EUROPE’S NEXT WAVE

START Summit 2025

This is your moment! Be part of europe's largest early-stage Startup event!


20. - 21. March, St. Gallen, Switzerland

START Summit 2025
In numbers

7000 +

Event
Participants

150 +

Expert
Speakers

20 +

Unicorns
on Stage

1000 +

Investors

check out our speakers
at start summit 2025

Jeannette zu Fürstenberg

La Famiglia &
General Catalyst


Dr. Jeannette zu Fürstenberg is Managing Director at General Catalyst (GC), leading its European business. She is also Founding Partner of La Famiglia VC, one of Europe’s most distinguished early-stage venture capital platforms. Today, La Famiglia VC is the nucleus of General Catalyst’s Global Seed Investment Program. Jeannette’s early investment wins include Deel, Forto, Groq, Helsing, Mistral, and Personio.

Thomas Wolf

Co-Founder of
Hugging Face 


Thomas Wolf is the co-founder and Chief Science Officer (CSO) of Hugging Face, a leading open-source platform in AI and machine learning. He is the creator of widely-used tools like the Transformers and Datasets libraries and a driving force behind open-science initiatives such as the BigScience Workshop, which led to the development of the BLOOM language model. With a Ph.D. in Statistical and Quantum Physics and a background as a Patent Attorney, Thomas brings a multidisciplinary approach to advancing accessibility and innovation in AI.

Matt Cohler

Partner at
Benchmark

Matt is a partner at Benchmark, where for over a decade he led early-stage investments in Internet and software startups. Prior to Benchmark, he was vice president at Facebook as the company’s seventh employee, and vice president at LinkedIn, where he was part of the founding team. He currently serves on the board of directors at public companies like KKR, Asana, and 1stdibs, as well as private companies such as DeepL. He previously held board positions at major companies including Instagram, Tinder, and Uber.

Dr. Klaus Hommels

Founder & Chairman, Lakestar / Chairman, NATO Innovation Fund

A leading force in venture capital and defense tech, Dr. Klaus Hommels has shaped Europe’s innovation landscape through Lakestar, one of the continent’s top VC firms, and as Chairman of the NATO Innovation Fund. Recognized multiple times on the Midas List, he has backed transformative startups while steering critical investments in defense and security technology. With Europe at a turning point, his insights into defense-tech and strategic investments are more relevant than ever.

Carsten Koerl

Founder of Sportradar
& Bwin


Carsten Koerl is the founder of two unicorns: Sportradar and Bwin. As CEO of Sportradar, he transformed the company into a global leader in sports data and betting technology, taking it public on Nasdaq in 2021. His entrepreneurial journey began in 1997 with the creation of Bwin, which he led to a successful IPO in 2000. In 2015, Sportradar attracted investment from Michael Jordan and Mark Cuban, further fueling its expansion and cementing its position as a leader in the industry.

Cornelius
Menke

Sequoia

Cornelius Menke is a Partner at Sequoia, focusing on seed and early-stage investments. Growing up in Northern Germany, he developed a deep curiosity for technology, which led him to gain hands-on experience at companies like Udacity, KRY, and Klarna. With a background in machine learning and network analytics, he later worked at BCG, advising software companies on emerging technologies. At Sequoia, Cornelius seeks founders with a strong mix of curiosity and execution speed, with a particular interest in automation, manufacturing, and AI-driven supply chains.

Investors Attending
start summit!

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SPEAKER QUOTES at
START SUMMIT

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Startups that attended
start summit in their early days

GET YOUR TICKET!

WHY EVERYONE is ATTENDING
START SUMMIT 2025!

INCREASE YOUR DEALFLOW

10.000 Investor - Founder meetings

Extend your network

Meet 1000+
investors

89%

of investors want to revisit in 25'

Back the next generation of disruptors

3'000 passionate talents on-site

Investor formats & events

2024 side events, 2025 side events will be announced soon!

