Unprecedented Attendance in Lisbon
This year’s Web Summit has made history with a staggering 70,236 attendees from 153 countries. It’s like the planet’s tech enthusiasts decided to throw a massive party in Lisbon, and folks—everyone rsvp’d yes! With 43% of the attendees being women, it’s clear that diversity is not just a buzzword here. If you think that’s impressive, consider this: 38% of the speakers are also women, showcasing a shift toward gender equity in the tech landscape.
Startup Mania!
Bringing excitement and innovation, this year’s summit features 2,608 startups showcasing their groundbreaking projects. You might say it’s the ultimate tech talent show, and nearly one in three of these startups is owned by women. In a world where we are constantly inundated with tech solutions for everything, from your coffee machine to your smart fridge, this is an astounding representation of innovative spirit. Various industries are represented, but watch out for the powerhouses in SaaS, AI, healthtech, fintech, and sustainability.
Women in Tech Shine Bright
The figures speak for themselves: 43% of attendees identified as women and more than 38% of speakers fall into the same category. This is the highest representation yet, proving that when it comes to innovation, women are not just participants but leaders. Web Summit’s State of Gender Equity in Tech report highlights a critical narrative—while many women feel empowered to pursue leadership roles, a staggering 53.6% reported experiencing sexism in the workplace.
Investors in the House!
Say hello to 906 investors from 52 countries, ready to hit the floor and make deals. These investors are out there to snag the next big startup like kids in a candy store, or maybe like adults at a tech conference, but with less sugar and more startup pitch decks. 1,180 investor to startup meetings are scheduled—just don’t forget to bring your best elevator pitch!
World-Class Speakers to Inspire
With an impressive lineup, 806 speakers will take to the stage, representing an array of industries across 27 different tracks. It’s like watching the Avengers of tech! Notable speakers include Wikipedia founder Jimmy Wales and Chelsea Manning. Let’s just say, if you’re looking for insights on the future of tech, you’ll be in the perfect place as these industry giants share their knowledge and experiences.
Why Web Summit Matters
More than just a conference, Web Summit represents a convergence of ideas that have the potential to reshape our world. As Katherine Maher, CEO of Web Summit, emphasized, this is a space where remarkable ideas take flight and where people connect with a purpose. After all, connecting people in tech is about as crucial as connecting your phone to Wi-Fi. Whether you’re sipping that millionth cup of coffee or feasting on food truck delights, you know you’re at the heart of innovation.
