This week, I had the privilege of attending Web Summit 2024, a melting pot of innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship. Held in the vibrant city of Lisbon, the event brought together an eclectic mix of founders, investors, technologists, and visionaries from around the world. It was an intense, inspiring, and thought-provoking experience—and I want to share some highlights, takeaways, and personal reflections from my visit.
The Energy of Web Summit
Walking into the venue, I was immediately struck by the energy of Web Summit. Thousands of attendees bustling between stages, exhibits, and networking lounges made it feel like stepping into the epicenter of the tech world. The atmosphere was electric, charged with ideas and ambition.
The diversity of the crowd was equally striking—representing over 160 countries, attendees ranged from seasoned industry leaders to scrappy startups pitching their dreams. It was a vivid reminder of the global scale of innovation and how technology connects us across borders.
A world-class speaker lineup
One of the biggest draws of Web Summit is its speaker lineup, and this year didn’t disappoint. From thought leaders in AI and sustainability to high-profile CEOs and policy-makers, every session offered a unique perspective. Some of my personal favorites included:
- Julie De Moyer: Her talk on the future of data and AI in fashion was great.
- Max Tegmark: A deep dive into the implications of AI left me pondering our collective responsibility as creators and users of technology.
- John Graham-Cumming and Jeff Shiner: great talk on data sequrity.
The startup scene
The exhibition area was a playground of creativity, showcasing startups solving problems I hadn’t even thought of. It was exhilarating to see the passion and ingenuity driving these teams forward.
As someone who is always looking for ways to merge creativity and functionality, I found myself inspired by these founders who are reshaping industries, one bold idea at a time.
Building connections
While Web Summit is undeniably about technology, what struck me the most was the human side of the event. Every conversation—whether over coffee, in a crowded hallway, or during structured networking—was an opportunity to learn, collaborate, and connect.
I met founders navigating challenges similar to mine, investors with invaluable advice, and creators whose work left me inspired. It was a poignant reminder that behind every innovation is a human story.
Key takeaways for 2024
As I reflect on my time at Web Summit, several themes have stayed with me:
- AI is everywhere: Whether it’s powering startups or sparking ethical debates, artificial intelligence is shaping every corner of tech.
- Sustainability is non-negotiable: The need to align technological innovation with environmental responsibility was a recurring theme.
- Connection matters more than ever: In an increasingly digital world, fostering genuine human connections remains vital.
Final thoughts
Attending Web Summit 2024 was an incredible experience—one that left me feeling inspired and energized. Whether you’re a technophile, an entrepreneur, or simply someone curious about where the world is headed, I can’t recommend it enough.
As I return to my own projects, I’m carrying with me the lessons and connections from this remarkable event. I’m excited to see how they’ll shape my work—and maybe, one day, take me back to Web Summit, this time as a speaker.
Have you attended Web Summit or similar events? I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences—let’s connect in the comments or on social media!