Investor Night

Hosted by RedAlpine
We're inviting investors and a select number of founders to an exclusive gathering for a chance to connect in a relaxed setting before START Summit rush begins. The Investor Night will foster an exclusive environment for visionary and innovative personalities. Starting with a reception during the day, we'll conclude the evening with an exclusive party.

GP X LP DINNER

Presented by Founderful, Co-hosted by Merantix and the Swiss Entrepreneurs Foundation
The evening before START Summit, we invite a select number of partners to partake in an exclusive dining experience at one of the best restaurants in St. Gallen. The by-application-only GP x LP Dinner provides attendees with the opportunity to network in a relaxed atmosphere and establish lasting partnerships within the Swiss LP community.

COFFEE AT THE CAP TABLE: CAVALRY'S INVESTOR BREAKFAST

Hosted by Cavalry Ventures
Cavalry is excited to kick off START Summit in St. Gallen with an intimate investor breakfast, where we'll delve into the current state of markets, tech trends, fund and angel investing, and emerging investment opportunities. Our focus is on bringing together the investor community at START Summit right in the beginning to facilitate shared agendas and networking opportunities.

FOLD OR FORTUNE: THE START SUMMIT POKER NIGHT

Hosted by Casino St. Gallen
The St. Gallen Casino will provide game credit for the first players to arrive. To ensure that the tournament can start on time and to avoid a traffic jam at check-in (as all first-time guests must be registered), it is advisable to arrive on time and, if possible, staggered. An officially issued document is mandatory for admission! Authorized documents for admission include a passport, identity card, or driver's license.

WHO ATTENDS
START SUMMIT?

7'000 participants include:

Get your Investor
ticket now!

Investor

899.-

Exclusively crafted for venture capitalists and seasoned investors, the Investor/VC Ticket unlocks privileged access to Europe's most promising Startups and high-potential scaleups at START Summit 2024. Immerse yourself in curated pitching sessions, one-on-one meetings with visionary founders, and unparalleled networking opportunities, all geared towards discovering investment gems that align with your portfolio objectives.

Matchmaking Tool Workshops VIP Lounge Fast Lane Entry Priority Registration for Side Events & Formats Company Profile Access to Afterparty
BUY TICKETS!

FAQ

General
Tickets
Investors

FAQ

General

What is START Summit?

START Summit is Europe’s leading student-run conference for entrepreneurship and technology, bringing together over 7000 startups, investors, corporates, and young talents for two days of inspiring stage sessions, hands-on workshops, and high-impact networking.

With a strong focus on innovation, fundraising, and ecosystem-building, START Summit provides a unique platform for early-stage startups to connect with investors, for corporates to discover disruptive ideas, and for students to dive into the world of entrepreneurship.

Beyond the main conference, START Summit offers exclusive side events, pitching competitions, and interactive sessions to maximize learning and networking opportunities. Whether you’re looking to build, invest, or connect, START Summit is the place to be

Where and when will START Summit 2025 take place?
START Summit 2025 will be held at the Olma Halls in St. Gallen, Switzerland, on March 20–21, 2025. Additionally, we will host a special Day-0 event on March 19 for selected startups, investors, media representatives, and partners. Details about applications will be shared through our social channels once they open.
How do I get to St. Gallen and where can I stay during START Summit?

Public transport:

By bus: From St. Gallen Train Station, take bus lines 3, 4, or 6 to the stop “Olma Messen”.

By train: The nearest train station is St. Gallen St. Fiden, located just a 4-minute walk from the Olma Halls. However, if you’re arriving at St. Gallen Train Station, you can also reach the venue conveniently by taking bus lines 3, 4, or 6 to the “Olma Messen” stop.

By plane: The closest airport is Zürich Airport, approximately one hour by train from St. Gallen.

Accommodation:

We’ve pre-selected several hotels for attendees. You can find details about the hotels in St. Gallen here. If you prefer a quieter stay, there are also excellent hotels just outside the city, only about 20 minutes away by public transport.

