6 minute read
Pitch Perfect in Vienna
The Enterprise Europe Network (EEN) at Cork Chamber is dedicated to helping SMEs innovate and grow on an international scale
Vienna was buzzing with excitement and vibrant energy as it played host to the 7th International B2B Software Days event from May 8th - 9th, 2023. This remarkable event, organised by the Austrian Enterprise Europe Network (EEN), in collaboration with EEN Cork Chamber, Enterprise Ireland and Dublin Chamber, brought together over 1,000 visionary entrepreneurs, industry experts, investors and innovators from across the globe. Their goal? To connect, collaborate and embrace the cutting-edge trends and advancements in global software development.
Spanning two days, the International B2B Software Days 2023 was held at the resplendent Vienna City Hall, presenting both start-ups and established software businesses the opportunity to strengthen their relationships and forge new international partnerships. An Irish delegation of over 15 companies and organisations travelled to the venue. The first day of the event treated attendees to a vibrant range of informative panel sessions and enlightening keynote speakers. The immersive experience offered participants the opportunity to interact, exchange ideas, and unearth new software development prospects through the B2B meetings, and hands-on workshops. Among the captivating topics that ignited discussion were artificial intelligence, quantum computing, funding possibilities, IP protection, FIWARE applications and blockchain technologies.
IRELAND DAY
The second day, aptly dubbed ‘Ireland Day’, was dedicated to showcasing the best of Irish innovation. Irish organisations took centre stage, delving into the tapestry of the software industry in Ireland and sharing invaluable insights derived from their own remarkable business journeys. The line up of speakers included Edward McDonnell of CeADAR Ireland, Maurice Lynch and John Pugh of Nathean Analytics, Gary Conroy of TransferMate Global Payments, Stephen O’Leary of Olytico, Fiona Delany of Origin Chain Networks and Mark Jordan of Skillnet Ireland. Ireland has long been an international hub for software companies and start-ups. These remarkable speakers showcased Ireland’s enduring allure as a hub for software companies, innovation and start-ups, captivating the audience with the investment and growth opportunities our nation has to offer.
One of the standout workshops at the event was run by CyberSkills Ireland, a cyber security education provider based in Munster Technological University (MTU). They delivered a fascinating workshop on the topic of “Effective AppSec and Cybersecurity Risk Management”. Offering practical advice to safeguard businesses against the ever-evolving digital landscape’s cyber threats, this workshop struck a chord and provided a solid foundation for organisations to remain resilient and secure.
PITCHING BATTLE
Amid the collective triumphs and inspiring moments, one tale emerged as the epitome of success during the event- Everywhere English, a truly inspirational Cork start-up. Kate Popova is the co-founder of the English language learning solution company, which is aimed at ensuring businesses increase their return on investment and maximise profits by helping teams connect and reach their full potential.
Kate is a valued client of EEN Cork Chamber and works closely with EEN Advisor, Grace Kelleher, who has been providing guidance on expanding internationally. Kate successfully applied to take part in the event’s “Pitching Battle” as part of her ongoing work with Grace. The pitching battle afforded the chosen applicants an opportunity to pitch to a judging panel of investors. Kate received pitch coaching in preparation for the event.
