Prepare to be dazzled by this year’s stellar lineup of startups and scaleups at Podim! We’re thrilled to announce that the caliber of applications and projects from our region has soared, making it clear that our region is making a name for itself on the global startup map.
With over 200 carefully selected startups competing for their spot at the event, you’ll have the opportunity to connect with some of the best and brightest in the industry. These up-and-comers are eager to introduce themselves to you and explore potential collaborations that could lead to game-changing business partnerships.
Last year saw over 1,200 meetings – this year, we’re aiming even higher, fostering even more impactful connections between investors and startups.
Where do PODIM startups come from?
Dive into the dynamic startup scenes of the Alps-Adriatic, Central and Eastern Europe, and the Balkans. We’re proud to say that we’re solidifying our position in the market as the go-to regional conference for all things startup, and we’ve got the numbers to prove it!
Slovenia leads the pack with 24% of companies, followed by Croatia (14%), Serbia (9%), Italy (9%), Austria (8%), and North Macedonia (6%). All other companies are also from countries in the region.
At Podim, the stage is set for groundbreaking partnerships and unparalleled business success stories to unfold!
Key industries and technologies
In a world that’s evolving at lightning speed, adaptation is key. Falling behind isn’t an option, as fresh advancements emerge incessantly. This year’s batch of startups stands ready to assist in this transformative process. Take a look into the primary industries they represent for a deeper insight into the potential of Podim 2024.
Top 5 industries of participating startups:
- Business operations, productivity, and IT
- Health and well-being
- Lifestyle, entertainment, and sports
- Agriculture, Food & Life Science
- Mobility, Transport & Logistics
Luckily, the startups participating in Podim 2024 are leading the charge in this regard. These forward-thinking companies are incorporating a diverse range of cutting-edge technologies into their products and solutions, ensuring they remain at the forefront of their respective industries.
Top 10 most frequently implemented technologies by startups:
- AI
- Blockchain
- Advanced Materials
- E-commerce Tools
- Big Data
- SaaS
- Cloud Computing
- Agriculture Machines
- Marketplace Services
- Machine Learning
Development stages
If you are an investor looking for early-stage companies, we have great news! Almost 53% of participating startups are in the early stage. 34% are in the later stage, while 25% of the companies are in the seed stage, which means they are more than ready to meet with investors who are interested in relatively larger investment rounds.
Funding and other business ambitions
Last but certainly not least, the funding that startups are seeking! Only a few (4%) of startups are looking for funding up to 75,000 euros. 8% of our startups are not looking for funding, while the majority are seeking investment rounds ranging from 75 thousand euros to 1 million euros, while around 13% are looking for funds higher than 1 million euros.
Startups are not just seeking investments, but also business collaboration
Calling all corporations and SMEs – Podim 2024 is your gateway to staying ahead of the competition! Don’t miss out on the chance to engage with some of the most promising startups in the field and maximize your networking efforts.
Experience firsthand the latest tech innovations shaping industries worldwide. Imagine gaining a competitive edge by integrating cutting-edge solutions into your operations ahead of the curve!
Podim is your one-stop destination for striking deals with visionary entrepreneurs eager to revolutionize your business landscape. Partnering with startups could be the game-changer your business needs for more success.
Podim offers a dynamic platform for budding startups ready to explore higher investment opportunities and forge strategic alliances with established industry players like yourself.
How to meet this year’s startups
- Check out the materials available in this post and feel free to ask us any additional questions at [email protected].
- Order a Business Executive or Investor ticket.
- Review the presentations of all startups in the digital catalogue, which will launch on 24 April.
- Attend the online Demo Day on 7 May 2024, when all startups will present themselves with short pitches.
- Set up your profile in our app and start scheduling 1:1 meetings.
- Attend the event – from the semi-final of the Pitching Competition to the grand final, and meet startups in 1:1 meetings in Maribor on 14 May and 15 May.
For more information about startups or recommendations, feel free to reach out to our Startup Scout, who has the best insights for you. 😉
Sašo Djoković, Podim Startup Scout
