Over 550 startups will access growth and funding opportunities at How to Web Conference 2025. Applications for the startup programs are closing soon
How to Web Conference, the leading startup and technology event in Eastern Europe, will host multiple programs and formats for over 550 startups at its 2025 edition, taking place on October 1–2 in Bucharest. These programs are designed to…
How to Web Conference, the leading startup and technology event in Eastern Europe, will host multiple programs and formats for over 550 startups at its 2025 edition, taking place on October 1–2 in Bucharest. These programs are designed to support early-stage startups by offering valuable opportunities for growth, investor connections, and showcasing their innovations.
“Our goal is to provide startups with practical tools and connections that can have a real impact on their growth. These programs create incredible opportunities to meet global investors, learn from industry experts, and present their ideas to a relevant audience”, said Alexandru Agatinei, CEO of How to Web.
The startup programs and formats include:
Spotlight
Spotlight is the flagship program and competition for startups in Eastern Europe, offering ambitious founders a launchpad toward global investors.
In 2025, the focus is on creating real opportunities for founders: direct access to investment funds and business angels managing over €10 billion, in a setting designed for business validation, meaningful meetings, and applied discussions. The finalist startups go through a rigorous selection process and get to present their business ideas directly in front of some of the most important investors in Europe. In this way, How to Web builds a platform where founders receive immediate feedback and get on the radar of top European investment funds, which are present in the region exclusively for the conference.
The Spotlight program includes opportunities to present on the Startup Stage, dedicated expo space, and targeted media coverage. Startups also benefit from one-on-one mentoring sessions with renowned experts, scheduled meetings with potential investors, and multiple chances to pitch to the international audience at How to Web. This intensive mentorship, combined with exposure to investors, can significantly accelerate a startup’s growth trajectory, providing founders with personalized guidance to refine their business models and pitching strategies.
Applications close on August 31. Find out more on How to Web event website.
Dealflow
Over 200 top investors, including representatives from renowned funds such as IVP, Northzone, Cherry Ventures, Credo Ventures, Creandum, Angular Ventures, Balderton, Seedcamp, 20VC, OTB, and Inovo VC, will be present to evaluate and discover the next generation of promising startups.
