Web Summit 2024: A Landmark Event in Technology and Inclusivity
The Web Summit 2024, held in Lisbon, concluded with record-breaking attendance and a strong focus on artificial intelligence (AI) and the empowerment of women in technology. This year's event attracted 71,528 attendees from 153 countries, showcasing the growing global interest in tech innovation. Among the participants were 3,050 corporate exhibitors, 1,066 investors, and 953 speakers, highlighting the summit's status as a premier gathering for industry leaders and innovators.
AI emerged as the most represented technology at the summit, with a 16% increase in AI startups compared to previous years. Notably, AI startups raised $72.6 million in funding last year, reflecting the sector's burgeoning momentum. Other significant industries represented included fintech, healthtech, and cleantech, all of which are increasingly integrating AI into their operations.
Promoting Gender Equality in Tech
A key highlight of this year's summit was the substantial representation of women, who accounted for 42% of attendees and led 44.5% of startups. This marks a significant increase from 29% in 2023, indicating a positive trend towards gender balance in the technology sector. Despite these advancements, a report from the summit revealed that over half of the participants still experience a lack of female representation in leadership roles, and 51% believe they earn less than their male counterparts.
The event also featured numerous community meetups aimed at fostering connections among attendees, including specialized gatherings like the “Women in Tech Connect” and “Clean Tech Meetup.” These initiatives are part of a broader effort to create a more interactive and supportive environment for all participants, encouraging networking and collaboration across various sectors.
The summit attracted significant investment interest, with 1,066 investors from 58 countries, managing a total of $14.7 trillion in assets. Prominent sovereign wealth funds, including the Qatar Investment Authority and Mubadala Investment Company, were among the attendees, further enhancing the opportunities for startups to secure vital funding.
With a distinguished lineup of speakers, including artist Pharrell Williams and Microsoft President Brad Smith, and extensive media coverage from 2,005 journalists, Web Summit 2024 has solidified its role as a leading platform for innovation and dialogue in the technology industry.
