IBTM World has celebrated the success of its inaugural IBTM Ignite programme, which brought some of the industry’s most exciting early-stage companies to Barcelona for three days of idea-sharing, investor engagement and future-focused inspiration.
Across the show, startups from diverse sectors, including event technology, sustainability, workforce development, AI-powered tools, and new agency models, took centre stage on the Startup Pavilion. Each day introduced a new line-up of founders whose originality, ambition and problem-solving energy captured the attention of buyers, visitors, and investors alike.
A major highlight was the Future Stage pitch series, where every participating startup delivered a lightning talk followed by live investor feedback. The packed sessions underscored the quality of this year’s cohort, many of whom were presenting their concepts publicly for the first time.
In parallel, the Ignite Lounge facilitated informal meetings between founders and investors, with several participants reporting follow-up interest and requests for deeper conversations after the show.
The Ignite programme was shaped and curated with the guidance of its dedicated Advisory Board:
Max Fellows, allpoints
Eva Lopez Alvarez, PUNTO MICE
Lori Pugh, MPI (Meeting Professionals International)
Sonia Serracarbassa, Catalunya / BEFuture
Julius Solaris, BoldPush
Richard Morris, Active Media Events
Alex Martinez
Nick Marks, Pie Factory
Speaking about the programme’s success, Max Fellows of allpoints said: “It has been a pleasure not only to see the inaugural Ignite programme come to life, but also the aspirational entrepreneurialism coming through via such exciting and innovative startups covering a diverse and eclectic mix of sector focuses and from early stage to round A funding opportunities. I have really enjoyed helping advise and curate the programme, whilst also introducing leading industry investors to a new, European pool of possibilities.”
IBTM Ignite was delivered in partnership with BEFuture, whose support, expertise, and commitment to accelerating innovation in the business events sector played a vital role in this year’s launch.
Claudia Hall, IBTM World Event Director, commented: “What we witnessed through Ignite was remarkable. The quality and ambition of the startups, the expertise of our Advisory Board, and the appetite from investors showed just how ready the business events industry is to embrace the next generation of ideas. We are especially grateful to BEFuture for their collaboration and to the many investors who took time to engage so meaningfully with our cohort.
“Ignite reflects IBTM’s ongoing commitment to creating platforms where innovation can thrive, and we are proud to support the founders and ecosystems shaping the future of our industry.”
IBTM Ignite will return in 2026, expanding its opportunities for investor access, mentorship, and cross-sector collaboration.
