Extreme Tech Challenge Global Finals Agenda

TechCrunch Highlights the Extreme Tech Challenge Global Finals

TechCrunch consistently champions startup competitions, from our Extra Crunch Live Pitch-offs to the renowned Disrupt Startup Battlefield. We are pleased to collaborate with Extreme Tech Challenge (‘XTC’) to present the Extreme Tech Challenge Global Finals, a competition dedicated to fostering technologies that promote a more sustainable, equitable, inclusive, and healthy world.

About Extreme Tech Challenge

Extreme Tech Challenge stands as the world’s premier competition for transformative technology startups, providing a platform for future leaders to maximize their potential. In the previous year, the competition garnered applications from startups in 87 countries. Notably, a third of the XTC 2020 finalists collectively secured over $167M in venture funding following their selection.

A Broad Range of Applications

This year witnessed applications from over 3700 startups spanning 92 countries, competing across XTC’s diverse tracks. These include Agtech, Food & Water, Cleantech & Energy, Edtech, Enabling Tech, Fintech, Healthtech, and Mobility & Smart Cities. You can view the 80 Global Finalists who emerged from this highly competitive selection process. Category and Special Awards winners will advance to the Global Finals stage.

Event Details & Registration

Participate in the Extreme Tech Challenge on July 22nd to connect with the world’s leading purpose-driven startups dedicated to improving the world through innovative technology. This event offers opportunities to network with corporations, venture capitalists, and founders. Secure your complimentary tickets here!

Event Agenda Highlights

We are excited to unveil the event’s agenda.

Panel Discussion: Powering the Future

Young Sohn (XTC Co-Founder, Chairman of the Board, HARMAN International, Founding Managing Partner, Walden Catalyst) and Bill Tai (XTC Co-Founder, Partner Emeritus, Charles River Ventures), alongside Beth Bechdol (Deputy Director-General, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations) will lead a discussion on the future of technology.

The panel will explore the groundbreaking technological advancements reshaping industries and building a better world. They will also address how collaboration between business, government, philanthropy, and the startup ecosystem can drive positive change, including announcements regarding XTC and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.

Panel Discussion: Going Green

Shilpi Kumar (Urban Us), Jenny Rooke (Genoa Ventures), and Albert Wenger (Union Square Ventures) will discuss the economic and environmental importance of sustainability.

These experienced investors and founders will share their perspectives on greentech, its evolution, and the opportunities it presents for both venture capitalists and startups.

Startup Pitches – Part 1

The XTC Category and Special Awards Winners will present their transformative tech concepts to a panel of expert judges, receiving valuable feedback. XTC serves as a global network, connecting exceptional startups with investors, corporations, and mentors to facilitate funding, partnerships, and scaling of their impactful ventures.

Panel Discussion: Waste Matters

Leon Farrant (Green Li-ion), Matanya Horowitz (AMP Robotics), and Elizabeth Gilligan (Material Evolution) will address the global waste crisis.

With the U.S. generating 292.4 million tons of waste annually, this panel will explore technological solutions to this growing challenge, showcasing the unique approaches of Green Li-Ion, AMP Robotics, and Material Evolution.

Startup Pitches – Part 2

This second and final round provides the XTC Category and Special Awards Winners another opportunity to pitch their innovative technologies to the judging panel and receive expert evaluation.

Panel Discussion: Cutting Out Carbon Emitters

Aaron Nesser (AlgiKnit), Jennifer Holmgren (LanzaTech) and Patricia Bubner (Orbillion Bio) will discuss the potential of bioengineering.

Bioengineering offers promising, low-carbon alternatives across various industries. This panel will explore how Algiknit, Orbillion, and LanzaTech are leveraging biological processes to create low-carbon textiles, lab-grown meats, and fuels from waste emissions, respectively.

Winners Announcement & Networking

The judging panel will announce the global winner of the Extreme Tech Challenge 2021 and recognize the recipient of the Female Founder Award.

Connect with thousands of investors, corporate leaders, startups, and policymakers through video chat networking opportunities.

Join the Extreme Tech Challenge on July 22nd to engage with the world’s most impactful purpose-driven startups. Network with corporations, VCs, and founders. Register for your free tickets here!