This year, Web Summit 2024 in Lisbon wasn’t just another tech conference - it was a melting pot of ideas, inspiration, and game-changing innovations. With over 71,000 attendees from 153 countries, the energy was electric, and we were right in the middle of it, soaking up insights and forging meaningful connections.
“Web Summit teleports you to the heart of technology, innovation, and marvellous atmosphere. This year’s conference was buzzing with energy! I was impressed by the presentations on FinTech, SaaS, Smarter Beauty, and the future of AI — topics close to my heart and work. The insights I gained and the connections I made will surely impact my perspective and drive for the months ahead. I’d like to express my sincere gratitude to all the organizers, speakers, and participants who made this event so memorable. Here’s to continuing the conversations that started here.”
Web Summit 2024 attendee, Senior Business Relationship & Partnership Manager at Modsen Natallia Drachikova
Getting Web Summit 2024 figured out
Which hot topics were discussed during the event and what conclusions did the industry experts arrive at? Uncovering the key insights of Web Summit 2024 here.
Omnipresent AI
If there was one clear trend at the summit, it was this: AI isn’t just the future - it’s the now. Every major keynote, panel, and startup pitch had AI at its core. From domestic robots that act through voice commands, to deep discussions on AI ethics, bias, and regulations - the tech world is moving at an insane speed. But beyond the hype, some critical questions also emerged:
- How can businesses ensure AI transparency and fairness? - Will regulatory frameworks stifle or fuel innovation? - How will AI shape the job market, and what skills will be in demand in the next five years?
Sustainable tech
One of the most thought-provoking conversations revolved around sustainability. With AI models and data centers consuming massive amounts of energy, industry leaders are racing to integrate renewable energy and build greener infrastructure. The consensus? Tech companies can’t afford to ignore sustainability anymore - it’s a business imperative that has come to settle.
A particularly striking point was how Web3 and blockchain could play a role in green technology, using decentralized models to drive efficiency and reduce waste. Could the future of sustainable innovation be on the blockchain? Some experts at the summit think so.
Tech investment’s changing face
With shifting global economies, discussions about venture capital trends, startup funding, and economic downturn resilience were just as crucial. Investors emphasized that AI-powered startups aren’t enough to attract funding - VCs are looking for profitability, not just potential.
Some big takeaways on funding in 2024 and beyond: - Deep tech is in demand - startups solving real-world problems with AI, quantum computing, and biotech are the next big thing. - Crypto funding is stabilizing - while the NFT bubble has burst, blockchain-based infrastructure is regaining investor trust.
The era of gaming, AR & VR Gaming and immersive tech were another hot topic. With Apple’s Vision Pro launch on the horizon, AR and VR are seeing renewed excitement. Web Summit featured discussions on: - How AI is reshaping game development - from NPC interactions to dynamic storytelling. - The metaverse debate - is it still relevant, or just a passing trend? - Gaming as a social platform - titles like Roblox and Fortnite are redefining how people connect.
Gender diversity
One of the standout discussions at Web Summit 2024 was the ongoing push for gender diversity in tech. While the industry has made progress, many speakers emphasized that true inclusivity is still a work in progress. - Women still make up less than 30% of the global tech workforce. - Only 2% of VC funding goes to female-founded startups. - Women are underrepresented in AI, cybersecurity, and deep tech leadership roles.
While many companies have diversity initiatives, real change requires more than quotas and hiring targets - it’s about culture, mentorship, and breaking systemic barriers. With 44% of startups led by women, progress is evident, but challenges like funding disparities and gender biases persist.
Bottom line
Events like Web Summit fuel our vision, connect us with the brightest minds, push us to innovate beyond limits and timely adapt our strategies to the changing global tech environment. Staying at the forefront of technology means engaging with those who drive change, and that’s exactly what we did. Ready to turn the gained insights into action!