The South’s leading innovation and business growth programme, Venturefest South (VFS), is set to host its most dynamic Festival of Innovation yet, on Thursday 14 November, at the Utilita Bowl, Southampton.
The hugely successful event, now in its 8th year, is expected to attract hundreds of businesses, investors, and thought leaders from across the South of England, making it a prime networking and collaboration opportunity for those involved in the innovation landscape.
Key facts about VFS:
- More than 9,000 people have been involved since its inception
- The annual showcase welcomes more than 1,000 people each year
- 50 innovators and entrepreneurs offered £2.5k worth of support each year
- A partnership led programme run by 18 key organisations in the region
With interactive zones, startup showcases, expert panels and Innovation Talks, this year’s Festival of Innovation is essential for anyone looking to be part of the region’s innovation revolution.
The #VFS24 agenda covers a wide range of engaging talks, panel discussions, and interactive experiences to inspire startups, entrepreneurs, and established businesses.
Ed Gould, Venturefest South chair, 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 Gould will be joined by special guest Mike Hawkyard, a seasoned gaming innovator with a BAFTA nomination and over 20 years of experience, to inspire attendees to spark creativity and drive innovation.
The Innovation Talks will also include inspiring 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 influential partners for #VFS24 include Arts University Bournemouth; Blake Morgan; Barclays Eagle Labs, Openshaw & Co., National Biofilms Innovation Centre, ICURE, FSE Group, and National Oceanography Centre. They join an impressive line-up of 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.
Discover more in:
- Innovation Zone: Connect with innovators and VFS partners for insights and support; attend Innovation Talks on Early-Stage Innovation, Scaling, Long-Term Success and Investment.
- New Entrepreneurs Zone: Meet emerging talents from universities; pitch ideas at the Open Mic competition.
- Investment Hub: Get expert advice on funding, investment strategies, and business growth.
- Ocean Hub: Explore advancements in marine technology and research from Innovators and the National Oceanography Centre.
- Inspiration Hub: Attend workshops on intellectual property, angel investment, pitching, staff management, and digital marketing.
- Outdoor Innovations: View new outdoor exhibits, including a human-powered aircraft, Formula 1 car, Tech Truck, and autonomous underwater vehicle.
- Gaming Hub: Discover the latest gaming innovations and connect with creators pushing gaming technology boundaries.
Find out more and get tickets at www.venturefestsouth.co.uk.
