Podim 2026 – Maribor, Slovenia
Overview
Podim 2026 stands as one of the most influential startup and technology events in the Alps-Adriatic and Western Balkans regions, transforming the charming city of Maribor into a dense hub of innovation. For over four decades, this boutique conference has specialized in connecting high-growth startups with global investors and corporate leaders. Unlike massive, impersonal tech fairs, Podim intentionally limits its attendance to around 1,000 participants to ensure that every interaction has the potential to turn into a meaningful business partnership.
The event is renowned for its highly curated “Deal Room,” a sophisticated matchmaking platform that facilitates over 1,300 one-on-one meetings in just two days. This structured approach to networking allows founders to skip the small talk and dive directly into investment discussions and strategic collaborations. The program is further enriched by the presence of over 50 international speakers who share hands-on wisdom on scaling businesses, mastering deep tech, and navigating the complexities of modern venture capital.
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Beyond the formal meetings, Podim is famous for its vibrant community atmosphere that spills out into the streets and venues of Maribor. The festival atmosphere is anchored by the Podim Pitching Competition, where the most promising startups in the region battle for prestigious growth packages and global exposure. It is more than a conference; it is a gateway for regional talent to enter the global stage while experiencing the authentic hospitality and entrepreneurial energy of Slovenia.
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Event Highlights
- Podim Deal Room: A dedicated matchmaking system that pre-arranges hundreds of high-value, 1:1 meetings between startups, scaleups, and verified international investors.
- Pitching Competition: A high-stakes tournament where handpicked startups showcase their innovations to a professional jury for a chance to win significant business development rewards.
- Handpicked Speakers: A lineup of 50+ global industry leaders and successful founders who provide practical, no-nonsense insights on two main stages and through specialized workshops.
- Boutique Networking: The event’s “pocket-size” philosophy ensures that attendees have easy, personal access to speakers and mentors in a relaxed, productive environment.
Why Attend
This event is ideal for early-stage founders seeking capital, corporate executives looking for innovative technologies, and investors aiming to discover the hidden gems of the Western Balkans. Attending provides a rare opportunity to gain visibility in a highly competitive market while receiving direct feedback from seasoned mentors. The benefit of the limited capacity means you are never just a face in the crowd; you are a primary participant in an ecosystem designed for active deal-making and real-world growth.
For startups, the main advantage is the concentrated access to over 400 investors and corporate representatives who are specifically looking for collaboration. For others, the benefit lies in the intense knowledge exchange and the spirit of optimism that defines the Slovenian tech scene. Whether you are looking to close a seed round or simply want to learn from the best in the business, the connections made in Maribor often result in long-term professional success and international expansion.
Date & Duration
- Event Date: May 11 to May 13, 2026
- Event Duration: 3 Days
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Ticket Information
- How Tickets Are Sold: Tickets are available for purchase via the official event website with specific application processes for startup and media passes.
- Admission Type: Tiered admission including Startup, Scaleup, Investor, Corporate, and Basic Startup categories.
- Ticket Pricing: Prices range from $207 to $630 depending on the participant category and access to the Deal Room platform.
- Special Seating Options: General seating is available across all stages with specialized meeting zones in the Deal Room area.
- VIP Options: Enhanced passes for investors and corporate partners include full access to the startup catalogue and executive networking lounges.
Venue / Location
- City and Country: Maribor, Slovenia.
- Venue Name: Maribox Center and Narodni dom Maribor.
- Google Maps Address: Loška ulica 13, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia.
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Contact Information
- Email: info@podim.org
- Phone Number: +386 41 445 862
- Official Website: podim.org
- Social Media Links: linkedin.com/company/podim-conference
Getting There
- Nearest Airport: Graz Airport in Austria is approximately 37 miles away, while Ljubljana Airport is roughly 71 miles from the venue.
- Nearest Train/Metro Station: Maribor Central Railway Station is located in the city center and is within walking distance of the main venues.
- Bus Routes or Public Transport Options: Local bus lines serve the city center, and regional coaches provide direct links from major cities like Ljubljana and Zagreb.
- Parking Availability: Public parking areas are located near the Maribox Center and throughout the central district of Maribor.
- Directions by Car: The city is easily accessible via the A1 motorway from Ljubljana/Vienna or the E59 from Zagreb and Budapest.
What is this event?
Podim 2026 is a premier tech and startup conference that serves as a bridge between the regional innovation ecosystem and the global business world. It focuses on creating a high-density networking environment for founders, investors, and industry experts.
The event combines professional stage programs with a heavy emphasis on one-on-one deal-making and mentoring. It is designed to be the ultimate meeting point for anyone serious about the startup scene in Central and Eastern Europe.
Why is it popular?
The conference is popular because of its unique size, which allows for genuine human connections that are often lost at larger international tech summits. Its “Deal Room” platform is highly regarded for being incredibly effective at turning introductions into actual investments.
Attendees love the authentic “Podim vibe,” which mixes serious business discussions with high-energy social events and a scenic location. It has earned a reputation as one of the best-organized and most productive startup events in Europe.
Attendee Experiences
- The 1:1 meetings were incredibly well-organized and led to a follow-up meeting with a major VC just a week later.
- Unlike other huge conferences, I actually got to have a real conversation with the speakers after they left the stage.
- The atmosphere in Maribor during Podim is electric and you can feel the entrepreneurial energy in every cafe.
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FAQ's
What is the difference between a Startup ticket and a Basic Startup ticket?
The Startup ticket is the full experience which includes access to the Deal Room for 1:1 meetings, the Startup Catalogue, and the Marketplace to showcase your business. The Basic Startup ticket is a reduced-price option for early-stage teams who primarily want to watch the stage program and workshops without the matchmaking perks. Choosing the right one depends on whether your goal is active fundraising or just gaining knowledge from the speakers.
How does the Deal Room matchmaking process actually work?
Once you register with a full Startup or Investor ticket, you gain access to a digital platform where you can browse profiles and request meetings before the event begins. Both parties must agree to the meeting for it to be scheduled in a dedicated time slot during the conference days. This ensures that you only spend time talking to people who have a genuine interest in your business or investment profile.
Is the conference program suitable for individuals who are not tech founders?
While the core focus is on startups, the program is very beneficial for corporate innovators, researchers, and students interested in emerging technologies and modern business strategies. Many workshops cover universal skills like leadership, marketing, and sales that are applicable in various professional fields. It is also an excellent venue for corporate representatives to scout for new talent and digital solutions.
Will I need a car to get around the different venues in Maribor?
No, one of the biggest advantages of Podim is that the main venues like Maribox and Narodni dom are located within a very short walking distance of each other in the city center. Most recommended hotels, restaurants, and social event locations are also nearby, making the entire festival easily accessible on foot. This centralized setup encourages spontaneous networking as you move between different parts of the program.
What is the primary language used for the sessions and networking?
English is the official language of the Podim conference, and all stage talks, workshops, and official materials are provided in English. Because the event attracts a very international crowd of investors and speakers, you will find that almost all networking and business meetings are conducted in English. Local staff and volunteers are also fluent and happy to assist international guests in English throughout the week.
