Southampton: Stage set for innovators at Venturefest South

Following successful showcases in 2017 and 2018, the founding partners of Venturefest South have announced a third showcase event #VFS19, which will take place on March 29 at the Ageas Bowl in Hedge End, Southampton.

Venturefest South brings together top talent from the region to demonstrate technologies and innovations, allow start-ups to pitch for investment, and match entrepreneurs with the right organisations to take their businesses to the next level.

The event will feature expert speakers, innovation demonstrations, investor pitching sessions, the Young Entrepreneurs’ Zone, informal open mic pitching sessions, as well as workshops and opportunities for networking.

Venturefest South is a not for profit initiative that has been created and developed by a group of partners within the regional innovation economy including: Carswell Gould,  Solent LEP, Innovate UK, the Knowledge Transfer Network, University of Portsmouth, Southampton City Council, Solent University, The University of Southampton, Portsmouth City Council, and Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council.

The fast-growing innovation network in the south is supported by a number of corporate sponsors including BDO, NatWest and DSTL. All the money raised from sponsorship and ticket sales will go towards creating opportunities for early stage business, startups to exhibit for free at the conference.

Venturefest South chairman Chris Allington said: “Venturefest South is run and funded solely for the region’s innovation community. We bring together innovators, investors and entrepreneurs, which is vitally important to help strengthen our regional economy and the community of businesses within it.”

David I’Anson, partner, BDO in Southampton, commented: “We are delighted to sponsor the Knowledge Zone at #VFS19.  Successful companies have strong business relationships and we look forward to linking with people who have great ideas and supporting them in maximising the opportunities available.”

Venturefest South is part of the wider Venturefest network, which works nationally to draw local innovation eco-systems together through a number of local events around the country, working closely with the Knowledge Transfer Network, Innovate UK and other national partners.

Tickets, including a limited time early-bird promotional ticket offer, are available at: www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/venturefest-south-2019-vfs19-tickets-43556929950

To find out more and to apply to take part in any of the pitching sessions, showcase an innovation in the exhibition or sponsor Venturefest South 2019, visit: www.venturefestsouth.co.uk.