Frequently Asked Questions
General FAQs
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.
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
The check-in is between 12:00–13:00. Please arrive on time to ensure smooth registration for all attendees. The opening session starts at 13:00. You can drop off your coats at the cloakroom in the hotel lobby.
Event app
You will get the best conference experience with the Eventee app. Your ticket enables access to our online event platform with a complete program schedule and a matchmaking feature. You will receive the link to join the app when the platform opens a few days before the official event begins. Save relevant content, make your own schedule and get fresh updates during the event.
Networking
You can book meetings with other conference attendees when 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 during coffee breaks to see their pitch.
Food & drink
Ample time for networking is one of our priorities, and so is your energy! You can get free refreshments, soft drinks, and unlimited coffee on both conference floors during four coffee breaks throughout the afternoon.
Wi-Fi
Hotel Passage offers free Wi-Fi connection in the entire conference area.
Language
The conference sessions and all discussions are in English. There is no interpretation or translation available.
Refund Policy
If you cannot attend the Velvet Innovation conference, you can request a refund for up to two weeks before the event.