The Startup Pavilion served as the central hub for the programme, featuring daily presentations from founders across various sectors. Participating companies showcased innovations in event technology, sustainability solutions, workforce development tools, and new agency models. The Future Stage pitch series emerged as a key highlight, where startups presented their concepts to potential investors, many for the first time publicly.

Advisory Board and Partnership Support

A distinguished Advisory Board, including industry experts like Max Fellows from allpoints and Eva Lopez Alvarez from PUNTO MICE, helped shape the programme. The initiative was delivered in partnership with BEFuture, contributing expertise in accelerating innovation within the business events sector.

Positive Response and Future Plans

„What we witnessed through Ignite was remarkable,“ said Claudia Hall, IBTM World Event Director, highlighting the quality of startups and investor engagement. The Ignite Lounge facilitated valuable connections between founders and investors, leading to potential future collaborations. Building on this success, IBTM Ignite will return in 2026 with expanded opportunities for investor access, mentorship, and cross-sector collaboration.