Web Summit is one of the world’s largest technology conferences and trade shows in Europe. The event, held in Lisbon, gathers a diverse public such as tech industry leaders, innovative startups, investors, and professionals from diverse sectors to discuss emerging technologies, trends, and solutions impacting businesses and societies globally.

1. What Can You Do

There's plenty to do at Web Summit, and how you navigate the event will depend on your goals. Whether you’re there to network, discover new tech, or learn from industry leaders, planning your experience around clear objectives is key. Here are some of the opportunities:

1.1. Attend Tech Conferences

There are more than one thousand sessions hosted by industry leaders, offering insight into top trends, new technologies, and groundbreaking ideas. Web Summit conferences span from 30 different topics such as Technology, Entrepreneurship, Artificial Intelligence, Marketing, Climate Tech, Health Tec, FinTech and others.

1.2. Explore the Global Startup Scene

With more than 3.000 startups in the 3 exhibition days we can delve how startups are innovating across various sectors. Engaging with them can also help understand their unique approaches to problem-solving but also offers insights into emerging markets and potential partnerships.

1.3. Identify Promising Startups

There are more than one thousand startups on display, with sectores very well defined within the showroom: early startups are in the “Alpha” Sectors, while more mature startups are in the “Beta” sector. There are startups from all over the world so you can have a global feeling of what fields are trending. Investors can discover opportunities with high growth potential while also meeting the teams.

1.4. Showcase Your Startup

Web Summit provides an opportunity to founders to present their unique startup or idea to a receptive audience eager to discover opportunities. You can practice communicating your vision through pitches or product demos exhibits, while networking with potential customers, investors or partners. You can book a Startup Booth, which normally costs between 500 and 1000 Euros, or you put your laptop in your backpack and network around the trade show.

1.5. Networking Opportunities

Web Summit presents a wealth of networking opportunities that can significantly benefit everyone's personal, professional or business journey. By engaging with industry leaders, fellow entrepreneurs and with the attendees one can build valuable connections that can lead to collaborations, partnerships, and mentorships. These connections can then open doors to new business opportunities and provide a platform for exchanging knowledge and experiences.

1.6. Visit Lisbon

If you’re coming to Lisbon for Web Summit, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the beautiful city of Lisbon. The city is very well known for its stunning architecture, vibrant neighborhoods, and rich history.

After a day of networking and learning, take some time to wander through the charming streets of Alfama, enjoy panoramic views from the city's many viewpoints, or relax at a local café with the “Typical” pastel de nata.

The city’s cultural offerings are vast, from historic landmarks like the Belém Tower to contemporary art at the Museu Coleção Berardo. Don’t miss the delicious Portuguese cuisine while immersing yourself with the new friends and connections you’ve made at Web Summit.

2. Tips to Make the Most of Your Web Summit Experience

Through our experience with global events, we have learned that each one is unique, with its strong points and their drawbacks. Some events are more formal such as the ones focused in meetings, requiring a more straight to the point and business conversion mentality, while others are more casual and are there to convey information and to foster connections. Web Summit fits in the last category.

In both cases, preparing in advance can make the difference. We have prepared a few tips that can help you make the most of it:

2.1. Set Clear Goals

Approach the event with a purpose! Define exactly what you want to achieve, whether it’s meeting specific people, discovering new technologies, or seeking potential partnerships.

Craft a concise pitch that conveys your mission and value clearly. Setting these goals helps you stay focused and maximize your time by targeting relevant sessions, exhibitors, and attendees.

Having clear objectives and a strong pitch will also make you more memorable to the connections you make, building a foundation for meaningful, lasting relationships.

2.2. Plan Meetings Ahead

Maximize your networking by planning meetings in advance. Use the Web Summit app to explore the full list of exhibitors, speakers, and attendees you’re interested in connecting with.

Message them directly through the app, or reach out via LinkedIn to set up short coffee meetups or quick chats between sessions.

Focus on building authentic connections rather than pushing sales right away—show interest in their work, understand their objectives, share your insights, and look for ways to collaborate. Establishing a genuine connection opens doors for deeper discussions after the event.

2.3. Forget Business Cards

Traditional business cards are becoming obsolete in fast-paced, digital-focused environments like Web Summit. Instead, make use of the Web Summit App to connect directly with people, or even better, exchange emails or WhatsApp numbers for quick access.

2.4. Visit Booths Strategically

Identify the right contact to speak with before diving in. Often, the first person you meet at a booth may not have the information or authority you need.

When speaking for the first time, take time to understand their role and show genuine interest in their work. Establishing a real connection before steering the conversation toward your goals.

Building rapport is key - focusing on trust and interest will make your discussions more productive in the long run.

2.5. Limit Conference Sessions

If your primary goal is networking, prioritize making connections over attending sessions. While conference talks offer valuable insights, most of this content is available online.

Web Summit is a rare opportunity for face-to-face networking - make the most of it by focusing on meeting people and building relationships.

You can still do conferences, but aim for a balanced approach between learning and networking. This way, you’ll walk away with valuable insights and build meaningful connections that are unique to the event and can’t be easily replicated elsewhere.

2.6. Side Events

Web Summit has a wide range of side events, normally organized by groups of people that have something in common, like Investing or that come from a certain country.

They are excellent opportunities to foster relationships, exchange information and meet new people. Web Summit events provide a more casual setting to connect, allowing you to engage in meaningful conversations without the pressure of a formal pitch.

Avoid focusing on selling yourself or your product - use this time to listen, exchange ideas, and get to know others in the industry on a personal level. These deeper connections often lay the groundwork for future collaborations, partnerships, and business opportunities that grow naturally from shared interests and conversational match.

2.7. Enjoy yourself

Not everyone heads to Web Summit with a strict agenda, and that’s perfectly fine. In fact, many people attend simply to be inspired, explore new ideas, and enjoy the experience of being around like-minded innovators.

Take this opportunity to step away from your routine, recharge, and embrace the dynamic environment. Connect with new people, wander around the various talks and events, and allow yourself to be immersed in the energy of Web Summit.

Sometimes, the best moments happen when you’re not following a plan - so let yourself enjoy the journey, stay open to surprises, and soak up the atmosphere.

3. Final Note

In summary, Web Summit is a powerful opportunity to connect, learn, and grow in the tech and business worlds. Whether you’re seeking partnerships, exploring new trends, or simply soaking up inspiration, we hope these tips help you make the most of your experience.

Please remember to set clear goals, plan your connections, and remain open to unexpected insights and encounters. Most importantly, enjoy the journey, and let the energy of Web Summit inspire you. Here’s to meaningful connections, fresh ideas, and taking your business ambitions to the next level!

As this will be my sixth Web Summit, I feel well-prepared; however, there’s always something that surprises me—both positively and negatively.

Feel free to connect with me on LinkedIn.