The stage is set for an electrifying boost in the Nordic tech arena as Copenhagen's renowned TechBBQ, the largest startup conference in Scandinavia, secures a formidable €4 million. This influx of funding stands as a resounding endorsement of TechBBQ's mission to kindle innovation and promote a collaborative spirit within the tech ecosystem. The backing comes from a consortium of esteemed entities, with the Danish Industry Foundation leading the charge by granting €2 million. The Novo Nordisk Foundation and Realdania contribute €670,000 each, followed by €335,000 from The Danish Board of Business Development, €268,000 from HSBC Innovation Banking, and a €67,000 grant from Copenhagen Municipality, earmarked for an entrepreneurship program.
For Benjamin Rej Notlev, CCO and CIO of TechBBQ, this financial infusion marks a thrilling juncture. The growth trajectory from a modest team of eight in 2020 to nearly 30 members today signifies the ascendancy of TechBBQ as a stalwart brand synonymous with the Nordic tech sphere. Notlev echoes the sentiment, stating, "TechBBQ has evolved into a powerhouse, a beacon of strength within the Danish and Nordic tech ecosystems."
This €4 million bounty paves the way for TechBBQ to continue its journey of value creation for global startup stakeholders. With clarity, Notlev emphasizes the intent to amplify the impact of their annual Summit in Copenhagen. The aim is to transform it into an even more inspiring and invaluable experience for founders, investors, and partners on an international scale.
The genesis of TechBBQ dates back to 2013 when a modest gathering in a Copenhagen park set the stage for what it has now become. Today, the tech summit event, held every September, serves as a vibrant nucleus for the Nordic innovation ecosystem. As the Summit gears up for its 2023 edition on the 13th and 14th of September, the mantra of "quality over quantity" resonates. This deliberate focus embraces the belief that an impactful exchange doesn't hinge on size alone.
In Notlev's words, "We aren't vying to be as sprawling as the 'Web Summit' in Lisbon with its 75,000+ participants over four days. Our mission is different. Our aim is to provide an environment where meaningful connections thrive, where attendees can soak in the wisdom of select speakers, and where experiences are etched in memory." This heartfelt commitment, coupled with the €4 million infusion, sets the stage for a TechBBQ Summit that promises to enrich, inspire, and captivate, ensuring eager returns year after year.