How can I register for the online platform?
Our online platform will open about three weeks before the event. Registering on the platform is essential for making the most of your START Summit experience. After purchasing your ticket, you will receive a registration link via email approximately three weeks before the event. The platform will allow you to schedule meetings, sign up for workshops, and register for side events. Be sure to sign up early and download the mobile app before attending!
Can I schedule meetings in advance?
Yes! Pre-scheduling meetings is key to making your START Summit experience as productive as possible. You can use filters to search for participants based on nationality, industry, and job role and book meetings through the online platform or mobile app. These features will be available as soon as the platform is launched.
Do I need to pre-register for workshops and side events?

Yes, workshops have limited seating, so you’ll need to register in advance before spots fill up. Workshop registration is available via our online platform.

For side events, you can browse and apply to participate via our event page. Additional side events will be announced over time, so keep checking back for updates and sign up for our newsletter!

What are the START Summit Side Events

START Summit side events take place before, during, and after the main event, creating unique networking and learning opportunities beyond the conference itself. These events include exclusive investor dinners, startup meetups, industry-specific gatherings, and casual networking sessions across St. Gallen. They allow attendees to connect in a more personal setting, making START Summit a truly immersive experience.

New side events will be announced regularly, so keep an eye on our website and social channels for updates!

Can I meet the speakers in person
Yes! Many of our top speakers will host Ask-Me-Anything (AMA) sessions after their stage appearances. These sessions have limited capacity, but they offer a unique opportunity to interact with speakers directly.
When should I arrive in St. Gallen?
We recommend arriving in St. Gallen on March 19, 2025, the day before START Summit officially begins, especially if you are attending one of our Day-0 events. Please ensure you apply in advance, as access is not guaranteed.
I have a large community that wants to attend START Summit. Can I become a network partner?
Absolutely! We are always looking for new network partners to bring great communities to START Summit. If you’re interested in collaborating with us, please reach out at growth@startsummit.ch, and we’ll be happy to discuss potential partnership opportunities.
How do I contact the START Summit team
You can reach out to us anytime at growth@startsummit.ch regarding any questions you may come up with. For bulk ticket purchases or any questions regarding your visit, also feel free to contact us via email. We’ll be happy to assist you!

Tickets

How can I purchase a ticket for START Summit 2025, and what payment methods are available?

You can purchase your ticket directly on our ticket page. We accept a wide range of payment methods, including debit and credit cards, PayPal, Twint, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and many more.

If none of these options work for you, please contact us at growth@startsummit.ch, and we’ll do our best to assist you.

What are the different ticket types?

We offer different ticket categories for Startups, Investors, Students, Corporates, and General Attendees. All tickets provide access to the two-day event and the full START Summit experience, including networking opportunities, stage sessions, and side events.

However, some workshops and side events may be exclusive to specific ticket categories. You can find a detailed overview of what each ticket includes on our ticket page.

Where can I find my ticket?

After purchasing your ticket, you will receive a confirmation email with your invoice. A few weeks before the event, you’ll also receive an invitation link to register on our event platform and be able to access your ticket trough the event app.

Your QR ticket for check-in will be generated shortly before the event, so don’t worry if you don’t have it yet! Just make sure to sign up on the event platform as soon as you receive the registration link.

Can I buy tickets on behalf of my team or colleagues?
Yes, you can purchase multiple tickets for your team or other attendees. During checkout, you’ll be asked to assign each ticket to the correct participant. This allows you to complete all purchases in one transaction while ensuring each attendee is properly registered.
Can I transfer my ticket to someone else or update my details?

Yes, ticket transfers and information changes are possible, but only under special circumstances. If you are unable to attend due to unforeseen events or need to update your registration details, please contact us at growth@startsummit.ch.

When and where do I get my START Summit badge?

To speed up check-in and avoid long lines, we will offer pre-badge pickup at various locations, such as Zürich Airport and St. Gallen Train Station, in the days leading up to the event.

The exact pickup locations and times will be announced before the event. If you don’t pick up your badge in advance, you can still collect it on-site at the venue.

