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Event created by James
Important Update🎙️
Pitching Opportunity Awaits!
Keep an eye on your inbox! If you're selected to pitch, we'll be in touch and will send over follow up information. Express your interest and fill out the details promptly! 
Act fast! Due to high demand, pitching slots are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. 
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About this Event
In Collaboration with The Startup Events and North Eastern University we are thrilled to host inaugural event of the Blue Factory, a pioneering initiative designed to connect and empower the startup ecosystem in London and beyond. This event marks the beginning of the Blue Factory's mission to actively engage with the local entrepreneurial community, fostering a network of like-minded startup founders, investors, and supporters.
The Blue Factory is distinguished by its unique European architecture, rooted in the rich academic environment of ESCP Business School's campuses across Europe. Our approach is defined by a supportive and inclusive culture that nurtures innovation and collaboration. This event serves as a platform to build a vibrant community where ideas can flourish, partnerships can be formed, and startups can access the resources they need to succeed.
The London Blue Factories events brings together hundreds of London startup founders, investors, and a rich mix of startups, scaleups, late-stage tech businesses, academia, and the public sector and it's completely free to attend.
The London Blue Factory Startup Events is an informal and networking-focused event.
We are expecting over 150 attendees,
- 60% of them being founders,
- 15% investors,
- 25% other industry professionals.
Founders and investors will have the opportunity to do a one-minute pitch during the event (see the details below).
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Startup & Investor Pitch Sessions: Fast-Paced Networking 
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Introducing our fast-paced, high-energy pitching session, where every second counts!
Have a groundbreaking idea or startup?
You'll have 60 seconds to make your pitch to our founders and a select group of investors. Impress us, and you could be on the path to partnership and investment.
But be warned: time waits for no one! If your pitch doesn't hit the mark, it's NEXT.
Get ready for an exhilarating challenge that tests your ability to think on your feet and communicate with impact.
Prepare your pitch and join us for a thrilling opportunity to grab the spotlight and make your mark in just one minute. 
Your startup future's could be just 60 seconds away! 
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Open Mic Pitching Details:
To participate in the Investor and Startup Pitching sessions, you must be a founder, work for a startup, or be an investor. 
(we prioritise companies with MVP build and a website)
Each pitch should be no longer than one minute.
Submissions will be accepted on a rolling basis, so please make us aware through the use of your Eventbrite signup (Tick Yes to be Involved in Pitching), email us, or let us know upon arrival if you want to take part. 
The Submission deadline is 18:00 pm on the day of the event. The first pitch will begin promptly at 7:00 pm, and the final pitch will conclude before 9:30 pm. 
15 startups will be able to do a 1-min pitch followed by a Live Q&A
The selection of those who pitch will be randomised for each session of the night. 
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Fireside Chat Overview:
The fireside chat at our inaugural Blue Factory event promises to be an intimate and insightful conversation, designed to delve deep into the challenges and opportunities facing international startups in the UK. This session will feature a panel of distinguished experts who bring a wealth of experience and diverse perspectives on entrepreneurship, investment, and the current UK business landscape.
Moderated by Dean Williams, Senior Business Consultant at Goldsmith University, the discussion will cover key topics such as:
International Business Setup: Insights into the hurdles and strategies for establishing a business in the UK.
Current Political and Economic Landscape: How the evolving environment impacts startups and what to anticipate in the future.
Fundraising and Scaling: Practical advice on securing investment and overcoming the challenges of scaling a business in London and across the UK.
Personal Experiences and Tips: Panelists will share their personal journeys, offering valuable lessons and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Expanding Across Borders: Strategies for successfully taking a business beyond the UK and into international markets.
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Who Should Attend?
This event will be of particular interest to:
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Founders, co-founders, and entrepreneurs
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Uni Students
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Solopreneurs
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Venture capital, angel investors
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Investment leads, managers, or associates
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Senior leaders
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About the Hosts: ESCP Blue Factory
The Blue Factory is ESCP’s European startup incubator. We support startups along their journey and welcome them to our unique European entrepreneurship community. We helps entrepreneurs to courageously develop projects that matter.
Website: https://www.blue-factory.eu/
At the Blue Factory, we're not just an event organiser; we're a bustling hub where founders help fellow founders.
Our mission is to illuminate the ever-evolving startup ecosystem, creating a seamless platform for governments, investors, and bsuinesses to connect and collaborate with our esteemed members.
Within our vibrant community, you'll discover a diverse blend of startups, scaleups, late-stage businesses, academia, and representatives from the public sector.
By nurturing these varied relationships, we foster an environment that incubates innovation and cultivates productive partnerships.
Join us in this exciting journey, where knowledge is shared, networks expand, and opportunities flourish. Be a part of The Startup Events, where growth, innovation, and collaboration thrive hand in hand. 
