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In the ever-evolving world of entrepreneurship, taking the leap into new markets is daunting, especially when navigating the competitive and fast-paced ecosystem of the United States. Recognizing this challenge, the Italian Trade Agency (ITA) developed the Global Startup Program, a transformative initiative designed to equip Italian startups with the tools, knowledge, and networks they need to succeed internationally.
Now in its 5th edition, the program has become a launchpad for ambitious Italian scale-ups, bridging the gap between Italy’s thriving startup scene and the dynamic opportunities in the U.S. market. This year’s program was powered by Elpis Labs and Starta VC, two leading organizations dedicated to accelerating startup growth and fostering cross-border innovation.
What Was the Global Startup Program?
The ITA Global Startup Program was more than just an accelerator—it was a comprehensive journey designed to guide Italian startups through the complexities of scaling globally. By providing a blend of expert mentorship, hands-on workshops, and exposure to top-tier investors and industry leaders, the program empowered participants to refine their business models and expand their global footprint.
This year’s program was hosted in New York City, a global hub for entrepreneurship and innovation. The city offered the perfect backdrop for startups to connect with potential investors, clients, and strategic partners while gaining invaluable market insights.
The 2024 Edition Highlights
Workshops and 1:1 Mentorships: From market entry strategies to pitch polishing, startups received tailored guidance to enhance their business acumen.
Pitch Nights: Weekly pitch events gave participants a platform to present their solutions to a curated audience of investors, corporate partners, and seasoned entrepreneurs. The feedback received during these events was instrumental in fine-tuning their go-to-market strategies.
Demo Day: Held on Thursday, November 14, 2024, the Demo Day was the program’s grand finale. Hosted in Flatiron, NYC, this exclusive evening showcased the startups’ progress and potential over a fine dinner, connecting them with a diverse audience of investors and partners.
For those who couldn’t join—or for anyone who wanted to revisit the pitches—a recap video is available Here
The Role of Elpis Labs and Starta VC
This year’s success was driven by the expertise and resources of Elpis Labs, which played a pivotal role in designing the program structure and coordinating key workshops, and Starta VC, whose accelerator framework and network connections amplified the startups’ market reach.
By combining their strengths, these organizations created an ecosystem where Italian startups could thrive, enabling seamless entry into the competitive U.S. market.
Building a Global Ecosystem
Collaboration was at the heart of the Global Startup Program. The initiative partnered with key players, including venture capital firms, corporate innovators, and industry mentors, to create a supportive ecosystem that empowered startups to succeed.
The program also emphasized cultural and professional exchange, helping Italian entrepreneurs understand the nuances of the U.S. market while showcasing Italy’s unique strengths as a hub of creativity and innovation.
The 2024 Global Startup Program demonstrated the transformative power of cross-border collaboration and innovation. With the support of the Italian Trade Agency, Elpis Labs, and Starta VC, the participating startups not only expanded their horizons but also showcased the ingenuity and entrepreneurial spirit of Italy on a global stage.
