How to Make the Most of Defence Tech Meetup Events, A Guide for Fund Managers
The second edition of the Defence Tech Meetup, held in Lisbon during Web Summit week, brought together a dynamic mix of professionals passionate about reshaping the future of defence technology. From startup founders and investors to representatives of armed forces and government, the evening delivered an exciting lineup of discussions, networking opportunities, and showcases of cutting-edge innovations in maritime security and beyond.
COREangels was proud to have Rui Falcão and Olena Kleiner, representing Angels for Ukraine. This meetup proved to be an incredible platform for fostering meaningful dialogue, sharing ideas, and sparking collaborations within the European and global defence tech ecosystem. Here’s a recap of the highlights and tips for making the most out of events like this as an angel investor.
Setting the Stage: Insights from Industry Leaders
The event began with an engaging introduction by André Marquet of Productized, Maria Luisa Moreira, and Olena Kleiner, who set the tone for an evening filled with expertise and collaboration. Keynote presentations and panels followed, shedding light on the current challenges and innovations shaping maritime security, with insights from the Portuguese Navy and the Hidrographic Institute. These sessions provided invaluable context for understanding the strategic priorities in the defence sector.
Highlights from the Panel Discussions
The panel featured a rich discussion on how startups can engage with major players and secure funding from deep tech investors. COREangels’ own Rui Falcão shared his insights into supporting Ukrainian startups through Angels for Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of angel networks in fostering resilience and innovation in challenging times.
Key Takeaways for Angel Investors
- Come Prepared: Research the event agenda and speakers to identify sessions and participants aligned with your investment interests.
- Engage in Discussions: Panels and presentations often provide valuable clues about emerging trends and market needs.
- Prioritize Networking: Use the informal setting to connect with other investors, founders, and industry leaders. The personal connections you build here could lead to your next great deal.
- Leverage Angel Networks: Events like these highlight the strength of angel networks in driving collaboration and funding innovation in niche sectors.
- Focus on Impact: As Rui and Olena exemplified, investing in solutions that not only yield returns but also contribute positively to society is a winning strategy.
Wrapping Up
The Defence Tech Meetup successfully created a vibrant platform for exchanging ideas, showcasing innovation, and building connections within the defence tech community. For angel investors like those at COREangels, this event was a reminder of the critical role they play in empowering startups to solve some of the world's toughest challenges.
We look forward to seeing how the conversations and collaborations sparked at this event will shape the future of defence technology. And if you’re an angel investor looking to expand your portfolio in this space, events like this are not to be missed!
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