IBTM World unleashes people, their power, and their potential with the new startup platform: IBTM Ignite

More than 100 startups from sectors such as event technology, sustainability, new event agency concepts, and inclusive talent acquisition companies will participate in the program. Each will have the opportunity to present their emerging ideas to an audience of approximately 30 experienced industry advisors and motivated investors during IBTM World in Barcelona.

IBTM Ignite will offer a combination of engaging formats. The Future Stage will host 30 short talks from emerging innovators, followed by investor feedback. The BEFuture Pavilion will provide dedicated space in the exhibition hall for 30 startups to present their products and services to investors. On day two, the Ignite Lounge will offer an informal setting for one-on-one meetings with investors, offering expert advice on marketing, financial planning, fundraising, and sales.

IBTM Ignite will be held in collaboration with BEFuture, a project dedicated to driving positive change in the corporate events sector across Europe. IBTM Ignite advisors include Eva López Álvarez of PUNTO MICE; Lori Pugh of MPI (Meeting Professionals International); Max Fellows of allpoints; Sonia Serracarbassa of Catalunya Convention Bureau/BEFuture; Richard Morris of Active Media Events; and Julius Solaris of Boldpush.

Claudia Hall, Director of the IBTM World Expo, said: “The business events industry is entering a new era of transformation and innovation, and startups are leading this change. As an industry, it is our responsibility to ensure they have the platform and resources they need to develop their ideas and connect them with investors and advisors who can help them on their journey.”

Our new IBTM Ignite program achieves just that. It's a destination for meaningful business growth, providing a platform for underrepresented voices and creating new opportunities and connections. We're excited to help drive the future of business events and look forward to seeing the achievements of this year's cohort.

Sonia Serracarbassa, from BEFuture and director of the Catalunya Convention Bureau, said: “At BEFuture, we work to ensure the future of the business events sector, driving sustainability, inclusivity, resilience, and competitiveness through research, innovation, and cross-ecosystem collaboration. Our acceleration program has supported 81 SMEs and startups leading this transformation. The collaboration with IBTM Ignite further strengthens this effort, providing these initiatives with the visibility, mentorship, and strategic connections needed to expand their impact and define the future of business events.”

Source: IBTM World.