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.

Practical Info

Getting there

  • Velvet Innovation Conference takes place at Hotel Passage, Lidická 23, Brno.
  • 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: 19:00
  • Cloakroom closes: 21:00

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.

How to get the most of networking

📱 In-app networking 
The basic way to connect. Browse participants, connect with them, and arrange a meeting. It's that simple.
🙋‍♀️ Networking Masters
Need to get connected with someone specific? Our Masters of Networking are ready to help! During the first two coffee breaks, look for our colleagues with blinking badges at the lobby bar. Their network is vast, their social skills immense. Go ahead and use them!


📛 Networking sticker
Are you looking for an investor, a new colleague, or do you have any other business plans? Let people know! Just stick a networking sticker on your chest so that all conference participants can easily find out what you're up to. Finding a right person is easier then.
Networking Bingo
Networking has never been more playful! Join the bingo game, grow your network and compete for a cool prize.
- You will get the playing card along with your conference badge during registration
- You will find rules at the playing card
- Once you have your card filled, get to the registration desk to pick up your reward–only for first 100 gamers!

How to play in-app event game

Make your mark by being the best player of this year's Velvet Innovation Conference. Dive into the game and earn points for every interaction! Whether you're sharing insights on the social wall, connecting with fellow attendees, upvoting interesting questions, or engaging directly with speakers, each action brings you closer to the first place. Get involved, track your progress, and enjoy a more rewarding event experience!

Prizes:
🥇 1st place – 🎟️🎟️ 2 tickets to VIC 2026
🥈 2nd place – 🎟️ 1 ticket to VIC 2026 
🥉 3rd place – 🍾 Bottle of wine

You will find details of the game in the event app. The winners will be contacted the day after the event via email.

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 three coffee breaks throughout the afternoon.

Afterparty

This year, we are enjoying afterparty networking at Harry Brewery–a popular craft beer spot located within a walking distance of the Hotel Passage. The afterparty door opens at 8:00 p.m. and an open tab will be waiting for you so be sure to arrive on time. Also remember to bring your name badge for entry. 

See how to get to afterparty.

Silent zone for parents, kids and calls

We have a dedicated room where you can enjoy little quiet time away from the buzzing program. The space is divided into two parts – one is intended for parents and their children, the other provides space for work calls. You find the silent zone at the second floor of the conference.

Wi-Fi 

We offer free Wi-Fi connection named "Velvet Innovation" in the entire conference area. Feel free to use it.

Language 

All of the conference sessions and all discussions are in 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.
 

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 2025.
 
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 2025 
  • Deadline to apply: 7 September 2025
  • Selected startups announced: 30 September 2025