Last week, on Thursday October 12th, the startup event Slush – often referred to as the “Tomorrowland of startup festivals”, did come to Belgium for the very first time, in the form of Leuven Slush’D, with the ambition to light a spark in the Belgian ecosystem.
The mission was said to be twofold:
Firstly, Leuven Slush'D aimed to be an international launchpad for startups by connecting entrepreneurs with international investors, industry experts, and potential partners. It provided opportunities for startups to showcase their innovations, pitch their ideas, and facilitate collaborations and partnerships, accelerating their growth on a global scale.
Secondly, bridging the talent gap in the startup ecosystem. To allow startup ecosystem to thrive, more talent must find their way into the startup ecosystem. Leuven Slush’D aimed to lower the barrier to talent access and make talent more aware of the viable career path the startup ecosystem provides.
The purpose was to provide a supportive environment that fosters innovation, offers resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities to create a sustainable startup ecosystem.
“Unleash your startup’s potential on an international scale by pitching at Leuven Slush’D! We’re not just another networking event; we’re a dynamic launchpad propelling your business to new heights”.
This was the slogan used during the launching campaign. Can you think of any startup not being motivated and eager to participate?
The full-day programme revealed to be really exciting with a variety of stages, keynote speakers, competitions, panel discussions and side events being announced.
Not one, but two pitching opportunities!
Is hardware hard to work with? “Absolutely not!”, according to the event’s platinum partner Voxdale, who introduced for this edition 2023 their “BYND HardTech” startup competition, the first hardware-focused pitching contest.
We from Sealution were proud and privileged to be introduced by Voxdale as one of the brilliant minds who did make it as finalists to their “BYND HardTech” pitch competition, described as part of a selection of remarkable innovators having displayed unmatched creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurial ambition. These are their words …
It was an exhilarating experience to share the stage of the BYND HardTech Startup 2023 Competition! The innovative spirit and transformative tech solutions showcased by all participating startups were genuinely awe-inspiring.
And of course, a big thank you to our partner Voxdale and the jury for recognizing our mission and the potential of our technology. This accolade fuels our drive to push the boundaries further.
At Sealution, our mission is to fervently work on elevating maritime safety standards and operational efficiency. Through our unique solution that leverages Bluetooth wireless connectivity within existing wiring, we're pioneering a more connected, efficient, and safer maritime ecosystem.
Here’s to a safer and more connected maritime future!
The first edition of Leuven Slush’D now has an official entry in the history books of Belgium’s startup scene.
It was an electrifying gathering of startups, visionaries and investors as Leuven Slush’D promoted meaningful connections, inspiring pitches, and invaluable networking opportunities. Mark your calendars and join us in Leuven, Belgium for the edition 2024.
