The DigitalMara team is heading to the Web Summit! Our CCO, Kseniya Litvinchuk, and Head of Technology Partnerships, Maryia Zhurba, will be on-site for all four days to make the most of the event. If you’re also traveling to Lisbon, you might find our quick guide helpful. We’ve gathered some tips to help you make the most of your time at the event.
The Web Summit is a global business and technology event, the biggest edition of which is held in Lisbon. This year, more than 70 000 attendees are expected to attend, including CEOs of technology companies and startups, founders, managers, marketers, policymakers, and many others. The event features more than 1,000 speakers, who will cover a wide range of topics of the greatest interest.
Establishing partnerships
Web Summit gathers decision-makers and teams from around the world, making it an ideal environment for partnership building. Focus on networking opportunities where you’re most likely to meet potential partners.
- Leverage the event app for targeted networking
The Web Summit app is a valuable tool for setting up partnerships. Use it to identify and connect with professionals and companies that align with your strategic goals. Introduce yourself briefly through the app, mention your shared interests or goals, and propose a time for a brief in-person meeting. This can lead to productive conversations and potential partnerships before you even arrive at the event.
- Focus on value-based conversations
When networking, prioritize conversations that offer mutual value rather than direct sales pitches. Many attendees come with an intent to sell, but the best partnerships are established through value-focused dialogues. When approaching potential partners, listen to their goals and challenges to identify how your offerings can complement their needs.
- Attend partner-focused side events
Smaller side events are often hosted by Web Summit partners, sponsors, and investors, typically with fewer than 100 attendees. These smaller gatherings provide a better setting for in-depth conversations and partnership discussions. Remember that some events can be invite-only or require early place reservations.
- Consider a booth to showcase your partnership potential
If you have financial opportunities, renting a booth for at least one day can be an effective strategy. Exhibiting allows you to showcase your value and attract attention from attendees actively seeking collaborative opportunities.
- Follow-up after the event
After the event, be sure to follow up with any contacts you made, whether through LinkedIn, email, or even a quick message via the event app to support ongoing communication.
Topics
Web Summit always has a focus on key themes that highlight the most groundbreaking and pressing issues in technology and business today. Here’s a sneak peek into what you can expect:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Attendees will delve into the rapidly evolving world of AI, exploring cutting-edge applications across industries and discussing the ethical, societal, and economic impacts of these advancements. Sessions will cover everything from Machine Learning and Neural networks to Generative AI.
- FinTech innovations
From blockchain to cryptocurrencies, the fintech track will showcase the newest developments in financial technology. Experts will discuss the future of digital currencies, financial inclusion, and how blockchain is transforming sectors far beyond finance, creating new opportunities and challenges.
- Healthcare technology
The healthcare track will cover the latest innovations in digital health and biotech. Sessions will cover everything from personalized medicine and digital diagnostics to revolutionary biotech solutions.
- Sustainability
As climate change and environmental concerns dominate global discussions, Web Summit will spotlight technology’s role in promoting sustainability. Attendees will explore how tech solutions and sustainable practices are making a tangible difference, and how businesses can innovate while staying environmentally conscious.
- Journalism and Media
In an age of rapid digital transformation, journalism and media are facing both challenges and opportunities. This track will examine the influence of technology on media, the ethics of AI-generated content, and the evolving role of journalism in a digital world.
Venue
The main events will be held at the MEO Arena and Feira Internacional de Lisboa (FIL), with additional networking sessions, workshops, and side events taking place throughout the city. Lisbon will transform into a hub of innovation, with opportunities to connect, collaborate, and celebrate alongside industry leaders and innovators.
Notable speakers
The Opening Night event features a conversation between Frank Cooper, CMO of Visa, and Pharrell Williams, a Grammy®-winning artist, Academy Award®-nominated filmmaker, philanthropist, and entrepreneur. Together, they will discuss the vital role of creators in today’s business landscape and explore how culture and commerce intersect in the age of social media. Their discussion will touch on technology’s role in the creator economy, the importance of giving back, and how both businesses and individuals can harness creative power to make a difference.
In his keynote, Brad Smith (Vice Chair and President Microsoft) will unveil Microsoft’s vision for the next evolution of GPT and how these advancements are set to redefine the role of AI in both personal and professional spheres. He will also discuss the ethical considerations and challenges that come with such powerful AI, focusing on the importance of responsible development, transparency, and safeguarding user privacy.
In her insightful session, Vera Pinto Pereira, a member of the Executive Board of EDP, will explore how shifting to renewable energy sources is not only essential for reducing carbon emissions but also a significant opportunity for economic and social growth worldwide. Pereira will outline how businesses and governments can collaborate to create sustainable, resilient energy systems that meet growing demands while protecting the planet.
Specialties
Web Summit 2024 promises unique interactive experiences, including:
- IBM’s AI innovations
IBM will present advanced AI hardware, including an interactive, AI-powered ping pong table and an AI bartender that creates drinks based on each user’s personality profile. These installations showcase the potential of AI-driven experiences and bring a unique element to the event.
- Adobe’s Adobe Lens Experience
Adobe invites attendees to experience their latest technology, Adobe Lens, through a hands-on demo. Attendees can design custom elements using Adobe Express and see their creations printed on-site, a perfect example of blending creativity with cutting-edge technology.
Final words
Web Summit is a unique gathering of the world’s most forward-thinking minds, where attendees can gain insights, build connections, and explore the latest in tech. It is a space to grow, learn, and discover.
Our team is ready for personal meetings and discussions. Connect with Kseniya and Maria through the Web Summit app to book a time slot and ensure we get a chance to meet.
See you in Lisbon!
