Overview

The Venture Academy aimed to help SMEs that had been selected to present at the Forum. Experienced coaches from the relevant industry areas worked very pragmatically with the presenters to prepare them for their participation in the pitching competition of the Forum.

** The Venture Academy was highly encouraged for entrepreneurs looking to access international markets as they would be provided with concrete information, tools and resources in order to successfully partner and grow their business. 

Focus was on how to meet strategic partners and potential investors’ expectations. Participants received guidance on how their presentations and propositions compare with those of other participants, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses which need to be addressed and improved.

 

Who participated in the Venture Academy?

• Selected innovative growth companies with one senior management representative
• External coaches with relevant expertise and experience, who reviewed the companies from a shareholder perspective
• Facilitated by 2 moderators

Who were the coaches?

• Independent Coaches: consultants able to personally provide advisory services
  • Ex venture capital managers
  • Ex entrepreneurs
  • Ex advisors 
     
• Advisory Coaches from established advisory practices
  • Consultants from larger or specialised consulting/ accounting firms
  • Head-hunters or interim managers
  • M&A advisors or investment bankers

What did it cost?

Participation for all involved in the Venture Academy was free of cost. Nevertheless, it was exclusively for the selected companies.  Spaces were limited so we suggested presenting companies RSVP as soon as confirmation of selection was received.

** For selected Presenting Companies only