Science & Technology
Published: October 11, 2024 | Updated: 11th October 2024
Regional growth programme Venturefest South (VFS) is set to host its eighth annual Festival of Innovation in Southampton this November.
The event is expected to attract hundreds of businesses, investors and thought leaders from across the South, providing opportunities for networking and collaboration.
This year’s agenda covers a wide range of talks, panel discussions and interactive experiences aimed at startups, entrepreneurs and established businesses.
Ed Gould, chair of Venturefest South, said: “We’re thrilled to showcase the South’s incredible innovation ecosystem at #VFS24 Festival of Innovation.
“Some of the brightest minds in entrepreneurship, technology and business will be there to highlight the future of innovation, connect with investors and share practical insights for scaling and success.
“From new startups to established businesses, everyone will walk away with fresh ideas and valuable connections.
“It’s the perfect environment to inspire growth and success.”
To open the event, Ed will be joined by special guest Mike Hawkyard, a seasoned gaming innovator with a BAFTA nomination and over 20 years of experience.
There’ll also be speakers from Jigsaw Journeys, New Forest Ice Cream, Carswell Gould, Elite Team Scalers, Hicks Global Consulting, We Are Fyn, and clinical entrepreneur Dr Giovannie Jean-Louis.
New partners for #VFS24 include Arts University Bournemouth, Blake Morgan, Barclays Eagle Labs, Openshaw & Co., National Biofilms Innovation Centre, ICURE, FSE Group and the National Oceanography Centre.
They join existing partners including DSTL, South Hampshire College Group, Carswell Gould, University of Winchester, University of Southampton, University of Portsmouth, British Business Bank, Creative Network South and Solent Partners.
New this year are three core themes – seed, grow, and sell – each representing the various phases of business development, from initial ideas to scaling and market success.
The festival will take place at the Utilita Bowl in Southampton on Thursday 14 November.
To find out more and book tickets, visit venturefestsouth.co.uk