Complete Program
You can now check all the activities during the 3 days of the conference!
The Start Up, Bulgaria Program
Design your own path to success: choose the sessions you want!
Impact entrepreneurship: How startups can make the change
EN
Boris Kolev
Private Investment in Bulgaria & SEE 2024
8 November 2024
10:00 AM
EN
Evgeni Angelov (BVCA); Georgi Mitov (BrightCap), Angel Angelov (Innovation Capital), Stanislav Sirakov (LAUNCHub), Stoyan Nedin (Vitosha Venture), Aleksandar Terziyski (NV3)
Exciting news and insightful report reveal by BVCA will captivate the audience - be among the first ones to hear
Sky is the Limit
Turning Crisis into Opportunity: Scaling a Business Through Innovation
10 November 2024
10:00 AM
EN
Georgi Kadrev (Kelvin Health)
Learn how innovative thinking can transform crises into opportunities for business growth. This session explores how tech solutions are being used to address health problems, with real-world examples of turning challenges into scalable ventures. Discover how to harness the power of adversity to inspire your next business idea.
Entrepreneurship 101
The Entrepreneur's Paradox
9 November 2024
10:00 AM
EN
Georgi Nenov (The Superhuman Podcast)
In a world full of contradictions, it is the entrepreneur who turns challenges into opportunities. In this lecture, we will touch on some of the biggest paradoxes that I have come across while developing "The Superhuman Podcast with Georgi Nenov" in the last 8 years and meeting with some of the most influential entrepreneurs in Bulgaria. Let's discover together how these contradictions shape the success of anyone who dares to try.
Sky is the Limit
Drive Success in B2B Sales by Discovering and Delivering Value
9 November 2024
10:00 AM
EN
Oggy Vasilev (The Revenues Factory)
Are you ready to transform your B2B sales strategy and achieve outstanding results?
Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned entrepreneur, this workshop will empower you with actionable strategies to drive success by focusing on the core of B2B sales: discovering and delivering value.
Join Oggy Vasilev, a renowned sales and business development expert with over a decade of experience, including strategic consulting for industry giants like The Boston Consulting Group, Accenture Digital, and Salesforce. Ognyan has a proven track record of helping businesses exceed expectations through innovative approaches to sales strategy and value-based selling.
In this workshop, you’ll learn:
How to uncover the real value drivers that resonate with your clients.
Practical techniques to tailor your offerings to meet the specific needs of B2B buyers.
Strategies for both beginners and advanced sales professionals to boost client engagement and long-term loyalty.
Real-world examples of how these techniques have led to extraordinary outcomes, including up to 150%+ quota attainment and 94% YoY growth.
Oggy’s hands-on approach has generated hundreds of millions of euros in annual revenue and secured 2.5x better results for strategic accounts.
Don’t miss the opportunity to tap into his expertise and learn how to bring similar success to your business. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your skills, this workshop will equip you with the tools and insights you need to thrive in the competitive world of B2B sales.
B2B Sales forum
How to get to a Global Scale and what's the bridge to it?
8 November 2024
10:00 AM
EN
Pavlina Yanakieva (Bulgaria Innovation Hub)
Scaling Bulgarian businesses globally is not a mission impossible. Hear more about the future horizons the ecosystem offers and how you can cross the bridge for international success
Scaling up
What are investors looking for?
10 November 2024
10:00 AM
EN
Tim Jeck (Entrepreneurial Investment Partnership), Atanas Raykov (Rakuten Viber), Hristo Hristov (Darik Radio), Julian Gikov (Raiffeisen Bank International AG), Mirena Bordelieva
Our international speakers are excited to join us and reveal some of the “mysteries” around what business investment looks like from regional perspective, what investors across the globe are mostly looking to see in a pitch or business proposal and how you can prepare to address those expectations more effectively next time you are up for an investor meeting.
Scaling up
Starting Strong: Essential Steps for Launching Your Own Business
8 November 2024
10:00 AM
EN
Vilislav Slavev (The Revenues Factory), Danail Koev (VEDA Accounting), Bilyana Dimitrova (DSP Law Office), Tsvetan Stoianov (ABS Consult)
Learn the key foundations for successfully starting your own business, from accounting and legal considerations to practical tips for first-time entrepreneurs. This session covers everything you need to know to turn your business idea into reality.
