Failure Culture And Ecosystem Connectivity In The CEE Startup Scene

09.45 - 10.15h Participants arrive and Opening

10.15 - 10:30h Introduction of WIGS Vienna Institute for Global Studies

10.30 - 11.30h 1st Panel

Title: The Untold Startup Failure Stories

Subtitle: What happened to some of the failed startups previously praised as "rising stars" and recommended as "ones to watch"?

“I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.” - Thomas Edison

Lenght: 45min + 15 min Q&A

Intro: We often hear that the failure of a business doesn't reflect the failure of the entrepreneur behind it. However, understanding the factors leading to failure and extracting lessons from it isn't straightforward. Failure still carries a stigma, and it's notable how little is discussed about the true reasons behind it. This lack of transparency might be attributed to the emotional complexities involved and the tendency to assign blame elsewhere. Why aren't we exposed to more of these stories in a constructive context?

Panelists:

• 3 founders (each from a different country in the CEE region) experienced failure with a startup that was once predicted to have a promising future.
• 2 investors (each representing a different country in the CEE region) who have been involved in failed startups.
• Possibly 1 business coach or psychologist with insights into this subject matter.
• 1 moderator.

11.30h - 12.00h: NETWORKING BREAK - finger food & non-alcoholic drinks to be served

12.00h - 13.00h: 2nd Panel

Title: The United Yet Disconnected CEE Startup Ecosystem

Subtitle: Are we fulfilling our collaboration potential within the region often referred to as the economic growth engine of Europe?

Length: 45min + 15 min Q&A

Intro: The CEE region, with its population exceeding 126 million, encompasses most EU countries and a majority within the Schengen zone. With an economic growth rate higher than the EU average and globally recognized tech talent, it holds great potential. However, connections between countries are far from reaching their potential, leading to missed opportunities in investment, talent acquisition, client engagement, and forming partnerships with neighboring countries. This aspect is particularly noteworthy, given the relatively small size of most countries in the region. Where do we currently stand regarding cross-border collaborations between the startup ecosystems of these countries?

Panelists:

• 4 startup ecosystem builders, each hailing from a distinct country in the CEE region (ideally not neighboring nations).
• 1 investor from beyond the region, with a proven investment track record in various countries within the region.
• 1 service provider, serving clients across multiple countries within the CEE.
• 1 moderator.

13.00h - 14.00h: Networking - finger food and non-alcoholic drinks to be served.