Networking, investor relations and open-mic pitching

In collaboration with The Startup Events and North Eastern University, we are thrilled to host the inaugural event of the Blue Factory, a pioneering initiative designed to connect and empower the start-up ecosystem in London and beyond.

This event marks the beginning of the Blue Factory's mission to actively engage with the local entrepreneurial community, fostering a network of like-minded start-up founders, investors and supporters.

The Blue Factory is distinguished by its unique European architecture, rooted in the rich academic environment of ESCP Business School's campuses across Europe. Our approach is defined by a supportive and inclusive culture that nurtures innovation and collaboration. This event serves as a platform to build a vibrant community, where ideas can flourish, partnerships can be formed and start-ups can access the resources they need to succeed.

The London Blue Factory events bring together hundreds of London start-up founders, investors and a rich mix of start-ups, scale-ups, late-stage tech businesses, academia and the public sector and it's completely free to attend.

The London Blue Factory Startup Events is an informal and networking-focused event.

We are expecting over 150 attendees:

• 60% of them are founders
• 15% investors
• 25% other industry professionals

Founders and investors will have the opportunity to do a one-minute pitch during the event (see the details below).

Start-up and Investor Pitch Sessions: Fast-paced networking

Have a groundbreaking idea or start-up?

You'll have 60 seconds to make your pitch to our founders and a select group of investors. Impress us and you could be on the path to partnership and investment.

But be warned: time waits for no one! If your pitch doesn't hit the mark, it's NEXT.

Get ready for an exhilarating challenge that tests your ability to think on your feet and communicate with impact. Prepare your pitch and join us for a thrilling opportunity to grab the spotlight and make your mark in just one minute. Your start-up's future could be just 60 seconds away!

Open-mic pitching details:

To participate in the Start-up and Investor Pitch Sessions:

• You must be a founder, work for a start-up, or be an investor (we prioritise companies with MVP build and a website)
• Each pitch should be no longer than one minute
• Submissions will be accepted on a rolling basis, so please make us aware through the use of your Eventbrite signup (Tick Yes to be Involved in Pitching), email us, or let us know upon arrival if you want to take part
• The submission deadline is 6:00 pm on the day of the event. The first pitch will begin promptly at 7:00 pm and the final pitch will conclude before 9:30 pm
• 15 start-ups will be able to do a one-minute pitch followed by a live Q&A
• The selection of those who pitch will be randomised for each session of the night

Fireside chat overview

The fireside chat at our inaugural Blue Factory event promises to be an intimate and insightful conversation, designed to delve deep into the challenges and opportunities facing international start-ups in the UK. This session will feature a panel of distinguished experts who bring a wealth of experience and diverse perspectives on entrepreneurship, investment and the current UK business landscape.

Moderated by Dean Williams, senior business consultant at Goldsmith University, the discussion will cover key topics such as:

• International business setup: Insights into the hurdles and strategies for establishing a business in the UK
• Current political and economic landscape: How the evolving environment impacts start-ups and what to anticipate in the future
• Fundraising and scaling: Practical advice on securing investment and overcoming the challenges of scaling a business in London and across the UK
• Personal experiences and tips: Panelists will share their personal journeys, offering valuable lessons and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs
• Expanding across borders: Strategies for successfully taking a business beyond the UK and into international markets

Who should attend

This event will be of particular interest to:

• Founders, co-founders and entrepreneurs
• University Students
• Solopreneurs
• Venture capitalists and angel investors
• Investment leads, managers or associates
• Senior leaders