On December 10th, 2024 Bari hosts the W.IN. Innovation Speed Dating Forum, a dynamic platform for women innovators in aerospace to showcase their solutions, gain visibility and access mentorship and funding opportunities.

Supported by Regione Puglia, ARTI, the U.S. Mission to Italy, Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE), the National Foundation for Technological Innovation COTEC and Materias, this significant event aims to strengthen the innovation ecosystem in Southern Italy while fostering strong connections with the United States.

Structured as an open innovation event, the forum employs a unique speed-dating format focused on promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and leadership among women in the aerospace sector.

The first part is devoted to networking among W.IN. startups candidates, selected through an open call, with W.IN. Students, W.IN. Leaders and W.IN. Investors and takes place at Spazio Murat, Piazza del Ferrarese, 1. The second plenary part – open to the public participation – takes place at Kursaal Santalucia Theatre, Largo Adua, 5, from 3.30pm to 7.30pm, for talks, elevator pitches and the awards ceremony, where a jury of experts from Italy and the United States, coordinated by the President of the Scientific Committee of the U.S. Consulate General in Naples, will recognize the top three startups.

Throughout the event, thought-provoking speeches will challenge conventional thinking and inspire attendees to envision a future where innovation drives both technological advancements and broader societal change. Roundtable discussions will explore entrepreneurship, investment opportunities, and collaboration between public and private sectors.

The W.IN. Innovation Speed Dating Forum is a project created and led by Valentina Battista, the only Italian recipient of the prestigious International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) Impact Award 2024 conferred by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs and implemented by the Meridian International Center. 

The initiative is realized within the Regione Puglia and ARTI “Future4Puglia” project.

Funding is provided by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs with Meridian International Center as the implementing partner.

www.arti.puglia.it