The very first Connect2Scale Pitching Event was organised as part of the EBAN (European Business Angels Network) Congress, which took place in Tallinn from May 20th to 22nd. Organized in collaboration with FiBAN, EstBAN, and supported by CIVITTA and Business angels of Slovenia, the pitching competition aimed to assist startups in securing a second round of funding and transitioning from angel investments to venture capital (VC) funding within the EU market.

Earlier this year, more than 1500 applications were received from a diverse array of startups across Europe. There were over 300 eligible startups that had received angel funding. The evaluation process considered problem statements and solutions, team competency (qualifications, relevant experience, and motivation), and diversity to ensure a wide range of opportunities.

From these applications, 50 startups were selected to compete in the online semifinals held on April 23rd. These startups, representing more than 10 countries and various sectors such as education, gaming, green-tech, legal, deep-tech, and more, presented their pitches to a panel of VCs and Angels.

Following the semifinals, feedback from investors was gathered, and 18 startups were selected for an online pitch training session on April 29th. This session provided valuable investor feedback to help entrepreneurs refine their pitches in preparation for the final competition.

The final pitching competition took place in person at the EBAN Congress in Tallinn. All 18 selected startups presented their refined pitches. CeleBreak, led by CEO Daniel Foth, won the Connect2Scale pitching competition and also emerged victorious in the EBAN Congress pitching competition.

This event highlighted project’s commitment to nurturing and supporting startups across Europe, providing them with essential resources, visibility, and growth opportunities.

Watch the EBAN Congress Aftermovie and feel the Pitching competiotion spirit HERE.