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About the Hosts:
🎙️ Harry McDonough - Co-Host
- Responsibilities: Event Organiser / Start-Up Facilitator / Event Management
Emily Centano - Co-Host
- Responsibilities: Event Management / Event Moderator / Sponsorship & Partnership
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Speakers
Moderator
Moderator: Dean Williams - Senior Business Consultant, Goldsmith University
Dean Williams, the seasoned Senior Business Consultant at Goldsmith University, will be at the helm of this thought-provoking conversation. With a passion for advancing individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds, Dean's extensive experience in business advisory and consultancy provides a unique lens through which he navigates the intricacies of the startup landscape. His probing questions will unravel the untold stories of entrepreneurship, creating an environment where authenticity meets expertise.
Panellists
Speaker Brief: Sam Simpson - Co-Founder & CEO @ FounderCatalyst
Sam Simpson is a seasoned entrepreneur and the Co-Founder & CEO of FounderCatalyst, a platform that streamlines early-stage investment legals, making them transparent and affordable for startups. With a successful track record of co-founding and exiting tech startups, including one recognized as the 17th fastest-growing company in Europe in 2017, Sam has established himself as a key player in the startup ecosystem.
Beyond his entrepreneurial ventures, Sam is an active angel investor, having made 31+ investments over the past five years. His deep expertise and commitment to fostering innovation have made him a sought-after board advisor and a dedicated mentor to fellow entrepreneurs. Through FounderCatalyst, Sam continues to empower startups by simplifying the complexities of early-stage investment, ensuring that emerging businesses have the resources they need to succeed.
Speaker Bio: Emily Centeno - Director of Marketing, Recruitment, Admissions, Communications, and Events
Emily Centeno is the Director of Marketing, Recruitment, Admissions, Communications, and Events at ESCP Business School, where she plays a pivotal role in shaping the Blue Factory, ESCP's international innovation hub. With over 20 years of experience in global marketing and brand management, Emily is a strategic leader known for building high-performing teams and driving growth.
At the Blue Factory, Emily is a passionate supporter of innovation and entrepreneurship, spearheading initiatives that empower startups across Europe, including in Berlin, London, Madrid, Paris, and Turin. Under her leadership, the Blue Factory provides tailored programs, a robust network of mentors, and essential resources to help startups grow and scale internationally.
Emily's commitment to personal development, lifelong learning, and creating impactful customer experiences has made her a key figure in the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Speaker Bio: Richard Corps - Non-Executive Director | Director of Entrepreneurship, Northeastern University London
Richard Corps is a seasoned entrepreneur and strategic leader with extensive board-level experience in the Media and Emerging Technologies industries. He has a proven track record of establishing and growing multiple successful businesses, raising significant funding, brokering multi-million-pound commercial deals, and achieving successful exits.
As the Director of Entrepreneurship at Northeastern University London, Richard is dedicated to fostering innovation and guiding startups towards sustainable growth. He works closely with SMEs, providing strategic insights and processes that help them scale and secure investment across his extensive venture capital network.
Richard's deep expertise in business development, coupled with his passion for emerging technologies, makes him a valuable resource for entrepreneurs looking to navigate the complexities of today’s startup ecosystem. His commitment to entrepreneurship is evident in his ongoing efforts to support and mentor the next generation of innovators.
Speaker Brief: Alexander Emeh-Gapo - Founder @ Black Owned London
Alexander is a visionary leader dedicated to empowering the Black community in London through his work with Black Owned London, an initiative he founded to highlight and support Black-owned businesses across the city. With a focus on showcasing leaders who combine passion with an inspirational work ethic, Alexander aims to provide the public with access to innovative solutions, unique experiences, and exceptional services offered by Black entrepreneurs.
Under his leadership, Black Owned London has partnered with Camden to champion Black businesses through a series of activations and a podcast, spotlighting the contributions of Black professionals in both the public and private sectors. This partnership reflects Alexander's commitment to bringing about economic change in the Black community, with a mission to inspire, engage, and uplift.
Alexander’s work is not just about business; it’s about creating a lasting impact and building a community where Black excellence is recognised and celebrated.
Speaker Brief: Jane Fisher - Founder @ Social Impact Startup Imii
Jane Fisher is a passionate social entrepreneur and the founder of Imii, a startup dedicated to simplifying the immigration journey and helping immigrants thrive in their new environments. With a deep commitment to making a positive difference, Jane has built Imii to serve as a compass for those navigating the complexities of resettling in a new country. Imii offers tailored information, language-friendly local business directories, and community-building tools designed to help immigrants not just settle, but truly advance in their new lives.
Jane is also dedicated to empowering other change-makers and social entrepreneurs. She has a strong track record of helping startup founders, charities, and non-profits, including global organisations like the WHO, master their communication strategies. Jane's work is driven by a desire to ensure that brilliant ideas and impactful projects receive the visibility and support they need to succeed.
About Our Venue Provider: Northeastern University London
We are thrilled to host today's event at Northeastern University London, a unique institution that stands out not only for its prime location but also for its global educational opportunities.
