When I first received my entry badge, I noticed an interesting button. When two people press this button simultaneously, it sends information like names, company names, positions, and email addresses to a mobile app – essentially exchanging digital business cards that allow for post-event networking through platforms like LinkedIn. The event also had dedicated networking booths, highlighting how much emphasis U.S. places on building professional networks. This is particularly important for startups seeking funding or partnerships in the U.S. – networking might even be the primary purpose for most attendees.

I also attended a Breakout Session titled “The Art of the AI Pitch: Winning Over Investors in 2025” featuring a moderator, two investors, and an entrepreneur. They predicted AI-related businesses would grow from 27% to 37% of the global market. The discussion covered essential pitch deck elements, noting investors typically spend only 30 seconds reviewing them. They emphasized the importance of simple business models, clear problem-solution statements, balanced teams with technical and customer-facing expertise, and crucially, the “Why now?” factor, as timing is often more critical than the idea itself for rapid business growth.