Greetings, Innovators ! As we step into the promising expanse of a new year, our newsletter brings a burst of excitement, showcasing noteworthy achievements and ground-breaking endeavours within our dynamic ecosystem. From prestigious partnerships to triumphs at global tech stages, join us in celebrating the spirit of innovation that defines the essence of InnovX. Discover the latest highlights, future events, success stories and a glimpse into the vibrant future that lies ahead. Let the journey into January's unveilings commence!
InnovX Insightsπ
Embark on a Seamless Journey with the Romania Soft Landing Guide! π
π Stepping into 2024, InnovX is thrilled to announce monumental strides in enhancing our European impact through strategic partnerships and unparalleled services, cementing our role as a pivotal member of the European Innovation Council. ππ
π£ Double Triumph: Celebrate with us as InnovX secures official registration as a trademark at the EUIPO - European Union Intellectual Property Office ! ππ This achievement underscores our unwavering commitment to innovation, excellence, and the establishment of a distinguished international brand identity. ππ‘
As a key partner of the EIC, InnovX invites you to explore the Romania Soft Landing Guide β your go-to resource for a smooth transition into the vibrant landscape of Romania! πβ€οΈ Beyond information, it signifies our commitment to fostering collaboration and extending a warm welcome across communities. Stay tuned for more exciting news and innovations from InnovX!
Key Highlights:
- π Comprehensive Guide: Dive into tailored solutions for startups and established innovators alike. Whether you're venturing into Romania for the first time or looking to expand your presence, our Guide has you covered.
- π Accessibility: The Guide is available by request from members in our community, ensuring exclusive access. Don't miss out on valuable insights; reach out to us, and we'll make sure you get your copy! π€
- π Endless Possibilities: Connect with InnovX for boundless opportunities in Romania. Whether you're considering a soft landing or exploring collaborative ventures, we're here to support your journey. If you're contemplating a soft landing in Romania, we invite you to book a 1:1 meeting with us to explore the endless possibilities! ππΌ
π InnovX - BCR Delegation Takes Center Stage at SXSW 2024! πβ¨
Get ready for a groundbreaking experience as the InnovX - BCR Alumni Delegation, along with a stellar lineup, gears up for the ultimate innovation spectacle at SXSW 2024 in Austin, Texas, USA!
InnovX-BCR Alumni, having left their mark on global stages, are now set to navigate the vibrant tracks of SXSW a convergence of technology, film, culture, and music.
But that's not all! Joining the delegation are distinguished BCR representatives Anca Luca , Ioana Anca Dobre and Catalin Lupoaie , adding corporate insight and strategic prowess to the mix. Our media partners, Adrian Seceleanu from Ziarul Financiar and Vlad Andriescu from startup.ro , will be there to capture every moment, ensuring the world witnesses the innovation unfolding.
Guiding the delegation with their wealth of experience are esteemed mentors Ana Bobirca , Liviu Munteanu and Delia NECULA, MBA Their wisdom and vision will undoubtedly amplify the impact of this journey.
Get ready to witness the synergy of innovation and inspiration at SXSW 2024, where the InnovX - BCR Delegation is set to make waves on the global stage! π
Alumni Spotlightπ
π± RENERGIA, Featured in "Most Innovative Romanian Companies 2023" Catalogue! ππ
Incredible achievement! Congratulations to RENERGIA , an Alumni of InnovX - BCR , for securing a well-deserved spot in the esteemed pages of Business Magazine's "Most Innovative Romanian Companies 2023" printed catalogue! π
Proudly contributing to sustainability, RENERGIA is leaving an indelible mark on the future we collectively envision. Keep shining as trailblazers in innovation! π
π InnovX Spotlight: Allpriv Shines at CES with Double Awards! As CES takes the tech world by storm this week, we're thrilled to share the remarkable achievements of allpriv , a standout company from the InnovX European Program! π Allpriv's CES Triumphs Allpriv proudly boasts not one, but two prestigious CES Awards:
- π 2019 in "Cybersecurity & Privacy" category (1st French in this category)
- π 2023 in "Digital Health" (1st cybersecurity solution awarded in this category)
π Peer Recognition and Innovation Receiving accolades at CES underscores allpriv 's commitment to innovation and excellence, especially noteworthy as startups compete with tech giants on this global stage.
