The LG NOVA Innovation Festival starts with specialized programming.
Startup Launchpad (Open to All Registered Attendees)
Created with startups and entrepreneurs in mind, these sessions serve as an opportunity for attendees to immerse themselves in a tailored program of workshops, mentorship sessions, and networking opportunities.
WebOS Hack-A-Thon (Invite Only)
We're looking for new ideas that will push the boundaries of how we view the Smart TV. In this hackathon, selected developers will have the opportunity to work with the LG Engineering team to explore new ideas for the TV using the webOS TV Platform. The Hack-a-thon kicks off in mid-September, with the final presentation at the Innovation Festival. Apply to be considered for the hackathon here.
LG NOVA Investor Demo Day (Invite Only)
An annual event where the top selected startups from the LG NOVA Mission for the Future 2023 Grand Challenge present to an invite-only audience of our ecosystem’s leading investors and partners. This year's Demo Day will be held in conjunction with the LG NOVA Innovation Festival on October 25th at the historic Hibernia in San Francisco.
LG NOVA Investor Demo Day offers the opportunity to hear directly from the founders and CEOs of top selected startups about the innovative companies they are running, as well as hear important updates from senior LG NOVA leaders and partners.
If you are an investor and you would like more information or would like to attend, please COMPLETE THIS FORM.
Startup Launchpad
1:30 PM - 5:30 PM
Session Takeaways
- Startups are invited to come in and share their pitch and receive feedback.
- Pitch training is aimed to polish skills needed to deliver the perfect pitch.
- Lean into the 5 key areas of a startup pitch.
- Startups will receive LIVE feedback from a panel of investors.
Description
Hear directly from investors and VCs. In this interactive session, aspiring entrepreneurs and startups will polish their pitching skills and hone in on delivering a captivating pitch that leaves a lasting impression to investors and VCs. Led by a seasoned expert in startup coaching AND investors attendees will gain invaluable insights into crafting a compelling narrative that communicates their vision with clarity and passion.
Through practical exercises and real-time feedback, participants will refine their delivery, body language, and presentation skills, boosting their confidence to engage potential investors, partners, and customers. Whether you're seeking funding or aiming to win over stakeholders, this session will equip you with the essential tools to present your startup's story effectively and unlock new opportunities for success.
Description
Here’s your chance to break the ice and foster connections with the LG NOVA team.
Description
Mentor Meetings create an opportunity for startups and entrepreneurs to meet with professionals who have a collection of experiences and wisdom to share.
Mentors will spend 30 minutes coaching up to 5 startups in a group setting.
Sign-up for the Mentor Meetings begins in mid-September.
Session Takeaways
- Scalability and Flexibility
- Leadership and Empowerment
- Holistic Team Composition
Description
Discover the secrets of assembling cohesive teams that blend diverse talents harmoniously, learn how to navigate the challenges of rapid growth, and gain insights into fostering a collaborative culture that breeds innovation. Through real-world case studies and interactive exercises, you'll leave armed with actionable strategies to recruit, nurture, and lead teams that can drive your startup's evolution and triumph in the competitive tech landscape.
This is the day to BE VISIONARY.
Join us on Thursday, October 26th for a full day of programming that highlights hot topics, gives you access to thought leaders across the tech industry, and inspires you to shape the future.
The agenda is being updated regularly, so check back as we add sessions, interactive activations, and speakers.
Morning Programming
9:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Exhibit Hall Opens
11:30 AM
Description
In the fast-paced world of startups, finding the right equilibrium between growth, profit, and societal impact is an ongoing dilemma. In this session, seasoned entrepreneurs and strategic investors converge to dissect the intricate dance between scaling your startup rapidly and ensuring sustainable profitability. Hear about tested strategies, success stories, and cautionary tales from the tech frontier, so you walk away with the insights needed to strike this delicate balance.
Session Takeaways
- Acquire a comprehensive understanding of design thinking principles and why it matters.
- Learn various ideation techniques to generate disruptive ideas and drive innovation.
- Gain a deep knowledge of bodystorming and its applications across industries.
- Develop the ability to leverage role play and physical movement as catalysts for creativity.
- Establish valuable connections with entrepreneurs across diverse industries, opening possibilities for collaboration and partnerships.
Description
In this transformative workshop, we will explore the power of design thinking and its relevance across a range of dynamic industries. As an entrepreneur, you know that innovation is the key to success, and this workshop will provide you with the skills and knowledge to unleash your creativity and generate disruptive ideas that will set you apart from the competition.
Through engaging activities, ideation techniques, and industry-specific case studies, you will discover how bodystorming can revolutionize your approach to problem-solving and idea generation. By immersing yourself in the physical experiences of your users, you will gain deep insights that can inform the design and development of products, services, and experiences that truly resonate with your target market.
