Frequently Asked Questions
Why do we do this?
The idea for the Velvet Innovation Conference was born out of the desire of local businesses involved in the innovation ecosystem to meet in person and effect meaningful change. Our mission is to showcase new ideas and provide a platform for international networking. We believe in creating solutions to global challenges by fostering strong relationships between companies, public institutions, research structures, universities, non-profit organizations, creatives, and visionaries. We celebrate the success of local innovation and inspire the next generation of leaders to bring sustainable change.
What to expect?
Velvet Innovation Conference is an annual half-day event focused on innovation, emphasizing various aspects of sustainability. The English-speaking conference offers a range of topics, from technology trends to potential business opportunities. It represents a unique opportunity to meet all the key players in one place and be part of the change you want to see in the world. Meet new people, get inspired, and join the discussion.
Who attends the event?
Over 75% of attendees come from the business sector. Local entrepreneurs, technology leaders and visionaries, corporate C-level executives, researchers, policymakers, NGO representatives, students, and anyone interested in solving global challenges.
Stay another day
Velvet Innovation is just the tip of the iceberg. Experience more of the local ecosystem with other innovation-related events in #brnoregion, or dive into the busy local food and culture scene.
Startup Showcase
Are you a central European early-stage startup? Win two free tickets to showcase your idea in an exhibition booth in a dedicated Startup Showcase area to our audience at Velvet Innovation 2024.
This is your chance to pitch your product to the audience of over 600 key players of the Brno region ecosystem and generate new leads!
Who can apply?
- a new project, a startup, or a company with a new product (no more than one year after launch/first units sold),
- innovative and scalable ideas with global potential.
Timeline
- Applications open: 15 May 2024
- Deadline to apply: 31 August 2024
- Selected startups announced: 30 September 2024
- Deadline to send the speaker names: 14 October 2024
- Deadline to send the presentation: 10 November 2024
Apply for the showcase
Practical Info
Getting there
- Train – To reach the venue, we highly recommend taking a train to Brno Main Train Station. Brno has an efficient public transportation system, so you can get to the venue in 6 minutes by tram number 1.
- Public transportation – The best way to get to the conference is by tram number 1 or 6 to the stop Antonínská.
- Car Parking – If you are coming by car, please use the parking house by the Janáček Theatre or the Rozmarýn parking house. Both are within a few minutes' walking distance from the conference. There is no parking available at the Hotel Passage for conference attendees.
Conference Check-in & Cloakroom
Please arrive on time to ensure smooth registration for all attendees. You can drop off your coats at the cloakroom in the hotel lobby.- Check-in & cloakroom opens: 12:00
- Stage program starts: 13:00
- Stage program ends: 20:00
Event app
You will get the best conference experience with the Eventee app. You will receive the link to join the app when the platform opens a few days before the official event begins. Your ticket enables access to our online event platform with a complete program schedule and a matchmaking feature. Save relevant content, make your own schedule and get fresh updates during the event. Learn how to use the Eventee app with a short explainer video.
Networking
You can book meetings with other conference attendees after you join the event app. Select someone’s profile to check their availability and schedule a meeting in one click. There will be no organized matchmaking session with startups; come by the Startup Showcase area during coffee breaks to see their pitch.
Food & drink
Ample time for networking is one of our priorities, and so is your energy! You get free refreshments, soft drinks, and unlimited coffee on both conference floors during four coffee breaks throughout the afternoon.
Afterparty
We are gearing up towards the best afterparty the Velvet Innovation Conference has ever seen. More info coming soon!Parent zone
We have a dedicated space for parents and their babies at the conference. You can make use of the space for changing, feeding and a little quiet time away from the buzzing program.
Wi-Fi
We offer free Wi-Fi connection in the entire conference area.
Language
All of the conference sessions and all discussions are in English or translated/subtitled to English.
Refund Policy
If you cannot attend the Velvet Innovation conference, you can request a refund for up to two weeks before the event. You can also transfer your ticket to someone else, simply send us the request with their name and e-mail address to conference@velvetinnovation.com.