4YFN/MWC 2025: A Global Hub for Innovation and Investment
The Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025 in Barcelona, alongside its startup-focused counterpart, 4YFN (Four Years From Now), reaffirmed its status as one of the most significant gatherings in the global tech and investment ecosystem. This year, the event brought together 109,000 attendees from 205 countries, matching pre-pandemic records from 2019, with over 2,900 exhibitors and 1,000 startups showcasing groundbreaking innovations.
For COREangels, this event was a powerful opportunity to engage with the startup ecosystem, connect with investors, and explore the latest advancements in technology and fund management. From mentoring startup founders to evaluating cutting-edge AI-driven sales strategies, COREangels made its mark across multiple dimensions of the conference.
Key Observations from 4YFN/MWC 2025
Urs Rothmayr, leader of COREangels Barcelona fund, highlighted several key trends that emerged from this year's event:
- AI Everywhere: From telcos to mobility startups, AI is no longer a buzzword but a core component of business strategies. The focus is shifting from experimentation to real-world applications with measurable ROI.
- Corporate Venture Capital (CVC) on the Rise: Large corporations are increasing their participation in startup funding, looking to accelerate innovation and stay ahead in rapidly evolving industries. Read more about our take on CVCs.
- The Shift from Unicorns to Camels: Investors and founders are moving away from the ‘growth-at-all-costs’ model, focusing instead on sustainable, resilient business models.
- Deep Tech is Gaining Ground: With advancements in quantum computing, next-gen semiconductors, and space tech, Europe is making bold moves to compete globally.
COREangels Barcelona: Leading Startup Engagement at 4YFN
COREangels Barcelona fund leader Urs Rothmayr was at the forefront of the event, actively participating in high-profile activities that underscored the role of COREangels in fostering innovation, supporting startups, and engaging with the investor community.
Key Highlights from Urs' Week at 4YFN/MWC 2025:
Jury Member for Startup Pitching Sessions
Urs had the honor of being part of the jury panel for Monday’s Startup Pitching Session, evaluating and offering strategic feedback to 15 high-potential startups with global ambitions.
Meeting with Investee Startups
Catching up with Triple, a portfolio company led by Mario Navarro, Urs helped facilitate crucial introductions with investors, customers, and partners, reinforcing the startup’s growth trajectory.
Strengthening Investor Relations
Meetings with COREangels’ partner-investors provided an opportunity to discuss the latest updates from the COREangels Barcelona portfolio, align on investment strategies, and explore new opportunities for collaboration.
Networking & Ecosystem Engagement
Some of the most valuable connections happen in the corridors and coffee breaks, and Urs made the most of impromptu networking opportunities, engaging with co-investors, ecosystem friends, and new industry players.
Exploring Groundbreaking Technologies
A standout moment was his deep dive into Cortical Labs, where Rodrigo Menchaca Betancur showcased the first neuron-based biological computer, demonstrating how the lines between digital and organic intelligence are becoming increasingly blurred.
Attending Side Events & Strategic Afterparties
Beyond the formal sessions, Urs was actively present at side events and afterparties, which serve as crucial networking opportunities. These social settings often spark unexpected partnerships and investment opportunities.
Scaling Sales and Partnerships: AI’s Role in Startup Growth
One of the most insightful discussions at 4YFN was led by Eugenia Dunaeva, who spoke about B2B sales strategies for startups, focusing on the role of AI in sales and building high-impact partnerships.
Key Takeaways from the AI & Sales Strategy Session:
The Real Reason Startups Struggle with Sales Pipelines
Many founders assume that weak sales performance stems from a lack of deal closers. However, the core issue is often an ineffective system for lead generation, nurturing, and conversion.
AI’s Expanding Role in B2B Sales
AI is revolutionizing sales strategies beyond mere automation. Smart AI tools are now capable of:
- Identifying high-quality leads
- Optimizing outreach strategies
- Analyzing market trends in real-time
The Right Time to Hire Sales & Partnerships Talent
Startups often struggle with timing their first key sales hires. Eugenia discussed how to:
- Recognize when your startup is ready to scale its sales team
- Find sales leaders who align with the company’s growth phase
- Leverage AI and data-driven approaches to build high-impact partnerships
The session also featured insightful discussions with industry leaders, including an interview with Perplexity's Ryan Foutty, a Google Cloud networking event, and the thrilling startup pitch competition, where Bankuish emerged as the winner.
MWC 2025: A Record-Breaking Year for Innovation
Beyond COREangels' direct involvement, MWC 2025 and 4YFN delivered remarkable milestones that demonstrated the global impact of the event.
- 109,000 attendees from 205 countries, solidifying MWC as the premier tech gathering.
- 2,900 exhibitors and 1,000 startups showcased groundbreaking technologies and innovations.
- The launch of the Talent Arena, attracting 20,000+ participants focused on tech careers and hiring.
- AI’s dominance in discussions, proving that AI is no longer a trend but a core driver of industry transformation.
These achievements underscore why 4YFN and MWC remain essential platforms for startups, investors, and tech leaders worldwide.
COREangels' Commitment to Innovation and Investment
COREangels' presence at 4YFN and MWC 2025 was more than just participation—it was a strategic move to empower startups, bridge connections, and explore groundbreaking technologies.
- For Startups: We provide funding, mentorship, and connections to scale innovative ideas.
- For Investors: We facilitate partnerships and curate high-potential investment opportunities.
- For the Ecosystem: We engage with thought leaders to drive conversations around AI, venture capital, and startup growth strategies.
By actively engaging in startup pitching, investor networking, AI-driven sales strategy discussions, and emerging technology showcases, COREangels reinforced its leadership in the early-stage investment space.
What’s Next? Get Involved with COREangels
COREangels is on a mission to support the next generation of startups and fund managers. Whether you're an entrepreneur looking for funding or an investor seeking high-impact opportunities, there's a place for you in our community.
- Join our network and be part of the future of angel investing.
- Learn more about COREangels' funds and investment opportunities here.
- Until next year, 4YFN and MWC—see you in 2026!