π Celebrating Excellence with Dicor Holding: Certified Best Managed Company in Romania! π
We are thrilled to share the fantastic news that Dicor Holding Alumni InnovX-BCR Investors Program, has achieved certification as one of the Best Managed Companies in Romania! This significant milestone is a testament to our unwavering dedication to excellence.
π Key Areas of Distinction π
The certification acknowledges outstanding performance across critical domains: strategy, innovation, culture and governance. It validates our strategic acumen, innovative prowess, strong organizational culture, and robust governance practices.
Heartfelt congratulations to Razvan Diaconu for initiating the establishment of the impactful board of advisors three years ago. As the "chair of the board", sincere thanks to colleagues and the executive team for their pivotal contributions.
Fagura's "Cashback for SMEs" Program: Six-Month Triumph! π
In just six months one of our InnovX- BCR Alumni, Fagura 's innovative program, funded by USAID Moldova, Sweden, and UKAid, has fuelled the success of 100 SMEs, injecting an impressive 13.72 million MDL into Moldova's economy.
Highlights:
- Diverse Sectors: From e-commerce to eco-solutions, a varied range of sectors showcased the program's holistic approach.
- Demographics: A mix of experienced entrepreneurs (83%) and young innovators (17%) participated, emphasizing both experience and youthful innovation.
- Women in Business: A notable 43% of funded companies are led by women, echoing Fagura's commitment to diversity.
- Geographical Impact: While 75 companies are in ChiΘinΔu, 25 are spread regionally, demonstrating an urban-rural balance.
- Economic Impact: The businesses, with an average income of 2 million MDL, highlighted the program's significant role in employment and economic growth.
**π₯ Breaking News from Finqware **
Exciting developments on the global stage! π Citi , on their new Apps & Integrations Global Portal, has recognized Finqware, Alumni InnovX-BCR, as one of the very few solutions recommended to their global customers for integrating the Citi Connect API.
Two standout achievements:
- European Excellence: Finqware proudly stands as the only European solution listed in this prestigious recommendation.
- Youthful Dynamism: As the youngest company featured, Finqware showcases the innovative spirit of Romanian tech on the global map.
Mentor MomentsπΌ
Ana Bobirca's Meteoric Rise Continues! ππ
Hold on to your hats! Ana Bobirca , our exceptional mentor and InnovX 's Chief Investment Officer, adds another feather to her cap with a new role as a member of the Supervisory Board at Hidroelectrica ππ
Celebrating over 30 years of leadership and innovation, Ana's journey is nothing short of inspiring. Join us in raising a virtual toast to Ana's well-deserved achievement! π₯ Curious about Ana's new role? Dive deeper into her story (https://lnkd.in/dUmjXW_G). πΌπ
Celebrating 5 Years of Innovation with Bogdan Speteanu! ππ
Congratulations to Bogdan Speteanu, our esteemed mentor, for five years of dedicated contributions to InnovX-BCR Program ! π
But that's not allβBogdan has taken his passion for innovation to new heights by co-founding Moov Leasing, an exciting startup in the mobility-as-a-service (MaaS) realm. Alongside his business partner, Mircea Dihel, former CEO of Θiriac Leasing IFN , they are shaping a future where operating leasing services become easily accessible through a monthly subscription model.
ππ¨ Moov Leasing , set to launch in the second half of the year, represents a β¬3 million investment, with plans for additional capital increases in the pipeline. In a world increasingly focused on environmental care and evolving mobility preferences, Moov Leasing aims to simplify car usage, offering flexible solutions for individuals, self-employed, and small companies. ππ Bogdan Speteanu , with his impressive 20-year career at BCR Group, including roles in audit, strategy, and corporate commercial network management, now takes the entrepreneurial plunge. As former CEO of BCR Leasing and President of the Romanian Association of Financial Companies, Bogdan's wealth of experience and commitment to innovation is now driving Moov Leasing towards a future of seamless and eco-friendly mobility solutions. Here's to five years of mentorship excellence and the exciting entrepreneurial journey ahead! Read more about this here!π₯π
Partners' Pulseπ
π SMOK Ventures Secures $25M for Second Fund, Welcomes PFR Ventures as Key Partner! π°
Exciting news from Warsaw! SMOK Ventures has successfully closed its second fund at $25M, with PFR Ventures joining as a key partner. Their ambitious plan involves investing in 35 startups hailing from the CEE region and diaspora.
π‘ SMOK Ventures , led by Paul Bragiel , Diana Koziarska and π Borys Musielak , is on a mission to support diverse founders globally, with a keen focus on software development, game development, and AI.
