Opening Ceremony and Cultural Tour

The adventure kicked off on July 10th, with a mix of history and modern-day entrepreneurship on a closed program for selected guests. We started at the Royal Chapel of Granada, where the Catholic Monarchs are buried. Father Manuel Reyes led us through this historic site, making us feel the weight of history as we began our journey into the future.

After the tour, we headed to the Hotel Santa Paula for the official welcome. This event was moderated by Mariló Sanchez-Fuentes and brought the invited key figures of the conference together. Mariló reminded us how this city was the launching point for Columbus’s expedition—a pitch that secured the funds from the kings for a venture that reshaped the world.

Quico Chirino from Diario Ideal emphasized the media’s role in boosting entrepreneurial efforts, stressing how vital it is for startups to get their stories out there. Then, Marifran Carazo, the Mayor of Granada, took the stage, saying, “Entrepreneurship must be the lever that propels our city forward.” She talked about how Granada is using AI to enhance tourism, aiming to blend the old with the new in exciting ways and the openness of the city to technology and business.

Kissy Chandiramani, the Mayor of Ceuta, gave a brief but powerful pitch on why startups should consider setting up in Ceuta, highlighting the city’s tax benefits and digital transformation initiatives. Her talk was a reminder of the regional advantages within Spain that startups can leverage.

The opening ceremony concluded with an outdoor cocktail on the hotel yard, offering snacks to facilitate networking conversations among attendees.

Takeaway from the Opening Ceremony

The event showcased a strong and aligned collaboration between the vertical Madrid, Andalucía, and Ceuta, demonstrating a singular unified commitment to supporting entrepreneurs across this regions. Various speakers highlighted the numerous government programs available to entrepreneurs, emphasizing the benefits and support structures in place to help startups and businesses thrive. The ceremony set an energetic first tone for the rest of the event, blending Granada’s historical heritage with its potential as a tech and innovation hub.

The Competition

One highlight of Alhambra Venture 2024 was the startup competition, featuring over thirty innovative companies from across Spain. The competition took place over three days, hosted at the Museo Memoria de Andalucía and with live streaming audience.

Alhambra Venture 2024 winner: Ringr

Led by Diego Cuadrado, Ringr was crowned the absolute winner. This startup uses artificial intelligence for telephone management, creating a system that “speaks, breathes, and behaves like us.” It can operate 24/7, handle multiple languages, and even adapt to various regional accents. The award was presented by Amelia Martínez from the Ministry of Economy, Finance, and European Funds of the Regional Government of Andalusia, and Ringr’s live demo of making a restaurant reservation impressed the audience.

Prize: Ringr will join a mission to Silicon Valley organized by Alhambra Venture and the Chamber of Commerce of Granada, scheduled for the last quarter of 2024. The main prize includes a travel grant of €3,000.

All Verticals Winners

Best Environmental and Social Impact Startup: Insect Biotech

• • Leader: Ignacio Gavilán
  • Award Presenter: Luis Guijarro, Commercial Director of IDEAL
  • Description: This startup focuses on transforming olive sector waste into high-value products using insect larvae.

Best Agriculture, Food, and Water Technology Startup: Groditech

• • Leader: Ana María Molina
  • Award Presenter: Antonio Carlos Castillo, Technical Director of IDEAL
  • Description: Groditech offers cutting-edge technology solutions for greenhouse agriculture.

Best Applied Technologies Startup: Paintec

• • Award Presenter: Antonio González, General Director of IDEAL
  • Description: Specializing in drone and satellite technology, Paintec provides services for agricultural and industrial applications.

Best Artificial Intelligence Startup: iUrban

• • Award Presenter: Antonio Castro, Director of Andalucía TRADE
  • Description: iUrban uses Chat GPT in tourism offices, offering services in 95 languages.

Best Health Startup: Cobiomic

• • Award Presenter: Quico Chirino, Director of IDEAL
  • Description: Cobiomic develops personalized medicine tools and identifies blood biomarkers.

Special Mention: KDPOF

• • Leader: Iván Martínez
  • Description: Recognized for its relevance and innovation.

Collaborator Award:

• • Recipient: Mariló Sanchez-Fuentes from Radio Intereconomía
  • Award Presenter: Ignacio Rodríguez, Director of Digital Business at IDEAL
  • Description: Honored for significant contributions to making the event possible.

All track finalists of the Startup Competition

GLOBAL Sales Tech Festival On Tour 2024 – Granada Experience

After the official dinner on the 11th, we took a group of entrepreneurs on an exciting night journey through the city with the GSTF On Tour experience, aimed to provide a unique blend of cultural immersion, networking, and pitching opportunities for participants.