Entrepreneurship 101
Unlocking Growth: Secrets to Scaling Your Business
10 November 2024
11:00 AM
BG
Dimitar Dimitrov (Ardes), Alexander Dreischuh (Alpi Investment), Nikolay Zheynov (Ucha.se & Eduboom), Lubomir Nokov (Harmonica), Nikolay Markov (FMFIB)
Hear from successful entrepreneurs across various industries as they share their personal journeys and reveal the common strategies that helped them scale their businesses. Learn the key factors that drive sustainable growth and take your business to the next level.
Scaling up
The Evolving Role of the CRO: Mastering the Modern Revenue Landscape
9 November 2024
11:00 AM
EN
Felix Bühner (Ubisense)
With the revenue landscape constantly evolving, the Chief Revenue Officer (CRO) plays a pivotal role in driving growth. In this session, discover how CROs can navigate market shifts, foster alignment between sales, marketing, and customer success teams, and implement strategies for long-term, sustainable growth.
B2B Sales forum
Discover the Financial Instruments enabling the ecosystem
8 November 2024
11:00 AM
EN
Galina Markova (Bulgarian Angels Club), Martin Gikov (FinGrow Bulgaria), Teodor Radonov (European Investment Bank (EIB)), Mira Krusteff (Financial Literacy with Mira)
Have you ever wondered what instruments are available to support a business growth, scale, and potential financially? Join the group discussion and find out what paths you might aspire to take next
Sky is the Limit
Building a Thriving Organizational Culture: The Role of Well-Being in Business Success
9 November 2024
11:00 AM
EN
Ivaylo Sekoulitchki & Sami Hossny (Health4Wealth)
Explore why prioritizing well-being is essential for shaping a strong organizational culture and driving business growth. Ivaylo and Sami will share their journey of integrating well-being into their strategy while offering practical insights on how you can build a scalable SaaS MVP without coding or hiring developers. Discover how well-being and innovation go hand in hand for long-term success.
Sky is the Limit
When to ‘Nail Down’ Your Idea’s Brand: Before or After Validation?
8 November 2024
11:00 AM
BG
Katya Todorova (MEmotion)
Discover more about what is the right timing for preparing for your business brand and what are the pros and cons for doing it either way.
Entrepreneurship 101
Bulgaria - Innovation Destination: How Entrepreneurship can lead the way for turning Bulgaria into an innovation destination
9 November 2024
11:00 AM
EN
Milena Stoycheva (Board of Innovation), Dimiter Banov (Hydrogenera), Natalia Konova (AMIRA MEDITECH LTD), Asparuh Koev (Transmetrics), Boyan Zahariev (Green Gold Intl)
Let’s deep dive into what innovation is and what it means for distinctive industry representatives. The panel discussion will give you all those perspectives that illustrate what known and unknown potential we have thriving in Bulgaria and how we can leverage it even further for broader visibility
Scaling up
The Art of Finding the Perfect Cofounder
9 November 2024
11:00 AM
EN
Niklas Köster (The Better Cat)
Is the success of a business driven by the idea, the team, or the cofounder who shares your vision and passion? Niklas will share his valuable experience in launching a business and explain why finding the right cofounder is crucial.
Join this session to discover what it takes to build a strong partnership and why it can make all the difference in your entrepreneurial journey.
Entrepreneurship 101
Being a fashionpreneur with a style
10 November 2024
11:00 AM
EN
Sabina Gyosheva (By Far)
Hear what it takes to build a luxury brand and embrace this as your passion for life
Entrepreneurship 101
Skilling in the Future World - how to be capability-ready?
10 November 2024
11:00 AM
EN
Theodor Panayotov (Ethermind)
The story of lifelong learning and what does Ethermind bring to the table
Sky is the Limit
From East to West: how to master fundraising as a young Bulgarian founder
8 November 2024
11:00 AM
EN
Zvezdin Besarabov (Outdid.io)
Do you have global ambitions? Sooner or later, you'll fundraise from western investors. But you didn't study in Stanford, you don't have a sleek British accent, and the people you talk to are having difficulty pronouncing your name, let alone judging how good of a founder you'd be.
