Dynamic Kickoff in Graz

Hello Graz! We’re delighted to be in your beautiful city. Just moments ago, BOLD Minds and local businesses came together at the Auditorium Joanneumsviertel.

We kicked off with a round of networking bingo, designed to help attendees find common ground. Following this engaging icebreaker, Réka Artner, the head of the BOLD community, took the stage to introduce today’s hosts.

Joining us are Jürgen Roth, Vice President of the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber, and Karl Hartleb, Managing Director of the Chamber of Commerce Styria. They enthusiastically highlighted Graz’s strengths in research and development, its numerous universities, and research centers, making it a thriving hub for young companies and innovators.

For our regular readers, you know what comes next: another round of inspiring moments where selected BOLD Minds share their stories in just three minutes each.

First up, Julie Garland delivers a quickfire presentation on Advanced Air Mobility, drawing from her extensive experience as CEO and Founder of Avtrain, Europe’s leading provider of drone safety training.

Next, Aura Pyykönen energizes the room with a report on the gender health gap and the ongoing impact of menopause on maternal health, a crucial issue still affecting women in 2024.

Felix Krainer follows, sharing how he uses TikTok and social media to raise awareness and drive action against plastic waste.

Manuel Eppert then delves into the challenges and opportunities for female-led tech companies, highlighting the significant funding disparities they face compared to their male counterparts.

Wrapping up the session, Pavel Koktyshev, founder of MOST Holding, introduces his fellow BOLD Minds to the state of innovation and entrepreneurship in Central Asia.

Thank you, Graz, for your warm welcome and vibrant participation!