Startup Showcase: 10 FAQs

Startup Showcase shines a spotlight on our startups’ ideas and solutions to major industry challenges. Sign up here.

Startup Showcase brings together entrepreneurs from a range of industries to present their company and vision to Web Summit attendees.

Expect quickfire presentations of startups’ solutions to industry-defining problems. Each hour, our top emerging businesses take to the stage to present under a different theme. Be sure to check out our startups page to sign up for our ALPHA programme.

To prepare you for Startup Showcase, here are 10 answers to your frequently asked questions:

How long can I showcase for?

Each startup has two minutes to showcase its company.

What if I go over two minutes?

There is no flexibility with allocated time. There will be a countdown clock on stage to help you.

What is the format of Startup Showcase?

Each shortlisted startup will have the opportunity to outline how its business addresses major industry issues, and what this means for customers. Each hour will focus on a specific industry, with a varied list of industries taking to the stage over the course of the day.

Can I bring my product onstage?

No, this is a bare-bones presentation. It’s just you and the audience.

How many team members can showcase?

Only one member of your team can showcase. Feel free to invite the rest of the team to support you during your time on stage.

How do we choose what member of our team showcases?

We recommend choosing a team member who can demonstrate the problem your company solves in a concise, informative way. Don’t underestimate the impact that stage presence can have on your showcase.

Will my showcase be recorded?

Yes, showcases will be recorded. Web Summit can share the footage with you after the event.

What should I showcase?

Outline your company and what it does. The two minutes should focus on two key questions:

1. What are the major issues defining your industry?

2. How is your startup addressing these issues?

How can I prepare for my showcase?

Carefully consider the unique problem(s) your startup solves and the opportunity this presents for growth. Try to think about your startup in a broader context within your industry. When practising, make sure to get your timing down to two minutes – this will be strictly enforced.

How big is the audience?

The Startup Showcase stage is open to all attendees and seats approximately 70 people, with standing space for more.

Startup Showcase isn’t your only opportunity to get your name out there. You can also participate in PITCH, our startup competition.

Startup Showcase will not affect PITCH applications, as they are evaluated by different judges. If you want your startup to be considered for both, you must ensure to fill out both applications.

Web Summit will take place in Lisbon from November 13-16. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity for your startup. Book tickets today!

Main image of Marina Naperstak, CEO, imgproxy, at Startup Showcase Stage: Ben McShane/Web Summit (CC BY 2.0)