Will I be refunded if I can’t attend?
START Summit tickets are generally non-refundable. However, in cases of extenuating circumstances, we may be able to offer a refund. If you are unable to attend due to unforeseen events, please reach out to us at growth@startsummit.ch, and we’ll review your case.
Do I need to print my ticket?
No, there’s no need to print your ticket! Your QR code ticket will be available on our event app, and you’ll simply need to show it at check-in to claim your badge and enter the event.
Can you help with my visa application?
Before reaching out, please check the Swiss visa requirements for your country. Once you have the necessary information, email us at growth@startsummit.ch, and we’ll assist you in obtaining the required documentation.
Can I buy tickets in bulk?
Yes, we offer bulk ticket purchases. If you are interested in buying a large number of tickets for your organization or group, please contact us at growth@startsummit.ch, and we’ll provide further details.
Does every member of my startup need their own ticket?
Yes, every ticket is valid for one person only. If multiple team members from your startup are attending, each person will need their own ticket.

Investors

Who is eligible to purchase an Investor ticket?

The Investor ticket is designed for decision-makers from firms interested in investing in startups or venture capital funds. This includes:

  • Venture Capitalists (VCs)
  • Angel Investors
  • Limited Partners (LPs)
  • Corporate Venture Capitalists (CVCs)

If you’re actively looking to invest in early-stage startups and high-growth ventures, the Investor ticket provides full access to START Summit’s networking, deal-making, and exclusive investor events after application.

What opportunities does START Summit offer for investors?

START Summit provides investors with a dynamic environment to connect with startups, fellow investors, and key players in the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Key opportunities include:

  • Meeting early-stage startups across multiple industries.
  • Applying for the exclusive Investor Day-0 event, designed for high-level networking and discussions.
  • Using the in-app Matchmaking tool to schedule 1:1 meetings with startups and investors before the event.
  • Gaining insights into emerging sectors through keynote speeches and panel discussions.

With thousands of entrepreneurs and investors in attendance, START Summit is the ideal place to build connections and explore new investment opportunities.

What kind of startups can I find at START Summit?

START Summit attracts startups from a wide variety of industries, including:

  • FinTech
  • SaaS
  • DeepTech & Hardware
  • Consumer Tech
  • HealthTech & BioTech
  • AI & Data
  • SpaceTech
  • DefenseTech
  • Sustainability & Impact
  • GreenTech & ClimateTech
  • Mobility & Transportation
  • Cybersecurity
  • AgriTech & FoodTech
  • EdTech
  • Web3 & Blockchain
  • SportsTech & Gaming
  • IndustrialTech
  • PropTech & ConTech

Most startups at the event are in the pre-Seed, Seed, and Series A stages, but later-stage companies also attend to network and explore new partnerships.

Where can I get data about the companies and startups attending START Summit?
Once you have registered on our event app, you will gain access to the full list of attendees, including all participating startups. This allows you to explore startup profiles, research their backgrounds, and plan your meetings in advance.
What is the Investor Day 0 Event?

The Investor Day-0 event is an exclusive, application-only pre-Summit gathering taking place on March 19, 2025. It is designed specifically for investors and includes:

  • High-level networking with VCs, LPs, Angels, and CVCs.
  • Industry insights and discussions on emerging investment trends.
  • Curated matchmaking opportunities to connect with startups and fellow investors.

As space is limited, participation is by application only. More details will follow soon.

Can I book 1o1 meetings with startups or others prior to the event?

Yes! Our Matchmaking tool, available through the START Summit app, allows you to connect in advance with:

  • Startups looking for investors and funding.
  • Fellow investors for co-investment opportunities.
  • Industry leaders and potential business partners.

The tool lets you filter attendees by industry, funding stage, and nationality, making it easy to find the right connections before the event even begins.

Can my company make an announcement at START Summit?

Yes! If your company or fund would like to make a special announcement - such as a new fund closing, a major partnership, or a product launch - START Summit provides a great platform to reach a highly engaged audience.

For more details and possibilities, please reach out to us at growth@startsummit.ch.

Got a question for us? Get in touch

CONTACT THE START GLOBAL TEAM