PANEL: Investing in The Next Big Thing
Investing in the Next Big Thing
10 September | 16:00–16:30
Main Stage, Tech Open, Stockholm
Where is the smartest money going next?
Every year, thousands of startups are founded, but only a handful go on to define the next decade. So what separates the companies that attract the world's best investors from everyone else?
Join some of Europe's leading venture investors as they discuss where they're placing bets in 2026, the technologies they're most excited about, and the signals they look for before writing the first check.
From AI and developer tools to climate, fintech, robotics, and emerging technologies, this panel explores where venture capital is heading—and what founders should be building for the future.
What we'll discuss
Together, we'll explore:
The sectors attracting the most investor interest in 2026
The technology trends shaping the next decade
What makes a startup stand out before traction
How investors identify exceptional founders early
Why some opportunities become category leaders while others are overlooked
Where Europe has the greatest opportunity to build the next generation of global technology companies
Expect an honest conversation filled with practical insights, investment perspectives, and forward-looking predictions from investors actively backing tomorrow's most ambitious founders.
Who should attend?
This panel is ideal for:
Founders
Aspiring entrepreneurs
Startup teams
Investors
Students
Anyone interested in venture capital, startups, and emerging technology
What you'll gain
You'll leave with:
A clearer understanding of where venture capital is heading
Insights into what investors are looking for in 2026
A better understanding of emerging technology trends
Practical advice for founders building the next generation of startups
Moderator
Sophie Rogers
Speakers
Magnus Humbleton (General Partner, byFounders)
John Elvesjö (Partner, Node VC)
Max Larsson (Investor, Wave Ventures)
Maria Lindholm (CEO, Wellstreet)
This panel is part of Tech Open, the free open-air tech conference taking place during Nordic Tech Week in the heart of Stockholm.