Night Walking Tour

The tour began with a walking exploration of Granada, guided by Alain a private local expert from WalkInGranada, who shared fascinating insights into the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. This immersive experience not only allowed the entrepreneurs to bond over shared interests but also to draw inspiration from the historic surroundings. Amidst the lively atmosphere, entrepreneurs had the opportunity to pitch their business ideas in front of their peers.

The pitch competition showcased a variety of innovative ideas, but three startups stood out:

• 1st Prize: Lucas Oliviella from Tokenized Green, whose project focuses on sustainable solutions through tokenization.

• 2nd Prize: Javier Perez from Bubbo.app, an app designed to optimize streaming reccomendations across all platforms.

• 3rd Prize: Pedro Berrios from Gobcity, which offers innovative solutions for urban management and governance.

The evening was a chance for these startups to gain recognition but also an opportunity for all participants to network, forge new connections in a relaxed and engaging setting, and celebrate achievements. The capacity of the tour was limited due to city restrictions for guided groups, and we meet with more participants in a renowed nightclub where VIP tables were reserved.

Interview with Antonio Romero advisor from Alhambra Venture

During Alhambra Venture 2024, we had the opportunity to talk with Antonio Romero, advisor of Alhambra Venture and General Partner of Sherry Ventures. Antonio shared his insights on the startup ecosystem in southern Spain and the future directions for Alhambra Venture.

Experience Alhambra Venture 2024 Live

As usual, we wanted to bring you the feeling and atmosphere of the conference, LIVE, no cuts no editions. 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 Alhambra Venture 2024 and explore the highlights by watching the livestream here:

Top things we liked

1. Intimate Setting: The smaller, more intimate setting allowed for deeper connections and more meaningful interactions. This is perfect for those who prefer a personal touch and the ability to network closely with other attendees, speakers, and investors. This also make it easier to get a first-hand approach to startups and their innovations, allowing for in-depth conversations and detailed feedback.

2. Familiar Environment and Good Vibes: The event had a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, making it easy for participants to feel comfortable and engaged. The positive vibes encouraged collaboration and the exchange of ideas.

3. Cultural Immersion: Activities were held in various historical places, offering a unique blend of cultural immersion. As you know, we love these kinds of experiences and are the first to promote them. We believe they add significant value beyond the usual conference experience by allowing participants to network and connect in a more engaging and unique way.

4. Plans for International Expansion: Despite the current limited international presence, Alhambra Venture is planning to create a bridge with Silicon Valley through their mission program with the chamber of commerce of Granada. This initiative aims to expand the global reach of participating startups and foster international collaborations.

Considerations

• Event Size: We find the size almost perfect, not too small not too big, but for those seeking the buzz and extensive networking opportunities of a larger conference, the smaller scale of Alhambra Venture might be a drawback. That being said, being in a more focused environment allows startups to receive more personalized attention from investors and mentors.

• Heat: Be prepared as Granada’s summer heat can be quite intense. This might be uncomfortable for some attendees, especially during outdoor activities.

• Language Barrier: While many participants spoke English, almost all sessions were held in Spanish. There are instances where non-Spanish speakers might face language barriers.

• Regional Government Insights: The event provided deep insights into the local startup ecosystem of southern Spain, which can be a significant advantage for those looking to invest or collaborate within the region.

Our take away is that the event has a nostalgic feel, reminiscent of local gatherings, but with a clear aim for international expansion. This blend offers a unique charm, combining the best of local traditions with a global perspective. It’s ideal for early-stage entrepreneurs with traction who are seeking angel investors, especially Spanish speakers. Additionally, it can be a very attractive for international investors to shop around. In top, the event provides a unique cultural immersion experience, going beyond the usual conference setting, allowing attendees to network and connect in a more engaging, fun and enriching way.

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

As GSTF On Tour continues to build momentum, we’re excited to announce our upcoming destinations across Europe. Next up is the historic and vibrant city of Munich, followed by visits to 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!

Munich – Time for a Beer at Bits and Pretzels

Our next adventure takes us to Munich, a city where history and innovation collide. GSTF On Tour Munich will be adding a stop at Bits and Pretzels, one of Germany’s leading forums. This is an incredible opportunity to network with top entrepreneurs and investors, all while soaking in the rich cultural ambiance of the October Fest.

Make sure to apply for your ticket below!

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!