How would a first-time founder from Eastern Europe get this right? And are there any differences in perception or fulture that you must address?
In 2022, Zvezdin co-founded the ID verification startup Outdid.io, and after over 100 VC pitches which failed for all kinds of reasons, in 2023 they closed a $2.5M seed round led by a US and Singaporean VC, followed by around 20 angel investors. He would love to share his learnings of what did, and most importantly, didn't work, in the pursuit of helping more founders understand that they can, and will do, a lot more with the right preparation.
Scaling up
"Sofia is Not Bulgaria": Unlocking Regional Talent and Opportunities
10 November 2024
12:00 PM
EN
Boryana Peycheva (ITSZ), Emiliyan Enev (ReCheck), Mariana Roder (NankaCreative), Angel Marchev (UNWE)
Sofia may be the capital, but Bulgaria’s true strength lies in its diverse regional talent. Meet community leaders from across the country and discover the incredible opportunities for learning, networking, and growth beyond Sofia. Tap into regional power, build your network, and find your next big opportunity by connecting with like-minded innovators from every corner of Bulgaria.
Entrepreneurship 101
Sales Consultancy Sessions
9 November 2024
12:00 PM
EN
Coming soon
Take the opportunity to sign up for a personal exclusive Sales consultancy and feedback session with the B2B Sales Forum guests. Learn, practice, and grow directly on the spot!
B2B Sales forum
Leverage the Power of the Ecosystem - what formats exist to test your potential
8 November 2024
12:00 PM
EN
Georgi Kaludov & Dimitar Georgiev (IBM Accelerator)
A spotlight on the IBM Accelerator programme and what exciting technologies are available here for startups to use and test the potential of their ideas and innovative solutions. Hear more from the latest cohort’s success stories and what unique capabilities are utilised for ongoing projects.
Sky is the Limit
The technology boost into our lifestyle - AI generations
10 November 2024
12:00 PM
EN
Georgi Kostadinov (Kelvin Health), Milena Georgieva (EPIX.ai), Nikolay Vasev (Epix.аи), Federico Acosta (Custom Surgical)
Let's deep dive into understanding why AI is gold in the current business dynamics and how technology can not only bring in more ideas, improvements and efficiencies, but also can change and boost our health conditions
Scaling up
Multigenerational employment - why does it matter and how to embrace the working dynamics with the new generations
9 November 2024
12:00 PM
EN
Hannah Rolph (Knight Frank)
Join Hannah for a fascinating conversation on the unique challenges and opportunities that arise from having multiple generations in the workplace. Discover practical strategies for fostering collaboration, understanding diverse perspectives, and creating an inclusive environment where every employee can thrive. Learn how companies can adapt to the evolving employee landscape and leverage generational diversity to drive innovation and success.
Sky is the Limit
The Billionpreneur Mindset - what does it take to develop one?
8 November 2024
12:00 PM
EN
Jeko Kolev (Nextoria)
Only 0.00006% of startups achieve unicorn status, and even fewer entrepreneurs will grow their company to generate a billion dollars in annual revenue. There is no universal formula for becoming a "Billionpreneur," but even just having a shot at such a milestone requires a specific mindset and adherence to a few fundamental principles when building a business. Drawing on his personal and professional experiences with multiple unicorn founders and his role in scaling WeWork to a $47 billion company, Jeko will share his insights on developing the mindset of a founder capable of building a groundbreaking business.
Sky is the Limit
The Role of the Ecosystem: Building Infrastructure for International Business Success
9 November 2024
12:00 PM
EN
Kremena Dervenkova (ABLE), Ned Dervenkov (BESCO), Momchil Vassilev (Endeavor)
How well do you understand Bulgaria’s startup ecosystem? This panel discussion will dive into the latest developments in business regulations, infrastructure, and support networks that are essential for growing your business internationally. Join the conversation, learn how to leverage the ecosystem for success, and come prepared to ask the questions that matter to your entrepreneurial journey.
