On November 8, 2024, the International Venture Academy (IVA), hosted by Sophia Business Angels (SBA) in Sophia Antipolis, became a pivotal event for fostering deep-tech innovation. In collaboration with the atTRACTION project and its partners, the event brought together 9 startups, 9 atTRACTION partners, and over 25 SBA members in an intimate yet high-impact environment.
The collaboration emphasized quality over quantity, creating a focused setting where startups could form meaningful connections with international investors. Selected startups from Wielkopolska, Andalusia, and Lithuania pitched groundbreaking innovations ranging from bioresorbable medical materials, secure, unbackable, internet connectivity, quantum-based wireless power solutions to life saving land mines detection by drones based on sensors and AI technologies. These regions, often overlooked by global investors, showcased their potential as rising hubs for deep-tech innovation.
What made this event special? The small-scale format, featuring tailored coaching and multiple pitch sessions, allowed startups to receive personalized feedback and refine their investment readiness. The alignment of values and objectives—supporting international capital collaboration to unlock global opportunities for innovative startups—further amplified the success of the event.
The impact was undeniable:
As Candace Johnson, Founder of SBA, remarked, “The caliber of startups brought by atTRACTION was outstanding, and their progress throughout the event highlighted the power of collaboration.”
The atTRACTION project’s role in curating the startups and providing pre-event preparation was critical to the event’s success. By working closely with SBA and leveraging regional expertise, atTRACTION showcased how European deep-tech ecosystems can thrive on the global stage.
