Slush Helsinki is a concept in the startup world. Leaders, innovators and the most important key players fly to Helsinki every autumn to share their stories, experiences and current trends. Over the course of two days, 13,000 visitors attend 25,000 sessions and listen to more than 200 speakers. Representatives of the Czech startup ecosystem are not left out either. On the second day of the conference, there is a special side event called Bohemian Pitch, organised by CzechInvest in cooperation with the Ministry of Industry and Trade.
Bohemian Pitch
The Bohemian Pitch format is not just another presentation opportunity. It is a unique platform where Czech technology companies put themselves in front of an international audience. Fifteen Czech startups and ten investors have the opportunity to pitch in front of an audience and show that they are the ones who will impress in thousands of ideas.
“Thanks to the support of CzechInvest and the Ministry of Industry and Trade, we were able to go to Slush, where we presented our startup Yedem and had key meetings with investors. This opportunity opens the way to the international VC ecosystem and helps us prepare for the next investment round,” says Matěj Ballo, founder of Yedem, a startup focused on corporate mobility.
Peter Varga, founder and CEO of startups Lafluence and Trendin and ex-Google, adds: ” Slush shows the direction of the global tech scene. The Bohemian Pitch allowed us to introduce Trendin at this level and thanks to the support of CzechInvest we have already connected on the ground with investors who see our international potential. “
Official support at the highest level
The Ministry of Industry and Trade has included Slush Helsinki on its list of official events. This recognition is not just symbolic – it is strategic and financial support for the Czech startup ecosystem on the international stage and a clear signal that the state takes the development of the innovation environment seriously.
Each pitch represents an intense battle for the audience’s attention. Those who can best sell their vision take away not only applause, but often concrete business opportunities. The result can be a real chance to break into foreign markets and take business to the next level.
However, the event is not just an opportunity for startups, as Jan Davídek, partner at investment fund Purple Ventures, explains, “Slush is one of the most important conferences in Europe. This year there were investors who together manage assets of USD 4 trillion. For us as a fund, it is essential to attend events like this, to promote our portfolio companies and to build relationships with other investors.”