A Prime Location in the Heart of London
Northeastern University London is situated in the city’s only leisure marina at St Katharine Docks, a picturesque and historic setting just a few minutes’ walk from the iconic Tower of London and the instantly recognizable Tower Bridge. The university’s main building, Devon House, is equipped with state-of-the-art teaching and learning facilities, providing a modern and vibrant environment for both students and event attendees.
With its unparalleled views of London and the Thames, and its vibrant waterside atmosphere, Northeastern University London offers an inspiring backdrop that perfectly blends the historic charm of London with cutting-edge educational resources. We couldn't ask for a better venue to host our community events.
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Our Partners
The Startup Events is a thriving community created by founders, for founders. Dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs, this dynamic group provides a platform for innovation, collaboration, and growth within the startup ecosystem. With a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by founders, Startup Events curates experiences that foster connections, inspire new ideas, and support the development of successful businesses.
At Bolo, the mission is to bring about meaningful economic change in the Black community. With unwavering passion and dedication, the organisation strives to direct, inspire, and engage in ways that empower Black-owned businesses and uplift the community as a whole. Bolo's vision is to create a lasting impact by providing the support and resources needed for Black entrepreneurs to thrive. The belief is that by fostering strong, successful businesses, economic prosperity within the Black community can be enhanced, contributing to a brighter and more equitable future for all.
At FounderCatalyst, we understand the challenges that many founders face when navigating the legal funding round process. From a knowledge gap in legal matters to a crowded marketplace, bootstrapping struggles, high lawyer fees, and slow legal progress, it’s no wonder many founders feel overwhelmed. Our mission is to help these entrepreneurs overcome these obstacles and become successful leaders of their businesses.
Odev.Tech
Odev.Tech
Offering world-class software development services, featured in FORBES magazine and our goal is to make sure we deliever expectional softwware for everyone one of our clients.
25% Discount when booked via our page or use the code THESTARTUPEVENTS
You can have a look at our extensive portofolio here: https://odev.tech/portfolio
And our extensive capabilies here:
01.Software, App and Web Development
RCK Partners
We have recently partnered with RCK Partners and Andrew, further helping to support you and your business.
RCK Partners are a financial consultancy specialising in tax liabilities and incentives. Andrew and the team are supporting us by offering a Free health check in your business to explore the possibility of Tax relief or incentives through R&D Tax credits (see attached brief).
RCK work on a contingent basis meaning there are no upfront costs, and you will not be charged until your business has received the benefit. To free up a consultant’s time, Andrew and the team require a letter of engagement and KYC check to be completed. This is a contractual agreement and NDA, to discuss financial and confidential information with one of their consultants. The KYC check is photo identification to be sent. If the relief and gain is found during your call with the consultant, they will arrange a following discussion for a deeper dive into your R&D projects.
The full process cycle and commitment from you will require on average 3 hours total.
Why use RCK.
- Maximise your benefits, relief and/or cashflow.
- Contingency based fees - only payable upon successful outcome of claim. If you don’t want to continue the process following the first call, please let Andrew know.
- Extensive experience in increasing the value of historic claims in a process known as claim optimisation.
- Typical claim enhancement of 40% vs accountants and “Big 4”
- Experienced in both SME and RDEC regimes.
- In-house PhD level consultants with computer science and engineering backgrounds.
- In-house compliance team made up of ex-HMRC inspectors and ACCA accountants.
- Gold standard HMRC enquiry support.
Shipshape.VC
Ship Shape is the Venture Capital Search Engine. Ship Shape is a Search Engine that lets you search individual investors at VC firms, portfolio companies and investment entities.
The Startup Magazine
The Startup Magazine, a leading media company dedicated to startups, innovation and technology. We aspire to educate and inspire entrepreneurs, as well as provide insights into the expanding entrepreneurial ecosystem of incubators, accelerators, angel investors and venture capital.
Since 2012, the company has produced over 4,000 publications across various entrepreneurship and management categories, and has a following of over 50,000 global readers.
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Want to sponsor us?
Interested in sponsoring us?
We're thrilled to offer sponsorship opportunities for our dynamic event. By becoming a sponsor, you'll gain valuable exposure to a vibrant community of founders, investors, and industry enthusiasts. Your support will play a pivotal role in making this event an unforgettable success.
Get in touch today to discuss how we can showcase your brand and amplify your presence within the startup ecosystem. 
E -mail Address: BLUEFACTORYLONDON@ESCP.EU
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Important notice:
We take great pride in the high-quality connections that our events offer. We have a fair number of tickets available for the entire startup community, including founders, startup employees, investors, and others (students, accountants, lawyers, aspiring entrepreneurs, and other companies servicing startups).
Please only book tickets that are applicable to you. We will verify your details and upon the results might cancel your booking.
If Eventbrite runs out of tickets for your category, please join the waiting list or email E -mail Address: BLUEFACTORYLONDON@ESCP.EU, and we may be able to add you.
Just to clarify, when we say startups, we mean scalable businesses looking for investments now or planning to start soon. For example, if you are a self-employed marketing specialist, please register as "Other" rather than as a "Founder".