Description
Mentor Meetings create an opportunity for startups and entrepreneurs to meet with professionals who have a collection of experiences and wisdom to share.
Mentors will spend 30 minutes coaching up to 5 startups in a group setting.
Sign-up for the Mentor Meetings begins in mid-September.
Description
The heightened focus on digital health as of late is driving a boom in technology innovation looking to solve the problems in healthcare today. As we take small steps and big leaps forward to bring more digital health technologies into the equation, let’s explore how we can catapult thoughtful change in a system that needs to continue to serve while creating the experience that we want for healthcare - a patient-first, more holistic approach to health. We’re bringing thought leaders and innovators together to discuss, share and explore new thinking around the many facets of digital healthcare that needs to be considered as we move forward with transformative change.
In these sessions, three to four Featured Experts will be invited per topic to give a short presentation 10 - 15 minutes total about the future of innovation in these topic areas. Then, the featured experts and attendees will participate in an open discussion on the ideas shared. The goal of the session is to collaborate and create solutions for the future. Facilitators will be available to guide the conversation with the audience.
Lunch Time Programming
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
Description
Expect an immersive experience as each exhibitor takes you on a deep dive into their technology, showcasing real-world applications and use cases that highlight the transformative potential of their innovations.
This showcase isn't just about product demos; it's an opportunity for you to engage with the trailblazers behind these startups. Ask questions, gain insights into their creative processes, and discover how they're poised to disrupt markets and challenge the status quo. Whether you're a seasoned investor, a curious entrepreneur, or simply someone passionate about the latest tech trends, this session promises to captivate, educate, and spark the spirit of innovation within you.
Description
Calling all trailblazing women in the tech industry! Join us for an inspiring lunch meetup where we celebrate the achievements and contributions of women in technology. This session aims to foster meaningful connections, share valuable experiences, and opportunities for moving forward in the tech world. Network with like-minded professionals, gain insights from successful women leaders, and be part of a supportive community that encourages diversity and inclusion in the tech sector. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your tech journey, this meetup promises an enriching experience filled with camaraderie and inspiration.
Session Takeaways
- An Introduction to Behavioral Science
- Learn how Tech Giants are using Behavioral Science and why Startups Need it
- Real-life examples of how Behavioral Science is applied to Marketing & Overcoming Product Challenges for Startups at Different Stages
- Expected outcomes from applying Behavioral Science at your Startup
Description
Design and Scale Using Behavioral Science - We are building technology for the future, but have forgotten that our users still rely on a brain that hasn’t changed in 200,000 years. To design and scale successful products, learn how to leverage the power of behavioral science, and cater to the ancient decision-maker inside all of us.
Afternoon Programming
1:30 PM - 5:15 PM
Description
The conversation around CleanTech and sustainability has many layers. It is nacent and complex at the same time , with room for many different solutions that can lead us to the ultimate goal of a better planet. Join us for this collaboration style discussion with leading industry experts on cleantech and sustainability, and navigating the future of CleanTech. In the session, you’ll have the an opportunity to contribute to the conversation, to share your experience, ideas and brainstorm together on how we can continue to push forward and grow new solutions for sustainability.
In these sessions, three to four Featured Experts will be invited per topic to give a short presentation 10 - 15 minutes total about the future of innovation in these topic areas. Then, the featured experts and attendees will participate in an open discussion on the ideas shared. The goal of the session is to collaborate and create solutions for the future. Facilitators will be available to guide the conversation with the audience.
We're looking for truly innovative startups with great potential to create a positive impact on people and the planet to join us on stage at the LG Innovation Festival.
If chosen, you'll get the opportunity to present your company to investors, corporate partners and more.
Get recognized for the work your company is doing to build a better future.
Win prizes. Showcase your company to potential investors and corporate partners. Make connections to accelerate your business venture.
Our prestige judges panel in the past have included veteran entrepreneurs, LG executives, celebrity investors and venture capitalists.
Are you a startup interested in applying? Learn more HERE.
Session Takeaways
- Learn about corporate incubators - what they offer and how they are different.
- Hear about what each incubator is looking for when collaborating with startups.
- Explore both sides of the coin - the benefits and challenges of corporate incubators.
- Panelists will participate in mentoring sessions following the panel.
Description
Explore how corporate incubators provide startups with resources, mentorship, and market access, accelerating their journey from ideation to market integration. Learn firsthand how these incubators guide startups through challenges, offer invaluable networking opportunities, and ensure sustainable scaling. Gain practical insights into forging fruitful collaborations between established corporations and agile startups. Elevate your startup by learning through the expert guidance of corporate incubators.
