Novable at the Web Summit 2024
The Web Summit 2024, held at Lisbon’s Altice Arena, was a monumental event showcasing innovation, collaboration, and transformative ideas. With over 71,000 attendees, 953 speakers, and 3,050 companies, it became a dynamic hub for global conversations on technology’s future. It was incredible to witness firsthand the event’s impact: engaging talks, startup showcases, and networking opportunities.
Here’s a recap of the highlights from the Lisbon edition of Web Summit 2024.
The summit opened with a bang as Brad Smith, Vice Chair and President of Microsoft, addressed the critical topic of AI ethics and regulation. He explored how companies can collaborate with governments to develop responsible AI frameworks that balance innovation and societal impact.
Pharrell Williams, the Grammy-winning musician and entrepreneur, provided an inspiring perspective on the intersection of creativity and technology. He shared his vision for how tech can empower underrepresented communities and drive cultural evolution.
On the exhibition floor, tech giants like Adobe, Meta, and Huawei presented groundbreaking technologies, while AI startups stole the show. This year saw a 16% increase in AI representation, reflecting the industry’s explosive growth. AI’s influence was palpable in health tech, fintech, and climate tech projects, which captivated attendees.
The second day shifted focus to technology’s role in addressing global challenges. Lidiane Jones, CEO of Bumble, highlighted the importance of inclusivity in digital platforms, advocating for more conscious community building in tech.
Investor sessions dominated the agenda, with representatives from Khosla Ventures, Northzone, and sovereign wealth funds actively engaging with startups. PitchBook’s data revealed that 43% of investors see AI and machine learning as the most disruptive technologies for the next decade.
Other sessions explored sustainability. A standout panel featuring leaders in clean tech showcased projects that blend profit with environmental responsibility, reinforcing the theme of technology as a force for good.
The final day brought bold predictions and inspiring stories. Alibaba.com’s President, Kuo Zhang, shared insights into the future of e-commerce, emphasising the role of AI and automation in creating seamless global marketplaces.
NBA star Carmelo Anthony provided a unique lens on the synergies between sports, entrepreneurship, and technology, while Manchester City footballer Rúben Dias discussed the leadership lessons applicable to both sports and business.
The theme of AI persisted, with panels examining its potential to revolutionise industries such as healthcare and education. Discussions also touched on regulatory challenges, particularly in light of the U.S. elections, and their implications for global tech policies.
Attending Web Summit 2024 was nothing short of inspiring. The vibrant discussions and cutting-edge technologies provided insights into the latest trends shaping the startup landscape. From networking with like-minded innovators to absorbing wisdom from industry leaders, the summit was a powerful reminder of the importance of collaboration.
At Novable, we focus on connecting startups with the right investors and partners, and Web Summit 2024 offered the perfect backdrop to explore new opportunities. While the focus of this article remains the event itself, our participation underscored how global events like this fuel innovation and partnerships.
Web Summit 2024 not only reflected the current state of technology but also set the stage for what lies ahead. It was a reminder of the power of collective innovation to address challenges, drive inclusivity, and shape a sustainable future.
