Cornwall Slush’D 2024: Google Cloud Partnership and New Features Set to Elevate South-West Tech Event

Cornwall Slush'D 2024 is set to make waves as it returns to Newquay on 12th September. Tech Cornwall, the driving force behind the event, has announced a series of exciting new features and a significant partnership with Google Cloud that promises to take this year's gathering to new heights.

Google Cloud Partners for Pitch Competition

Google Cloud has come on board as the official partner for this year's Pitch Competition. This collaboration highlights Google Cloud's commitment to nurturing early-stage startups by providing them with access to cutting-edge technology and resources. The competition will see ten finalists pitching their innovative ideas to a panel of judges, with one winner set to receive enhanced support from Google Cloud.

James Lee, General Manager for Startups and AI at Google Cloud, emphasised the importance of supporting startups, stating, "At Google Cloud, we believe that startups have shaped the world we live in today and will continue to do so in the decades ahead. It's our pleasure to partner with Tech Cornwall and equip their founders with our open and optimised stack for AI, broad choice of infrastructure solutions, and many important resources tailored for startups."

This partnership will give participating startups the opportunity to leverage Google Cloud's AI and Web3 development tools, alongside technical training and expert guidance, providing a significant boost to their growth potential.

New Features to Engage and Empower Founders

Cornwall Slush'D 2024 will also introduce several new features designed to enhance the experience for founders and attendees alike:

• Venture Village: This new exhibition space will allow startups to showcase their technology, offering them the chance to connect with potential investors and customers. The Venture Village is poised to be a hub of innovation, where attendees can explore the latest tech developments in the region.
• Demo Night with Canopy Community: In collaboration with Canopy Community and Cornwall Trade and Investment, the event will host a Demo Night, providing founders with a platform to demonstrate their products to an engaged audience. Unlike the Pitch Competition, Demo Night focuses on showcasing the functionality and potential of products, offering valuable feedback for founders to refine their product roadmaps.
• Workshops and Mentoring: Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in hands-on workshops and mentoring sessions led by industry experts. These sessions are designed to provide practical skills and personalised advice, helping founders navigate the challenges of scaling their businesses.

Success Stories and Anticipation for 2024

Last year's Cornwall Slush'D was lauded by participants for its inspirational atmosphere and the sense of community it fostered among tech entrepreneurs. Niki Davies, Director of Tech Cornwall, expressed her excitement for this year's event, stating, "We're delighted to partner with Google Cloud for Cornwall Slush'D and welcome them to the south-west. The event is designed to be the most founder-focused event in the south, and this partnership will provide early-stage founders with the chance to access a robust technical platform with support from one of the world's biggest tech companies."

Keynote Speakers, Panels, and Networking Opportunities

Cornwall Slush'D 2024 will feature keynote addresses from renowned tech entrepreneurs, with panel discussions covering a range of topics including building a thriving tech startup ecosystem and securing investment. In addition, structured networking opportunities via an event app will allow attendees to connect with investors and fellow founders, ensuring that meaningful connections can be made throughout the day.

Event Details and Ticket Information

Cornwall Slush'D 2024 will take place on Thursday, 12th September at the Lighthouse Cinema in Newquay. Tickets are available now via the official event website, and founders can apply to pitch their startup to investors. The closing date for pitch applications is 9am on 13th August 2024.

For more information on sponsorship opportunities, tickets and event details, visit www.startupcornwall.co.uk.

Cornwall Slush'D, supported by the global Slush community, continues to position Cornwall as a thriving tech hub, bringing together the best of local talent and global innovation.