Entrepreneurship 101
Fueling Your Entrepreneurial Journey: Uncover Opportunities to Launch Your Next Venture
8 November 2024
12:00 PM
EN
Nadia Zaharieva (America for Bulgaria Foundation), Hristo Boyadzhiev (Tuk-Tam), Zornitsa Mitkova (Teenovator), Aleksander Grozdanov (BASE Bulgaria), Alexander Georgiev (WWF Bulgaria)
Ready to turn your ideas into action? This session explores how entrepreneurs can tap into untapped opportunities, connect with the right community, and leverage resources to start their next big venture. Join us to find out what steps you can take today to ignite your entrepreneurial path and bring your vision to life.
Entrepreneurship 101
The Volt-ron of a successful business journey
10 November 2024
12:00 PM
EN
Ognyan Popov (Volt Taxi)
A story about what it takes to be a serial entrepreneur - success is not a destination, it's a journey of serial trials and learnings
Sky is the Limit
Supercharging your Startup Journey: Insights from Christian Kunz, Pomona Apparel, ex-Plug and Play
9 November 2024
2:00 PM
EN
Christian Kunz (Plug & Play)
Christian Kunz, now an entrepreneur at Pomona Apparel and formerly with Plug and Play Tech Ventures, shares his journey and expertise on how the startup ecosystem empowers early-stage ventures. Get ready to define your purpose, choosing the support system that is right for you and launching successful B2B collaborations.
This session will focus on three essential areas of the early founder journey. Whether you are still developing a concept, have just launched or are starting to scale, you will find key insights and best practices that will help launch or grow your business.
Sky is the Limit
Introduction to the European Patent System
9 November 2024
2:00 PM
EN
Dora Karamanli
Join Dora in this foundational session discoverng more about how to get yourselves immersed in the startup ecosystem, while taking care of your assets like patents. Get to hear why you can go up by starting up with patents and why it is so important.
This session offers a basic introduction to the most important legal and procedural aspects of patents and the European patent system.
Entrepreneurship 101
What's in your DNA?
10 November 2024
2:00 PM
EN
Ivaylo Ivanov (Founders Institute)
Coming Soon!
Entrepreneurship 101
When is the Right Time to Start? Insights from Successful Entrepreneurs
9 November 2024
2:00 PM
EN
Kosta Karakashyan (Studio Karakashyan), Jane Dimitrova (FoodObox), Aleksandar Gramatikov (Mentor The Young), J.D. Mininger (American University in Bulgaria)
There’s no perfect moment to start your entrepreneurial journey—what matters is taking the leap. Join this discussion to hear from panelists about what inspired them to embrace entrepreneurship, the challenges they faced, and where they are today. Discover how to find your own timing and take that first step toward success.
Entrepreneurship 101
Overcoming the Fears of Scaling: Lessons from Successful Entrepreneurs
8 November 2024
2:00 PM
EN
Nikolay Todorov (LimeChain), Ivan Georgiev (Pontica Solutions), Boris Pavlov (Flat Manager), Roberta Tihomirova (Eleven VC)
Are you ready to scale your business, or are you hesitant about the next big leap? In this session, successful business owners will share their hard-earned lessons on scaling up, revealing what to do—and what to avoid—for long-term, sustainable growth. Learn how to overcome the challenges of scaling and ensure your business thrives at every stage.
Scaling up
Boosting Sales by Engaging the Right Stakeholders: from fanatic users to executive engagements
9 November 2024
2:00 PM
EN
Ognyan Vasilev (The Revenues Factory) & Tatyana Eliseeva
In this action-oriented session, we will explore proven strategies to accelerate sales by effectively engaging key stakeholders—champions, executives, and users.
Learn how to tailor your approach to each group, understanding their unique needs and motivations, and discover what drives decision-making at every level.
With numerous practical examples from industry leaders, you'll walk away equipped with actionable insights to build stronger relationships and close deals faster.
This session is essential for anyone looking to master stakeholder engagement and elevate their sales game.
