Don’t miss Innovation Talks at #VFS24!
The Innovation Zone isn’t complete without the Innovation Talks! Join our expert speakers and panelists. We’re shaking it up a little this year with each of our Innovation Talks sessions containing two short talks and a panel session – there’s a multitude of knowledge for you to gain in these one-hour sessions!
This year, our Innovation Talks are sponsored by our wonderful partner, Barclays Eagle Labs.
Early-Stage Innovation and Investment: 11:00 – 12:00
Explore the initial stages of business development, focusing on innovative ideas, early-stage funding, and building a strong foundation.
Host: Mark Rands, Barclays Eagle Labs
Session 1: From Idea to MVP: Validating Your Startup Concept with Dr. Giovannie Jean-Louis, PROBr
The path from idea to entrepreneurial success, overcoming the challenges of imposter syndrome, and turning innovation into a thriving business. Gain insights into the emotional and strategic rollercoaster of innovation, learning how to overcome self-doubt and capitalise on opportunities.
Session 2: Securing Seed Funding: What Investors Look For with Amanda Green, Jigsaw Journeys
Insights into the seed funding process. What investors look for in early-stage startups, including pitch tips and financial considerations.
Panel: Funding and Business Support in the South
With: Chris Hill: SETSquared, Roya Croudace: Hampshire County Council, Cheryl Weeks: FSE Group, Di Galpin: University of Southampton, Dominic Clacy: Openshaw & Co.
Q&A: Your chance to get involved!
Scaling and Revenue Growth: 12:30 – 13:30
Focus on the challenges and strategies involved in scaling a business, driving revenue growth, and entering new markets.
Host: Timo Peach, Momotempo
Session 1: Real-World Strategies for Growth with Charlotte Day, New Forest Ice Cream
Strategic and operational shifts required to successfully scale a business. Real-world experiences of navigating the challenges of rapid growth with practical strategies to scale efficiently while maintaining quality and company culture, with insights directly from a leader who’s been through the journey.
Session 2: Mastering the Art of Acquisition and Loyalty with Gareth Miller, Carswell Gould
Explore effective strategies for acquiring new customers and retaining existing ones. The importance of branding, digital marketing, and customer relationship management (CRM).
Panel: Expanding into New Markets: Risks and Rewards
With: Gareth Miller: Carswell Gould, Stefan Knox: Bang Creations, Sue Elliott: British Business Bank, Charlotte Day: New Forest Ice Cream, Elisabeth Bell, Blake Morgan
Q&A: Your chance to get involved!
Long-Term Success and Innovation: 14:00 – 15:00
Focus on the challenges and strategies involved in scaling a business, driving revenue growth, and entering new markets.
Host: Timo Peach, Momotempo
Session 1: Innovate: How the world’s best teams leverage the only sustainable competitive advantage with Henry Cheetham, Elite Team Scalers
The essential ingredients for innovation including the environment, organisational structure and leadership style.
Session 2: Exit Strategy Mastery: Preparing Your Business for a Profitable Sale with Fleur Hicks, Hicks Global Consulting
Key steps in preparing a business for sale, timing the sale, maximising valuation, and navigating the complexities of the selling process. What buyers are looking for, how to position your business as an attractive acquisition target, and strategies for negotiating a successful exit.
Panel: Balancing Innovation, Sustainability, Intellectual Property, and Exit Opportunities
With: Richard Salt: Fyn, Fleur Hicks: Hicks Global Consulting, Henry Cheetham: Elite Team Scalers, Dominic Clacy: Openshaw & Co., Janet Hadfield: Hampshire College Group, Stephen Archibald, Blake Morgan
Q&A: Your chance to get involved!
Where’s the money? 15:30 – 16:15
Securing investment and strategies for successful sales, featuring real-world stories from experienced entrepreneurs. Gain valuable tips, tools, and advice from experts and organisations dedicated to helping you succeed.
Host: Sue Elliott: British Business Bank
Keynote: TBC
Panel session: Sue Elliott: British Business Bank, Dominic Clacy, Openshaw & Co., Tim Coles: Blake Morgan, TBC: FSE Group, TBC: YFM Equity Partners, TBC: Innovate UK Investment Team
