The Power of Connection and Creativity at Venturefest South’s biggest event yet
21st November 2024
From inspiring talks to groundbreaking ideas, find out what made #VFS24 the South’s most unforgettable Innovation Festival to date
Collaboration, creativity and knowledge – sharing created valuable opportunities for a record number of businesses, innovators, and industry leaders at this year’s Venturefest South Festival of Innovation – the biggest and best to date.
#VFS24 revolved around three key themes —Seed, Grow, and Sell — each reflecting a vital stage of the entrepreneurial journey. These themes provided a clear framework for visitors, guiding them through the phases of business development, from nurturing initial ideas to scaling operations and achieving market success. With tailored talks, workshops, and activities, attendees could easily navigate the event and focus on the content most relevant to their business goals.
A Showcase of Talent and Innovation
The festival, at Southampton’s Utilita Bowl, buzzed with activity across the Innovation Zone, where startups and established businesses shared their groundbreaking ideas. Themes like gaming, biotech, ocean science, and online security took centre stage, showcasing the South’s innovative spirit.
Ed Gould, Chair of Venturefest South, reflected on the event’s success:
“#VFS24 has raised the bar once again, proving that the South is a leading force shaping the innovation landscape. The talent and groundbreaking concepts on display highlight the South’s rapidly expanding influence in tech and innovation. It’s an exciting time for the region.”
Key Highlights from #VFS24
- Over 1,000 attendees participated in this year’s festival.
- 60+ new businesses pitched to investors, securing valuable connections.
- Award winners were celebrated for their groundbreaking innovations.
- A huge amount of funding and support opportunities were showcased.
With an impressive list of recognised names, this year’s partners included Blake Morgan; Arts University Bournemouth; Barclays Eagle Labs, Openshaw & Co., National Biofilms Innovation Centre, Innovate UK ICURE, FSE Group, National Oceanography Centre, DSTL, South Hampshire College Group, Innovate UK, University of Winchester, University of Southampton, University of Portsmouth, British Business Bank, Creative Network South, Solent Partners and award-winning, integrated creative comms agency Carswell Gould.
A Catalyst for Growth
Over the past year, Venturefest South’s programme has supported more than 10,000 businesses and individuals. With the festival as its flagship event, the initiative continues to drive collaboration, investment, and progress across the region.
Susan Elliott, Senior Manager at the British Business Bank, praised the event:
“This year’s festival spanned all stages of the business journey, featuring hands-on showcases, expert speakers, and valuable conversations among entrepreneurs, investors, universities, and business support providers.”
Susan Elliott’s glowing review was echoed by many attendees, including Team Openshaw & Co., who described the event as “a hive of activity” filled with engaging keynotes, valuable advice, and fascinating discussions.
“It was wonderful to meet so many people face-to-face for the first time,” they shared, “as well as reconnect with familiar faces, including our clients.”
#VFS24 provided the perfect platform for innovators, businesses, and thought leaders to come together, exchange ideas, and build lasting relationships—all within the buzzing atmosphere of the Festival of Innovation.
The National Biofilms Innovation Centre (NBIC) also praised #VFS24 as “an important event in the innovation calendar.”
Thrilled to connect with SMEs and innovators interested in microbiology and biofilms, NBIC highlighted their extensive support services, including their upcoming Proof of Concept funding round, Innovation Voucher scheme, Flexible Talent Mobility Account scheme, and Industry Membership opportunities.
The collaboration and knowledge-sharing at #VFS24 continue to create valuable opportunities for businesses and innovators alike. If you’re interested in NBIC’s initiatives, reach out at nbic@biofilms.ac.uk to discover how they can support your innovation journey.
Likewise, to help start-ups and early-stage businesses get off the ground and into the market Blake Morgan has developed a bespoke fixed fee package as a practical and cost-effective solution to many of our relevant legal services. Find out more here.
Inspiring Speakers and Interactive Experiences
The day kicked off with a rousing speech from the event’s curator and Creative Director of Carswell Gould, Ed Gould. Following his introduction was keynote speaker Mike Hawkyard, discussing his journey developing successful studios, launching chart-topping games, and earning great recognition, including a BAFTA nomination and multiple industry awards.
At the heart of #VFS24, The Innovation Zone hosted the highly anticipated Innovation Talks. Visionary speakers such as Charlotte Day from New Forest Ice Cream, Gareth Miller of Carswell Gould, and Henry Cheetham from Elite Team Scalers shared insights and sparked debates on key themes – driving innovation and business growth, offering attendees invaluable knowledge and inspiration. Learn more about our VFS24 Speakers.
The Inspiration Hub was a hive of activity, featuring quick-fire workshops designed to equip attendees with actionable insights and practical skills. From expert-led sessions on developing a pitch, protecting your IP to taking on staff, navigating digital marketing, and understanding angel investment, the interactive discussions empowered entrepreneurs to take their ideas to the next level.
Bringing together innovators, investors, and organisations, The Investment Zone facilitated invaluable connections. This dynamic space provided a platform for game-changing conversations, accelerating investment opportunities and forging partnerships to drive future success.
Celebrating a decade of the ICURe programme with cake, within The Think Hub some of our VFS partners showcased cutting-edge initiatives like the NOC Innovator accelerator programme and the Deal Readiness Toolkit. Collaborations with Innovate UK through the No Limits programme and the University of Southampton highlighted the tools and support available for tomorrow’s innovators.
Home to the region’s emerging talent, The New Entrepreneurs Zone provided a platform for fresh ideas and groundbreaking projects. It also hosted the famous Open Mic competition. This lively, interactive pitching competition was open to everyone bold enough to participate —no matter their experience level, investment readiness, or stage of development. Participants had just three minutes to present their innovation to a panel of expert judges and a dynamic audience of innovators, investors, and fellow entrepreneurs.
In the Ocean Hub, led by the National Oceanography Centre, attendees explored cutting-edge maritime innovations, such as Optima, ecoSUB Robotics and many more.
The newly-introduced Gaming Zone was a hit, featuring interactive arcade experiences and showcasing the region’s gaming talent, including projects from local developers.
Celebrating Innovation: VFS24 Award Winners
The day concluded with the highly-anticipated award ceremony, celebrating outstanding achievements in innovation across three categories.
Innovator of the Year was awarded to Securium for its impactful advancements in online security, demonstrating remarkable innovation and industry influence. A special mention also goes to the runners-up, Renovos and Z-pulse, for their exceptional contributions to the innovation landscape.
Early-Stage Innovator Award went to MyTender.IO, recognised for its promising potential in transforming procurement processes. The award also acknowledged the impressive work of runner-up Pink Cow Theatre, showcasing creativity and vision.
Finally, the Open Mic Champion title was claimed by Enertor, whose captivating pitch left a lasting impression on the judges by revealing how Enetor is revolutionising foot health with advanced insoles designed to improve performance and reduce injury risk for athletes and everyday users alike. Congratulations also to runners-up Renovos and Astratus, who delivered compelling presentations and innovative ideas.
These awards highlight the incredible talent, creativity, and ambition within the South’s innovation ecosystem, making #VFS24 a truly memorable event.
Looking Ahead
As the South solidifies its reputation as a hub for innovation, the future looks brighter than ever for entrepreneurs and businesses in the region.
Get ready for more exciting events in the Venturefest South programme, including the upcoming rumble, Where is the Money, on 27th November, focusing on funding opportunities and investment strategies.
Head over to Eventbrite to secure your tickets for #VFS25, but hurry – tickets are free until the 30th of November.
