Blockstart & Beyond: the future of blockchain in Northwest Europe

Join this free event to discover digital opportunities for SMEs, connect with the region's blockchain ecosystem and access free training by experts.

Industry experts and SME's will showcase examples of the potential of blockchain technology in healthcare, agri-food, logistics and government during this interactive event that culminates in the official launch of Northwest Europe's blockchain ecosystem.

Smaller businesses and the public sector in Europe face similar hurdles when it comes to digital skills and adopting new technologies. Many do not have the resources to invest in research and development. So how can they make the most of blockchain technology?

Blockchain is a bit of a buzzword, but often SMEs and local governments are unclear how blockchain technology can benefit them. Get beyond the buzz about blockchain during this showcase of real-world blockchain projects in sectors where the technology is not currently commonplace.

Program

Hosted by Brightlands Smart Services Campus, the event will be an interactive, dynamic guide to the potential of blockchain. The day begins at 11:00 am with an introduction of Blockstart, the Brightlands Smart Services Campus and the North West Europe region, before starting with our first panel discussion on "Blockchain: to use or not to use?". After lunch, participants will go to breakout rooms to discuss the challenges and opportunities of blockchain in their sector (choice of AgroFood, Healthcare, Logistics, and Public Sector) before returning for a panel discussion by experts and SME's on "How to improve your business with blockchain technology". The next refreshment break will be accompanied by a showcase of blockchain solutions by SME's, giving attendees time to walk around and interact with SME's who are at the forefront of this technology. The event will conclude with a look to the future, with policy and business recommendations and the official kickoff of the region's blockchain ecosystem. Optional networking drinks will be offered from 5 p.m. onward.

Blockchain technology

Blockchain technology can seem daunting at first glance, so this event aims to make it easy and ensure participants leave with a deep understanding of what blockchain can do for them. The session will be interactive, with video content, quizzes, breakout rooms and plenty of opportunities to ask questions of the experts. After the event, participants will have access to previously recorded training sessions produced by Blockstart and will be considered official members of the North West Europe blockchain ecosystem, with access to future events and networking opportunities.

The agri-food, health, logistics and government sectors are crucial to building a sustainable future, and creating an efficient, secure and transparent value chain is paramount for SMEs in these sectors to thrive in today's digitized global market.

For anyone looking to connect with the blockchain ecosystem of Northwest Europe and develop a better understanding of the concrete uses of blockchain beyond the typical tech sphere, this event is not to be missed.