More than 35 Armenian tech companies participated in London Tech Week from June 12 to 16, 2023, as part of the British Embassy Yerevan’s delegation. London Tech Week is the UK’s largest festival of technology, featuring a central program and a vibrant array of associated activities. It serves as a hub where the UK, Europe’s top tech ecosystem, welcomes the world.
Tailored Opportunities for Armenian Tech Companies
The British Embassy in Yerevan, alongside the UK Government’s Department for Business and Trade and other departments, secured exclusive VIP Trade Delegation Passes for Armenian companies. They organized a tailored program of events, providing Armenian delegates with unique opportunities to enhance their businesses. Participants received tips on pitching for funding, learned from peers, found solutions for growth, and connected with investors. This program allows them to tap into the wealth of expertise and contacts needed to explore and leverage the UK’s $1 trillion tech ecosystem, making it the perfect location for expansion.
Engaging Sessions and Expert Insights
On June 14, Armenian delegates participated in a private session titled “The United Kingdom, Springboard for Growth,” aimed at delegates from the Eastern Europe and Central Asia (EECA) region. The event opened with remarks from Lord Hutton of Furness and His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner for EECA, Kenan Poleo. Notably, two panellists from Armenia’s fast-growing tech companies, Picsart and Granatus Ventures, shared their insights. Before this event, His Excellency Varuzhan Nersesyan, Armenian Ambassador to the United Kingdom, welcomed the delegates.
Prime Minister’s Remarks
In his opening remarks at London Tech Week 2023, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak highlighted today’s momentous opportunities. He stated, “It’s great to be back at London Tech Week at what I think is a moment of huge opportunity. There is an opportunity for human progress that could surpass the Industrial Revolution in both speed and breadth. I believe the UK can achieve this goal because we start from a position of strength.”
He continued, “We have created 134 unicorns in the last decade – third in the world, behind only the US and China. We are one of the most digitally literate societies globally, with a higher percentage of STEM graduates than the US and four of the world’s top ten universities. The UK possesses extraordinary strengths in fintech, cyber, creative industries, and engineering biology. Moreover, it is the best place in Europe to raise capital, with more investment in tech here than in France and Germany combined.“