EPFL Investor Day 2024

The EPFL Investor Day is a unique event in Western Switzerland created to connect investors with high-potential and innovative technology startups.

While the first part of the day is dedicated exclusively to investors and high-tech startups, the second half of this year’s program opens to a wider audience, including academia, industry, government, and members of the public eager to explore the future of innovation.

Program of the Day

14:45 - 15:00 - Doors open & registration

15:05 – 15:20 - Launch of the AI Startup Launchpad

• Discover EPFL’s AI Startup Launchpad, a new initiative designed to be a premier incubator for startups at the forefront of artificial intelligence.

• SICTIC's most experienced board members and investors will share insights on investing in Switzerland's thriving startup ecosystem. Discover strategies, success stories, and essential factors for effective startup investment (key points covered: Innovation landscape in Switzerland, case studies on Swiss startups, the added value of Business Angels, understanding company valuation and funding needs, building a strong startup portfolio through angel investing) followed by Q&A.

• Dynamic keynotes and a roundtable session will explore how Switzerland and Europe can strengthen their high-tech ecosystems to maintain global competitiveness. Topics will include building collaborations, securing growth funding for startups, and the role of government in shaping industrial policy.
  • Keynote speakers includes: 
    • Daniel Gutenberg, Unicorn Hunter and Soonicorn Farmer 
    • Patrick Aebischer, Senior Partner ND+ Capital, Former EPFL President 
    • Jarek Kutylowski, CEO and Founder at DeepL
  • Following the keynotes, Daniel Gutenberg and Patrick Aebischer will be joined by Emile de Rijk, Co-founder and CEO of Swissto12, and Madiha Derouazi, CSO at AC Immune, for a roundtable moderated by Jordi Montserrat, Co-founder and Managing Partner at Venturelab.

• Experience a showcase of groundbreaking ideas as emerging entrepreneurs pitch their startups, offering a glimpse into the next generation of innovation.

• Conclude the day with networking opportunities during the closing aperitif, providing a chance to connect with investors, startups, and innovation enthusiasts.