B2B Sales forum
Fueling Innovation and Growth Insights from Large-Scale Tech Transformations
8 November 2024
2:00 PM
EN
Stefan Trifonov (Boston Consulting Group)
Explore the business landscape through the lens of a Boston Consulting Group partner, gaining key insights into innovation, organizational transformation, and scaling from a regional perspective. Discover strategies for driving growth and staying competitive in an evolving market.
Sky is the Limit
The Unsexy Truth About (Startup) Success
10 November 2024
2:00 PM
EN
Stoyan Yankov (PERFORM)
Nowadays everyone wants to "build a unicorn", but very few are willing to do what it takes to get there. What are the fundamentals we need to get right to have a shot at building a successful startup?
In this No-BS session, productivity & performance coach - Stoyan Yankov will share the best learnings and insights from:
10+ years of experience, working with startups in 35+ countries
Writing 2 books about startups together with the CEO of a leading European VC fund
Interviewing 250+ highly successful business leaders such as the founder of Reebok, the president of Starbucks, unicorn founders and bestselling authors
Sky is the Limit
Smart money, smart business and a few stupid mistakes. The art of being a solopreneur in Bulgaria
8 November 2024
2:00 PM
BG
Stoyne Vasilev (Smartmoney.bg)
Hear more about the art of solopreneurship and continuous learning and how changing and evolving your ideas can turn into being the smartest move you can make
Entrepreneurship 101
Equity Financing or IPO – Finding the Right Fit for Your Company’s Growth
10 November 2024
2:00 PM
BG
Zdravko Pirinliev (BenchMark), Simeon Iliev (MFG Invest), Kosta Jordanov (Wiser)
This panel will explore strategies and opportunities for company financing, focusing on equity financing and stock market listing as two key models. Featuring experts representing diverse businesses and investment approaches, the panel will provide insights into the real advantages and challenges companies face when choosing the path to growth through the capital market. One of the panelists will share experience from the perspective of a financial analyst and author of a startup guide, while the other two participants will contribute their experience as representatives of already-listed companies—one of which specializes in direct investments in other businesses.
The panel is aimed at startups and entrepreneurs seeking sustainable financing solutions, offering practical advice and insights for achieving long-term success through capital attraction.
Scaling up
Growing a mature business in a mature industry 3X in 4 years
8 November 2024
3:00 PM
EN
Andrey Davtchev (Matrax AD)
Growing a mature business in a mature industry 3X in 4 years: a collection of principles, stories and anecdotes
Sky is the Limit
Entrepreneurship mindset - starting a project from within an organisation
9 November 2024
3:00 PM
EN
Eftim Eftimov (Montway Bulgaria)
It is not all about startups and running for new business foundations, the entrepreneurial mindset is the enriching power that can pull the right strings to inspire you to run the extra mile and kick off a new initiative, project or product within your current employer’s organisation. Eftim will demystify what the commonalities and differences are and will empower you valuable examples of what you can do next yourselves
Entrepreneurship 101
Building a Global Success: From 0 to 2 Million Customers on an Entrepreneurial Journey
8 November 2024
3:00 PM
EN
Georgi Dimitrov & Vasil Ralchev (InaEssentials)
Join Georgi and Vasil as they share their inspiring journey of creating a global product that now serves over 2 million customers. Learn how they stayed true to their Bulgarian roots, which played a key role in their remarkable success, and gain insights into building a thriving business from the ground up.
Entrepreneurship 101
Raising Money - The Founder’s Perspective on Venture Capital
9 November 2024
3:00 PM
EN
Krikor Dzeronian (Electives.io)
Gain a founder’s perspective on venture capital and learn how to navigate the fundraising landscape. In this session, Krikor will share his journey - from initial friends-and-family rounds to Series A - along with the key elements of securing the right investors, crafting a compelling pitch, and understanding essential term sheet considerations. You’ll also explore the value of strategic relationships and the art of storytelling to make your venture stand out. Join us to deepen your understanding of the VC process and make informed, impactful choices in your fundraising efforts.
