On 12 and 13 September, Steffi Czerny and Maria Furtwängler will bring experts from science, business, politics and society to Munich to present new solutions for biodiversity and business in harmony with nature.
The global startup scene is currently in Israel for the seventh DLD Tel Aviv. More than 1,000 participants are defying the high temperatures and humidity to test the latest innovations, take part in startup pitches, and above all to network, network, network.
Innovative edge made in Israel
Yesterday, the former railway station in Tel Aviv-Yafo, located right by the sea, once again opened its doors for the DLD Tel Aviv conference, which in particular attracts startups from all over the world. DLD in Israel has become a sort of school reunion for the innovation elite, who mix with heads of state and major corporations like Amazon, Google and Microsoft in their search for new talent. Everyone knows everyone here – they meet, network and marvel at the latest technical innovations, which seem to develop faster every year. In Tel Aviv, DLD provides an insight into future tech trends and product innovations that are developed in Silicon Valley and brought to market.
Entrepreneurship: an integral part of the culture
From the moment DLD chairman and Israeli investor Yossi Vardi gave his opening speech, the atmosphere was relaxed and buzzing with anticipation for two inspiring days. As in previous years, the conference started with an impressive drum solo by an 11-year old boy, described by Vardi as probably “the only boy in Tel Aviv who wants to be a drummer rather than set up a company”. This pronounced entrepreneurial spirit can be felt not just in the city, but in the region as a whole – not a trend or a passing fad, but a firm part of the Israeli mentality.
“This distinct curiosity about innovations and a willingness to try and possibly fail are key to why Israel has so many successful startups.”
DLD founder Steffi Czerny
Panels and pitches
In true DLD tradition, attendees looked forward to curated panels on various stages tackling topics such as cyber security, the future of mobility and the reasons for Israel’s innovative edge.
But DLD Tel Aviv has so much more to offer than just a carefully compiled programme: Beyond the panels, meet-ups on topics such as fintech, the Internet of Things and creative thinking invite visitors to expand their minds and network with experts. Startup halls allow them to experience the latest technology, while speed dating offers a chance to talk with members of the global press.
