For 15 years the World Forum for FDI has been the “Go-To” event for urban developers, ecosystem builders, investors as well as industry experts. In 2018, the World Forum for Foreign Direct Investment (short FDI) took place in Liverpool, UK, as part of the 2018 INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS FESTIVAL.
Altogether 10 festivals in one week attracted hundred of decision makers. topics ranged from Urban Development to Sustainable Energy, Healthcare as well as Sport, Culture and Travel.
Here a few take aways from the discussion:
1.) Brexit is a serious topic across the world! Surely also due to location of the World Forum, Brexit found its way in nearly every discussion but there is still a lot of misinformation around it.
2.) Startups and innovation hubs are valued as drivers for growth but the establishment of a sustainable innovation ecosystem is a challenge.
3.) There is a strong demand for more ecosystem development in overlooked areas but communities like Atlanta showcase that innovation happens everywhere – not just in Silicon Valley.
Sydney Calling
BTW: In 2019, The World Forum for FDI is going to Sydney, NSW, Australia! And we will attend again to share best practice and our experience in building ecosystems.