Scaling up
From good to great: Elevating account executives performance with best practices
9 November 2024
3:00 PM
EN
Mika Pyhämäki (Grand Iceberg Group)
Explore key practices that turn good account executives into top performers. Learn actionable strategies for optimizing sales techniques, improving customer engagement, and closing deals more effectively.
B2B Sales forum
Building a Global Software Product startup from Bulgaria
9 November 2024
3:00 PM
EN
Orlin Radev (AMPECO)
Get electrified by the inspiring story of Orlin Radev revealing what fate has signaled him to embrace the journey and how his passion, persistence, commitment and genuine curiosity in the matter has enabled him and the business to reach global scale. Get to hear more about the Lessons learned while building AMPECO.
Sky is the Limit
How #BreakingGrounds showcased Bulgaria’s tech ecosystem to 300,000 investors and innovators in less than a year
8 November 2024
3:00 PM
EN
Teodor Antonio Georgiev (Storytelling Studio), Iskren Krusteff (Integrator JSC), Konstantin Bezuhanov (Evrotrust), Boyko Takov (Bulgarian SME Promotion Agency)
In this panel, leading figures from Bulgaria’s tech ecosystem will discuss the remarkable journey of #BreakingGrounds, an initiative that has propelled Bulgaria into the spotlight of the global innovation landscape. From startups to scale-ups, the panel will explore how Bulgarian companies gained visibility among 300,000 investors, innovators, and industry leaders in under a year. Join us as we uncover key success factors, the challenges faced, and the strategic initiatives that made this milestone possible.
Scaling up
Impossible is Nothing: It is all in your own hands
10 November 2024
3:10 PM
EN
Dimitar Berbatov (DBerbatov Foundation)
An inspiring talk on what success takes and how to learn from your failures to aim higher and work harder
Sky is the Limit
Mission (Im)possible? How to start up, scale up and build the future?
8 November 2024
4:00 PM
EN
Boyan Ivanov (Storpool Storage)
How many times have you heard that your idea does not work or is not good enough? Let’s demystify some of the myths of what it takes to start a business and learn on the go while believing in your idea and accommodating external feedback on the way up
Entrepreneurship 101
6 Steps to Mastering a Successful Media Presence
9 November 2024
4:00 PM
BG
Dessie Stoyanova (HOW TO SPEAK)
In this session, you'll gain an insider's perspective on what captures media interest and keeps audiences hooked. Dessie Stoyanova will walk you through a practical, step-by-step algorithm for grabbing and holding the media’s attention, drawn from her 25+ years of experience as a journalist and TV presenter. She'll break down six clear and actionable rules that are the backbone of any successful media presence.
You’ll learn what makes a person, topic, or event irresistible to the media, how to position yourself as a go-to expert on the issues you care about, and how to boost your chances of landing interview invitations. Plus, you'll discover what it takes to be a compelling guest that keeps those invitations coming.
This session will also dive deep into the power of storytelling as a tool for persuasion, how to present data in engaging ways, and the impact of strong versus weak language in delivering your message. Packed with real-world examples, this workshop is practical, hands-on, and accessible to everyone—whether you're new to the game or looking to refine your skills.
Sky is the Limit
Tech PR for Startups: Building Credibility to Attract Investors, Partners, and Clients
8 November 2024
4:00 PM
EN
Kristina Kuneva (The Recursive)
Embrace the importance of building trust and your personal and business position out there so others can grasp your true value and potential for investment and growth
What is the added value of tech PR?
Why is it important for startups to build credible image in the media in order to position themselves more effectively in front of investors, partners and clients?
In what ways can Storytelling Studio help startups achieve this goal?
Sky is the Limit
What's next? From vision to reality
10 November 2024
4:00 PM
EN
Ognyan Vasilev (The Revenues Factory)
As we wrap up three days of inspiration, networking, and transformative insights, the real journey begins—turning your vision into reality.
In this closing keynote, we will explore what comes next and how to leverage the knowledge, connections, and strategies gained during the conference to drive your future success.
This session will guide you through the steps needed to apply these learnings in your entrepreneurial journey and provide practical advice on how to sustain momentum, ensuring that the impact of these three days lasts long into your business future. The next steps are yours to take—let's turn inspiration into action.
Sky is the Limit