Equity financing opportunities were the central theme of the third strategic meeting of the fifth edition of the beamUp lab program, which took place on May 21. The event was symbolically hosted by the Bulgarian Development Bank (BDB). Tsanko Arabadzhiev, BDB's executive director, initiated Gravity MeetUp III and detailed various products available to private businesses for development. Presentations from senior managers at BDB Microfinancing and the Capital Investments Fund introduced new models and mechanisms aimed at financing young companies.
"Today’s event once again reaffirmed our commitment to promoting innovation and supporting the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Bulgaria," stated Assoc. Prof. Dr Manyu Moravenov, CEO of the Bulgarian Stock Exchange. He added that joint efforts and targeted policies could enhance growth and international competitiveness for innovative Bulgarian companies.
The meeting featured Christoph Gatter, founder of Quendoo and an alumnus of beamUp lab, who shared his company's success story facilitated by funding from the Capital Investments Fund.
Several companies presented investor pitches during the meeting:
- Zoya.bg: A producer known for natural cosmetics, organic products, and superfoods with a significant international presence.
- Skillo: A SaaS platform focused on managing corporate learning and development.
- SAT Health: Developers of software solutions aiding informed health-related decisions in collaboration with healthcare professionals.
- Biofresh: A major manufacturer of natural cosmetics using local ingredients like rose oil.
- DAYE: Innovators in women's healthcare gaining global media attention.
All participating companies received constructive feedback from investors affiliated with the beamUp lab program.
Gravity MeetUp III brought together representatives from 20 selected companies participating in this edition of the beamUp lab program along with its partners and advisors.