Google Cloud partners with Cornwall Slush'D to support local founders

Google Cloud has been announced as the official partner of the Pitch Competition at this year's Slush'D event, taking place on 12 September in Cornwall.

The Pitch Competition will see 10 finalists presenting their innovative ideas to a panel of three judges, culminating in the selection of one winner.

James Lee, General Manager, Startups and AI at Google Cloud, said: “At Google Cloud, we believe that startups have shaped the world we live in today and will continue to do so in the decades ahead. It’s our pleasure to partner with Tech Cornwall, and equip their founders with our open and optimised stack for AI, broad choice of infrastructure solutions, and many important resources tailored for startups.”

Google Cloud leverages AI, data insights, industry-specific infrastructure, collaboration tools, and robust security to drive digital transformation. It deepens support for early-stage startups through the Google for Startups Cloud Program, offering credits, technical training, expert guidance, curated resources, and benefits for AI and Web3 development, helping startups scale faster and smarter.

Niki Davies, Director of Tech Cornwall and host of Cornwall Slush’D 2024, said: “We’re delighted to partner with Google Cloud for Cornwall Slush’D and welcome them to the south-west. The event is designed to be the most founder-focused event in the south, and this partnership will provide early-stage founders with the chance to access a robust technical platform with support from one of the world's biggest tech companies.”

New Features for Cornwall Slush'D 2024

In addition to the Pitch Competition, Cornwall Slush'D 2024 will introduce several exciting new features designed to enhance the experience for founders and attendees:

• Venture Village: New for this year, the Venture Village will allow startups to apply to showcase their technology as part of the exhibition, providing them with the opportunity to connect with potential investors and customers.

• Demo Night with Canopy Community: Also new for this year, we are partnering with Canopy Community to host a Demo Night. This event will allow founders to demo their products to a friendly audience and receive valuable feedback, helping to shape their product roadmaps. Unlike a pitch competition, Demo Night focuses on demonstrating the functionality and potential of the product. We are grateful to Canopy Community and Cornwall Trade and Investment for their partnership on the Demo Night.

• Workshops and Mentoring: Attendees can participate in hands-on workshops and mentoring sessions led by industry experts, providing practical skills and personalised advice.

Success Stories from Cornwall Slush’D 2023

“Cornwall Slush'D, has left me feeling invigorated, empowered, and immensely grateful for the amazing experiences I have had today. This conference has been a rollercoaster of inspiration, knowledge, and connection, and I couldn't be happier with the way it all unfolded.” Naily Makangu, Founder & 2023 Slush'D speaker, Athena Leaders

“A line up of thought-provoking speakers, hugely informative panels, a brilliant business support community willing these new tech businesses on. Surrounding yourself with people on the same journey has been hugely motivating.” Ally Glover, Co-Founder & MD, Happy Business

"The best event I attended in the south-west last year" Stewart Noakes, Entrepreneur, Advisor, Non-Exec. Director

Keynote Speakers and Panels

This year’s event will feature keynote addresses from renowned tech entrepreneurs which will be announced soon.

Panel discussions will cover topics such as building a thriving tech startup ecosystem, securing investment, and hearing from founders who have exited their startup. 

Networking Opportunities

Cornwall Slush'D will offer structured networking opportunities via an app, including one-on-one connectivity for investors and founders, meeting slots and dedicated networking spaces with an exhibition, ensuring attendees can make meaningful connections throughout the event and plan their day.