Web Summit is just around the corner, and as always, the lineup is packed with industry heavyweights, provocative topics, and big ideas. We’re extra excited this year because our very own JJ is MC-ing not one but TWO stages: Fintech Stage and Startup University! Plus, she’s on the judging panel for PITCH Group 11.
In anticipation, we’ve scoured the schedule and picked out the top 10 talks we’re buzzing to attend. From dissecting the DNA of products that people can’t get enough of to revealing the secrets of nailing your pitch, here are the sessions we don’t want to miss!
1. Making Sh*t That People Love
What’s the magic formula for creating products people can’t live without? This panel, featuring execs from Oura, Mercedes-Benz, and Lenovo, promises insights into how different industries—from wearables to automotive—design, build, and evolve products that capture hearts (and wallets). With these top minds in design and tech, we’re sure they’ll deliver fresh ideas on crafting products that resonate.
Key Speakers: Tom Hale (Oura), Magnus Östberg (Mercedes-Benz), Linda Yao (Lenovo), Dan Milmo (The Guardian)
2. A New Trump Era
From politics to privacy, tech to trade, this discussion unpacks the impact of the latest U.S. election on the global stage. With Trump returning to power, what does this mean for tech? Thought leaders like Richard Schiff and Katherine Maher of NPR will discuss this hot-button topic and explore how political shifts might ripple through tech.
Key Speakers: Richard Schiff, Katherine Maher (NPR), DeRay Mckesson
3. Fintech 2034: The Unicorn Roadmap
The UK’s fintech sector has held its ground through turbulent times, even establishing the Unicorn Council to boost growth in the sector. Hear from the council’s co-chairs and members as they map out a decade of innovation, investment, and expansion in fintech. With the likes of Janine Hirt (Innovate Finance) and Charles McManus (ClearBank), this session is poised to inspire and outline the future of finance.
Key Speakers: Iana Dimitrova (OpenPayd), Charles McManus (ClearBank), Janine Hirt (Innovate Finance)
4. Mentorship Motivates, Capital Elevates: A Blueprint for Tech Success
Success in tech is more than funding; it’s about mentorship, networks, and having the right people to lean on. This panel brings together influential leaders from DataSnipper and Clue to discuss how strong networks can supercharge growth. Perfect for founders eager to connect with mentors and investors alike, this talk promises valuable advice on building relationships that open doors.
Key Speakers: Vidya Peters (DataSnipper), Bianca Zwart (bunq), Rhiannon White (Clue)
5. AI is transforming the media
As traditional media grapples with the disruptive impact of AI, it faces both unprecedented challenges and new opportunities. This panel delves into how AI is reshaping journalism, exploring questions of adaptation, truth, and integrity in an era where technology evolves faster than ever. Hear from top leaders in the media world as they discuss strategies to preserve journalistic values while harnessing AI’s potential. This session is essential for anyone interested in the future of media and the protection of truth.
Key Speakers: Jessica Sibley (CEO, TIME), Nicholas Thompson (CEO, The Atlantic), Christian Broughton (CEO, The Independent)
6. Ukraine on the Frontlines of Tech Innovation
Ukraine’s tech sector has shown remarkable resilience, even amid ongoing challenges. Deputy Prime Minister Mykhailo Fedorov will discuss how Ukraine’s digital transformation is building a future-focused ecosystem. Expect a compelling session that goes beyond survival to showcase how Ukraine’s innovations are poised to leave a global mark.
Key Speaker: Mykhailo Fedorov (Government of Ukraine)
7. What’s Next for European VC?
With VC activity shrinking and startup funding cooling off, this panel dives into how venture capitalists in Europe are adapting. Featuring heavyweights like Northzone’s Pär-Jörgen Pärson and Passion Capital’s Eileen Burbidge, this session will explore balancing caution with opportunity as we head toward 2025. A must for anyone navigating the uncertain funding landscape.
Key Speakers: Pär-Jörgen Pärson (Northzone), Eileen Burbidge (Passion Capital), Rainer Märkle (HV Capital)
8. Bad Faith: A Tale of Fraud, Malice, and Deceit
Think startup life is all glitz and glamour? Taso Du Val, CEO of Toptal, will share his experience navigating a malicious plot by former investors to sabotage his company. This eye-opening session with TechCrunch’s Mike Butcher takes us into the darker side of entrepreneurship. Expect hard lessons on resilience, integrity, and the complexities of leadership under fire.
Key Speakers: Taso Du Val (Toptal), Mike Butcher (TechCrunch)
9. Podcasting 2025: From Bathroom to Boardroom
Podcasting has exploded into a $25B industry, and it’s only growing. Join Patreon’s Stephanie Hind and the creators of The Girls Bathroom podcast, who will dive into what it takes to turn a podcast into a multimedia brand. With tips on audience engagement, monetisation, and community building, this talk is essential for anyone ready to take their content to the next level.
Key Speakers: Sophia Tuxford & Cinzia Zullo (The Girls Bathroom), Stephanie Hind (Patreon), Lizzie O’Leary (Slate)
10. How to Fix Your Sh*tty Pitch
The grand finale of PITCH approaches, and in the lead-up, this panel is all about nailing your presentation. Experts like Juan Pablo Ortega and Henrique Ferreira will guide us through the secrets of effective pitching, from storytelling to understanding what investors really want. Whether you’re a startup founder or a PR pro, you don’t want to miss this one!
Key Speakers: Juan Pablo Ortega (Yuno), Lin Qiao (Fireworks AI), Henrique Ferreira (Inspira)
Ready for Web Summit?
This year’s lineup covers everything from the evolving role of mentorship in tech to geopolitical shifts affecting the industry. We’ll be front and centre for these talks—taking notes, asking questions, and bringing back insights that can shape the future of tech. JJ and Mauro will be there so do hit them up with a LinkedIn DM!
Can’t wait to catch you there!
