Founders in focus at IIW 2025
At Iceland Innovation Week 2025, we’ve crafted special tracks designed to bring real value to founders. From hands-on workshops and inspiring keynotes to pitching opportunities and exclusive mixers, every element is tailored to help founders grow, connect, and succeed. Here is our founders guide to Iceland Innovation Week 2025
Founder’s day
For the first time, we’ll be kicking off Iceland Innovation Week 2025 with a special Founder’s Day on May 13th. Hosted with The Reykjavik Science Park and Mýrin Innovation Center, this day is all about empowering founders with tools, insights, and connections to elevate their startups.
With a Startup Ticket, access exclusive workshops on funding, scaling, sales, marketing and leadership, plus curated networking opportunities designed to spark collaboration and growth. Start your week strong and connect with the festival’s vibrant startup community!
The Fermented Shark Tank
Whilst getting ready for our Founder’s day make sure you have the stomach for The Fermented Shark Tank, our biggest pitch competition yet! This year we are joining forces with the Iceland Business Angel Network, IceBAN for a challenge that spans two days.
On Day 1 — May 14th, the semi-finals will see startups battle it out for a spot in the top five, each of them taking a bite of fermented shark before pitching.
On Day 2 — May 15th, the finalists will step onto the big stage, presenting their companies to an audience of investors, industry leaders, and festival-goers, as the final event of Iceland Innovation Week 2025.
Exclusive Founder & Investor Mixer – Apply Now!
After the Founder’s Day program wraps up, we’re hosting an invite-only Founder & Investor Mixer to bring together the brightest founders and top investors attending Iceland Innovation Week 2025.
This is your chance to make meaningful connections in an intimate setting, exchange ideas, and maybe even find your next big opportunity. Founders can apply for an invitation—don’t miss out on this unique chance to network. Spots are limited, so get your application in early here!
Maximize Your Festival Experience: Become a Startup Partner!
For startups looking to make the most of Iceland Innovation Week, the best way is to become a Startup Partner. Here’s what’s included:
Tickets for you and discount for your team to access all the action
Discounts on an onsite booth or a side event space to showcase your startup and stand out
Exclusive invitation to our Founder & Investor Mixer on May 13th, where you can connect with investors
Don’t miss this opportunity to amplify your presence and make meaningful connections. Let’s put your startup in the spotlight!
Iceland Innovation Week 2025 — Festival Outline & Program 🎉
Day 0 — May 13th: Investor & Founder’s day
Investor Day for Investor Pass holders. Founder’s Day for Startup Pass holders— Exclusive workshops, panels, and events tailored for startup founders.
Day 1— May 14th: Takeover Day
Talks and events exploring the hottest topics today related to tech, startups and creativity.
Day 2 — May 15th: Ok, bye Climate Day
A full day focused on the climate solutions moving the needle in the space and the investors funding them, featuring the Ok, bye Climate Theatre and the Fermented Shark Tank finale.
Side Events: Taking place throughout the week, our side events showcase the creativity and energy of the innovation community.