summit, triumphing in the Enterprise vertical. Invopop, based in Madrid, provides a global solution for businesses to issue invoices in any country, facilitating sales registration, invoice conversion, and communication with respective tax authorities. This significant achievement underscores Invopop’s innovative approach to simplifying international business transactions, positioning it as a leader in the fintech sector​.

All track winners of the Startup Competition

South Summit Kids Competition

The South Summit Kids Competition recognized the Colegio Internacional de Aravaca for their initiative ‘Kids Sustainable Guard Raids’. This project, showcasing the entrepreneurial spirit of young students, focuses on sustainability and environmental stewardship, encouraging the next generation to innovate with a conscience​​.

Estonian VCs Speed Dating and e-Residency Meetup South Summit

One of the standout side events of South Summit 2024 was hosted by Estonia’s e-Residency program. This exclusive event provided pre-screened startups with a unique opportunity to engage directly with leading venture capitalists from Estonia and nearby regions. During the dynamic “speed dating” session, entrepreneurs pitched their ideas and explored potential investment opportunities with top investors. These interactions offered valuable insights into the investment landscape and showcased how Estonia’s e-Residency can attract funding and support for innovative ventures.

A Night of Networking and Connection

The event culminated in a lively meetup at Impact Hub, designed specifically for e-residents and forward-thinking entrepreneurs. The evening was a prime opportunity to connect with digital nomads, innovators, and business leaders who appreciate the flexibility of running their businesses globally. The relaxed setting, combined with stimulating conversations, created an ideal environment for forging new relationships and exploring collaboration opportunities. Attendees enjoyed a variety of delicious snacks and refreshing beverages, which kept the energy high and facilitated engaging discussions throughout the night. This atmosphere allowed participants to delve deeper into the benefits of e-Residency in a convivial and informal setting.

Why E-Residency is a Game-Changer for Entrepreneurs

The meetup also highlighted the significant advantages of Estonia’s e-Residency program, which enables non-residents to establish and run an EU-based business online. This program effectively removes barriers to international entrepreneurship, especially in an era where digital transformation is reshaping the business landscape. The potential of e-Residency to drive global business expansion was underscored by the presence of startups like Dooiu, Teco Mobility, and Thxu, which had the opportunity to pitch to investors during the event.

Estonia’s thriving startup ecosystem, which secured over $750 million in venture capital in the first half of 2022 alone, is a testament to the immense opportunities offered through e-Residency. Leading Europe in VC investments per capita, Estonia’s ecosystem boasts a high concentration of unicorn companies. This makes e-Residency an invaluable tool for entrepreneurs aiming to access international markets and drive significant business growth.

Exclusive Interviews at South Summit 2024: Watch Now!

We had the unique opportunity to conduct some insightful interviews at the South Summit 2024, capturing the thoughts and experiences of key speakers and participants. Dive into these conversations to get an inside look at the latest trends in entrepreneurship and innovation.

Experience South Summit Live

We wanted to bring you the excitement and vibrant atmosphere of the South Summit 2024 in Madrid, so we captured the event live! Our livestream includes enhanced coverage with real-time interviews, giving you an immersive experience and a front-row seat to all the action.

Dive into the heart of the South Summit and explore the highlights by watching the livestream here:

Embark on an Exciting Journey with GSTF On Tour: Next Stop, Granada!

As GSTF On Tour continues to build momentum, we’re excited to announce our upcoming destinations across Europe. First up is the historic and vibrant city of Granada, followed by visits to Munich, Madrid, Lisbon, and Davos. Each city offers a unique blend of culture, innovation, and networking opportunities. Here’s a quick look at what’s in store!

Granada – Starting with a Bang at Alhambra Venture

Our next adventure takes us to Granada, a city where history and innovation collide. GSTF On Tour will be adding a stop at Alhambra Venture, one of Spain’s leading startup and investment forums. This is an incredible opportunity to network with top entrepreneurs and investors, all while soaking in the rich cultural ambiance of the Alhambra.

Make sure to apply for your ticket below!

South Summit took place in Madrid from 5-7th of October at ‘La Nave’. It was a meeting point for Start-Ups and Partners, and an important opportunity to make yourself known among other new companies. In the last two and a half years, Spain has developed as an entrepreneurial ecosystem. (60% are Startups with their own launched project).  Start-Ups are maturing and many can be considered scaleups. (Startups in a more advanced phase of development). 

The most important thing about new startups in Spain is their vision. Their ability to identify new market opportunities. In addition to that, it’s important to mention that start-ups demand better taxation as a priority. 

Once again this year, Fintech declares itself as the leading industry inside this entrepreneurial ecosystem, but we can’t mention agrotech and e-commerce. The Pandemic has had its effects influencing these companies in 2021. 

Also, it’s important to mention that Spanish entrepreneurs continue to be highly qualified, 16% have a doctorate, which is the highest professional qualification. Also, they are well focused on innovation inside and outside the country, making international bridges, which is also a priority for us, Club GLOBALS. That’s why our media team had the opportunity of meeting and interviewing some of the Start-Ups there, among the CEO, Marta del Castillo, and the South Summit’s founder, Maria Benjumea. 

• Alejandra Menendez, Digital Summit in Valencia
• Alejandro Sánchez, Contents
• Henry Navarro, Vision Analytics
• Marina Bichara, Wooda
• Andrés Olaizola, Podder
• Federico Baguear, Gloria
• Jose Fuerte, Owo
• Antonio Jara, Hopu
• Javier Puebla, Talentoo
• Félix Ohswald, GoStudent
• Elena Garcia Domínguez, Sabadell Start Ups
• Nina Alastruey, Denium

Under the slogan  ‘Shape the future’, South Summit will be combining the best of the physical and digital world to make a way towards green transformation. The main goal of the event is to make this change through innovation and business, focusing on sustainability. 

We organized an exclusive Madrid Networking for around 30 guests to strengthen relationships and friendship on 6th October 2021 at Museo Chicote, where we had nice drinks and conversations till late in the night.

From here, Club GLOBALS wants to send a big thank you to the organization of the event, all of the volunteers, and everyone that managed to put together this opportunity for entrepreneurs, it’s important that we keep working on creating more bridges and a diverse ecosystem in the industry. Till 2022!

– María Benjumea, Startup Spain (00:03) – E-Residency (01:11) – Philip Werner, Project A (02:04) – Uri Tintore, Belvo (03:11) – Laura González, Venture City (03:51) – Aiyana Scully, Pleo (04:52) – Félix Paez, Hydra Space (05:38) – ·Carmen Requero, #EmprendeCanarias (6:53) – Kiko León, Decathlon (08:28) – Keon Evers, Avular (9:06) – Pablo Fernández, openvia (09:55) – Edwin Mata, BRICKKEN (11:03) – Azucena Elbaile, La Nave (11:38) – Javier Adán, Vistaprint (12:48) – Marta del Castillo, South Summit (13:07)