Session Takeaways
- Future Trends & Impacts
- Real-world Cases in the innovation and startup spaces
- Ethical Considerations - Building responsible AI solutions through data privacy, bias, transparency, and accountability
Description
Join us for an insightful exploration into the realm of Generative AI, where innovation converges with disruption to create a landscape of unprecedented opportunities. In this thought-provoking session, a panel of visionary experts, thought leaders, and industry disruptors will unravel the profound impact of Generative AI on diverse sectors and its role in propelling innovation.
Description
Mentor Meetings create an opportunity for startups and entrepreneurs to meet with professionals who have a collection of experiences and wisdom to share.
Mentors will spend 30 minutes coaching up to 5 startups in a group setting.
Sign-up for the Mentor Meetings begins in mid-September.
Session Takeaways
- Impact of a team that welcomes inclusion and diversity.
- Fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement within their organizations.
- Impact of long-term commitment to inclusion.
Description
This isn't your typical diversity conversation. Our main stage discussion will be a thoughtful, data-backed, and action-inciting conversation on how diversity and achieving equity is not just a feel good decision, but the best business decision.
Diversity impacts innovation. There is a lot of work still ahead of us to bring diversity into tech spaces, and this session delves into the relationship between diversity, inclusion, and innovation. Fostering inclusivity can catalyze creativity and boosts productivity, ultimately resulting in a stronger competitive edge. Engage in discussions that revolve around actionable approaches and real-world success stories, shared by seasoned experts and accomplished startup founders.
Session Takeaways
- Understanding the New Economy: Gain insights into the current economic trends, market shifts, and emerging opportunities in 2023.
- Navigating Funding Options: Venture capital, Angel investors, crowdfunding, grants and alternative financing methods.
- Harnessing the advancements in technology.
- Aligning with emerging investment trends.
Description
Understanding the dynamics of the new economy is crucial for startups to align their strategies and stay relevant in a rapidly changing business environment.
In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, startups seeking funding are faced with unprecedented challenges and opportunities in the new economy. This illuminating session brings together a panel of seasoned investors who have successfully navigated the intricacies of the new economic landscape. Join us as we delve into the strategies, insights, and wisdom that can empower startups to secure the funding they need to thrive.
Description
FutureConvergence is the multiplying factor of essential technologies, bringing exponential value. As we're doing great things with technology, and while people are fearful, we must remind ourselves that emerging technologies aren't a human replacement but a human extension. Accepting change and adapting to it is probably one of the leading human challenges it always has been. Transforming human mindsets is the main challenge when it comes to new technologies, and it's important that we work on changing that just as much as we work on making the most out of these convergences. In this session, we've brought in experts in human-to-machine interaction to discuss with attendees what's next in the transition to greater machine technology, how we can best use FutureTech, where this technology leads us, and other questions around the topic matter.
In these sessions, three to four Featured Experts will be invited per topic to give a short presentation 10 - 15 minutes total about the future of innovation in these topic areas. Then, the featured experts and attendees will participate in an open discussion on the ideas shared. The session's goal is to collaborate and create solutions for the future. Facilitators will be available to guide the conversation with the audience.
Session Takeaways
- Identifying and capitalizing on emerging trends and market disruptions.
- Overcoming failures and transforming setbacks into stepping stones.
- Fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement within their organizations.
- Balancing risk-taking and calculated decision-making to drive sustainable growth.
- Building strong networks, collaborations, and strategic partnerships.
- Maintaining work-life balance and preserving personal well-being amidst demanding entrepreneurial journeys.
Description
Join us for an panel discussion featuring distinguished tech entrepreneurs who have invaluable experience in their respective industries. Through a candid exploration of their personal stories, our panelists will share their remarkable journey, offering insights, anecdotes, and strategies that have paved the way for their long-term success. They will reveal the pivotal decisions, game-changing strategies, and essential lessons they learned along the way, and adaptability in an ever-evolving business landscape.
Closing Session & Reception
5:00 PM - 7:15 PM
Description
Join us for the grand finale of the LG NOVA Innovation Festival. As we bid farewell to an incredible conference, this closing session and reception create a chance to celebrate the power of innovation and the transformative ideas that have been shared throughout the event. It’s a time to reflect on the knowledge gained, connections made, and the inspiration that will fuel future endeavors.
Included in the Grand Finale:
- Winners from the Startup Pitch Competition are announced
- A special panel with Young Entrepreneurs who will share their lessons learned and desires for the future of technology.
After two days of exhilarating discussions, inspiring presentations, and networking opportunities, the closing reception promises to close out the Innovation Festival in style.