Tech Open Air (TOA): A Decade of Thought-Provoking Discussions and Networking

Tech Open Air (TOA), held in Berlin, marked its 10th edition this year, reinforcing its position as a notable tech event in Europe. Known for integrating technology, culture, and art, TOA provided a platform for innovators and entrepreneurs to network and share ideas. The event featured a range of content with speakers from various industries, addressing topics such as artificial intelligence and sustainability. This mix of talks, workshops, and cultural elements made TOA a valuable event for those interested in the evolving landscape of technology and innovation.

In-Depth Insights: Exclusive Interviews at Tech Open Air (TOA)

At Tech Open Air (TOA) in Berlin, we had the privilege of conducting exclusive interviews with some of the foremost experts in the tech industry. These conversations provided a wealth of insights, delving into current trends, challenges, and the future landscape of technology and innovation. The relaxed yet intellectually stimulating environment of TOA allowed for candid discussions, where industry leaders shared their thoughts on groundbreaking advancements and the evolving tech ecosystem.

Watch Our Live Stream of Tech Open Air!

We’re excited to bring you live coverage from Tech Open Air! Check out the live video below to join in on the action

After the city tour pitch competition, the event moved to The Social Hub, a creative and modern space in central Berlin. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, The Social Hub provided the perfect setting for the evening’s activities. Upon arrival, attendees enjoyed a welcome drink, which set the stage for a lively evening. The spacious venue buzzed with conversation as participants mingled and shared their experiences from the tour. The informal and relaxed environment fostered easy interactions, paving the way for meaningful connections and engaging discussions throughout the night.

A highlight of the evening was an inspiring pitch by Mats Kuuskemaa from the e-Residency team. Kuuskemaa captivated the audience with a presentation titled “How Estonia Offers a Fast, Easy, and Digital Platform for Your Next Business”. He explained how Estonia’s e-Residency program allows entrepreneurs, freelancers, startup founders, and potential digital nomads to establish and manage their EU-based businesses entirely online. This groundbreaking initiative, the first of its kind, is transforming the way people think about business in the digital age.

Adding a personal touch to the evening, Julian Mental Sixpack, an e-resident, shared his success story. He detailed how e-residency helped him overcome traditional business barriers and expand his company internationally, inspiring many in the audience to consider Estonia’s e-Residency program as a viable path for their entrepreneurial journey.

As the night unfolded, The Social Hub transformed into a vibrant and energetic party, thanks to an Ibiza DJ spinning some lively beats. The upbeat music encouraged everyone to hit the dance floor and mingle, creating the perfect blend of fun and networking. Tech innovators and startup founders enjoyed a relaxed atmosphere where business and pleasure seamlessly intertwined.

It was an evening of energy, laughter, and new professional friendships.

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 a side event at the prestigious 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 here!

Resourcly for the win!

The pitch competition at the EU-Startups Summit was a highlight, showcasing 15 innovative European startups. The standout was Resourcly, which won the top prize with its platform for efficient resource management, reducing waste and optimizing material use through advanced data analytics and user-friendly applications. Their pitch emphasized significant cost savings and operational improvements for businesses, highlighting their potential to transform sustainability practices. They received a comprehensive prize package valued at over €390,000 incluiding a €250,000 funding opportunity with Look AI Ventures and $100,000 in Google Cloud credits​. This victory not only positions Resourcly as a leader in sustainability but also underscores the importance of eco-friendly business models in the tech industry.

GSTF on TOUR at the EU-Startups Summit

Tilo Bonow, CEO And Founder of Piabo

In our exclusive interview, Tilo Bonow, CEO and Founder of Piabo, delves into the nuances of sales strategies in the digital age.

Tilo shares his experiences and insights on how technology and innovation can drive sales performance. His perspectives on the evolving sales landscape and the importance of effective communication are both enlightening and inspiring. Join us as Tilo provides his expert view on building successful sales strategies and the role of technology in shaping the future of sales

As we wrap up our recap of the EU-Startups Summit and GSTF On Tour Malta, it’s clear that these events are about more than just the talks and competitions; they’re about building a community. A community that encourages innovation, supports sustainable practices, and helps each other in the journey of entrepreneurship.

Our next stop will be Berlin next to TOA. GSTF on Tour Berlin will be held at The Social Hub the 5th of June with workshops, tours and networking activities.

Don’t miss the next chance to be part of this energetic community. Join us at the next edition of GSTF On Tour in Berlin, where we’ll keep exploring exciting ideas, building new partnerships, and celebrating the lively spirit of the startup community.

Stay tuned for more updates, and make sure you’re there to experience the energy, learn from the best, and be part of the thriving global startup scene. See you in Berlin!