Podim 2025

Discover your potential for innovation at Podim: the leading startup and technology event in Central and Eastern Europe.

This gathering is designed for startups, scaleups, visionary investors, and progressive business leaders, as well as anyone interested in innovative ideas and networking opportunities.

Welcome to Podim

Your pathway to innovation and development

Established in 1980 and located in Slovenia, Podim has become the foremost startup and tech event in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE), where innovation meets business prospects, investment opportunities, knowledge sharing, and expertise. Each year, it highlights the region's potential and connects it with a global network of stakeholders eager to collaborate.

Your comprehensive 2.5-day experience

Join us in Maribor, Slovenia for an engaging in-person event. With a cap of 1,000 attendees, including startups, scaleups, investors, and corporations, you will have the chance to engage in significant discussions and build connections without feeling overwhelmed.

Podim's ongoing influence

In addition to the Podim summit, our initiatives such as Bootcamp, Demo Days, Satellite, and various networking events strengthen the ecosystem, provide additional engagement opportunities for Podim partners, and showcase available prospects.

Connect, network, and expand.

At the Podim Deal Room, you can meet investors and other relevant business individuals, receive expert mentoring to address your entrepreneurial challenges, and establish valuable connections. With over 1,300 one-on-one meetings, we facilitate extensive networking in just two days.

Startups and Scaleups are central to Podim’s mission. They advance through the Podim funnel to reach the final stage.

Become part of Podim's 40-year legacy.

With a history spanning 40 years, Podim promotes personal development and inspires innovative ideas. Join us to connect with leaders in innovation, discover keys to success, and enhance your entrepreneurial journey.

Collaborating for innovation with startups

Podim specializes in fostering corporate partnerships, bringing in new perspectives, and ensuring sustained success. Immerse yourself in our vibrant, productive environment and let Podim invigorate your business with positivity.

A cultural intersection

Located at the intersection of various cultures, Slovenia offers numerous adventures. From skiing to swimming in the sea within an hour, it is a destination for thrill-seekers. You will encounter friendly locals and enjoy delicious cuisine and excellent wines.

Bringing innovation to the community

“The core values of Podim drive us to shape the future we aspire to.” Matej Rus, Venture Factory & Podim, Slovenia

Stronger together in fostering a better environment for startups.

The owner and primary organizer of Podim is the nonprofit institute Tovarna podjemov (Venture Factory) based in Maribor. Partnerships have been the cornerstone of Podim since its inception; thus, we collaborate with various stakeholders in the startup ecosystem as co-organizers, partners, and supporters. Traditionally, the Slovene Enterprise Fund and the Slovenian Ministry of Economic Development and Technology co-organize the conference.