π Dive deeper into the details in the article below and explore the innovative journey of SMOK Ventures! ππ
Innovation Across Bordersπ
π Mobile World Congress (MWC24)π
π Barcelona, Spain
ποΈ 26 β 29 February 2024
Looking ahead to the future of innovation, mark your calendars for the Mobile World Congress (MWC24) in Barcelona, Spain! ππ‘ This conference stands out as one of Europe's premier tech gatherings, offering unparalleled value for startups, tech enthusiasts, and industry leaders alike.
Register here: https://www.mwcbarcelona.com/
Why Attend?
- ποΈ Discounted Rates: Students and groups can benefit from special discounted rates.
- π¦ Tailored Packages: Companies and organizations can access exclusive packages.
- πΈ Special Offers: Registering early unlocks special offers on ticket prices. Be ready for an immersive experience with a stellar lineup of exhibitors and keynote speakers from industry giants like Orange , TelefΓ³nica and the Ericsson Group. Don't miss the chance to be part of this revolutionary event!
π Finovate Europe 2024: Shaping the Future of Fintech Innovation! π³π‘
π London, United Kingdom
ποΈ 27-28 February 2024
Get ready for the ultimate fintech showcase at Finovate Europe 2024, a pivotal event in the realm of startup conferences, hosted at the Intercontinental O2 in London! ππ° This two-day conference is designed to spotlight cutting-edge fintech solutions and technologies, essential for financial institutions navigating today's digital landscape.
Register here: https://informaconnect.com/finovateeurope/
Why Attend?
- β±οΈ Dynamic Showcases: Immerse yourself in seven-minute presentations from the most exciting startups, unveiling their revolutionary solutions and next-gen services.
- π€ Expert Insights: Gain access to expert speakers and influential attendees providing valuable insights into emerging trends and strategies for navigating the global economy and business landscape. Don't miss the chance to be part of one of the most significant tech events of the year, connecting with innovative minds and staying at the forefront of fintech trends! ππ #FinovateEurope2024 #FintechInnovation #StartupConferences
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PR & Communication Summit: Explore Trends in Comms and PR! ππ’**
The PR & COMMUNICATION SUMMIT is Romania's premier gathering for communication and PR specialists. Each year, it showcases the latest trends, successful case studies, and fresh ideas for the country's top companies and agencies. In 2024, the summit returns with an enriched edition, featuring special seminars and an awards gala recognizing the best campaigns of the past year.
Join us on March 18-19 in Bucharest: https://prsummit.ro/participare/#up
Who's In? Corporate & Communication Managers π΄οΈ Marketing Leaders π New Media Gurus π Independent Consultants πΌ Ad Wizards π§βοΈ PR Pros π£ Journalists π° Content Creators π¨ Key Topics:
- AGILE PR STRATEGY: Short-term actions, big impact!
- EMPLOYEE COMMUNICATION: Navigating internal comms in a year of remote work.
- EMERGING SOCIAL MEDIA: Tackling new trends and platforms.
- BRAND STORYTELLING: Fresh approaches in brand and corporate communication.
- PR TRANSFORMATION: Adapting to changes post-pandemic.
- NEW MEDIA RELATIONS: Adding value in the online communication eraπ
European Commission Programsπ
π Empowering Female Leaders: EIC Women Leadership Programme Open Call! π
Exciting news from our partner, the European Innovation Council and SMEs Executive Agency (EISMEA)! In collaboration with the EIT - European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), they are thrilled to announce the launch of the 4th cohort of the EIC Women Leadership Programme (EIC WLP), running from March to May 2024.
The EIC WLP is dedicated to supporting, inspiring, and empowering female innovators. This cohort offers selected leaders a unique opportunity to enhance their leadership and entrepreneurial skills through training sessions, networking events, business coaching, and mentoring opportunities for career and business development.
Key Components of the Programme:
- π Training Sessions: Deep dive into leadership and entrepreneurial topics.
- π Networking Events: Expand your contacts into the business world.
- πΌ Coaching Scheme: Address your business challenges.
- π©π« Mentoring Scheme: Unlock your personal career development. If you're a female leader in the innovation space, seize this chance to boost your skills! For more details and testimonials from previous participants, click here!πβ¨
And there you have it, the January roundup from us at InnovX ! Stay tuned for more exciting updates, innovations, and community highlights in the months to come. Until then, keep blazing new trails! πβ¨