Plenary Session

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Deeptech in the global arena: What it takes to win

This plenary-roundtable will explore how Switzerland and Europe can strengthen their high-tech ecosystems to remain competitive on a global scale. Key topics will include fostering deeper collaboration between academia, industry, investors, and government, enhancing growth funding for startups, and preparing for impactful exits.

Discussions will also focus on the role of government in shaping industrial policy and the strategic sectors Switzerland should prioritize to ensure long-term innovation and leadership in emerging fields. Join us as we examine how to accelerate future growth and innovation in this fast-paced, evolving landscape.

AGENDA

Opening welcome 

• Anna Fontcuberta i Morral, President of EPFL

• Yves Felder, Regional Director regional Romandie / Head Corporate & Real Estate Romandie (UBS Switzerland AG)

• Raphaël Conz, Managing Director, Office for Economic Affairs & Innovation (SPEI), Canton of Vaud

Keynotes 

• The world is changing - Are your venture investments and fundraising strategies ready?

  • Dr. Burkhard P. Varnholt, Senior Financial Markets Advisor UBS Global Wealth Management based in Zurich, Switzerland

• Nexthink: From Zero to One… to 3 Billion

  • Patrick Hertzog, Co-Founder & User Experience Officer, Nexthink

Panel discussion
Deeptech in the global arena: What it takes to win

• Dr. Burkhard P. Varnholt

• Patrick Hertzog

• Simone de Montmollin, National Councillor; President, Science, Education & Culture Commission

• Nicolas Autret, Partner, Walden Catalyst

• Alexis Houssou, Founder & Managing Partner, HCVC

Moderation: Jordi Montserrat, Co-founder and Managing Partner at Venturelab

Closing

• Edouard Bugnion, Vice President for Innovation & Impact, EPFL