MedTech Malta 2024 Commences with Investor and CEO-Only Forums
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As the MedTech Malta 2024 conference gears up for its official start, MedTech World and Lifeblood have introduced two exclusive, invitation-only gatherings on Day 0 at the Excelsior Hotel. These sessions are designed specifically for MedTech startup CEOs and institutional investors, creating spaces for candid and targeted discussions among industry peers.
The Investor-Only and CEO-Only forums offer an innovative approach to networking and professional development, providing these two key groups with the chance to openly address challenges, share strategies, and engage in discussions that are often difficult to have with the opposite side of the industry present.
Investor-Only Forum: A Space for Strategy, Collaboration, and Vision
The Investor Forum at MedTech Malta marks its inaugural run, building on the successful foundation set by prior CEO-Only Forums. Demand for an investor-focused session has grown significantly, as stakeholders increasingly seek a space where they can engage in meaningful conversations about industry challenges, board management, exit strategies, and collaborative opportunities—without the added pressure of startup pitches.
Guided by Diane Bouis, MedTech World’s U.S. Director, the forum brought together a carefully curated group of 40 seasoned investors from venture capital firms, corporate venture capital arms, and angel syndicates. This intimate group gathered with a shared mission: to engage in honest, unfiltered dialogue about the nuances of investing in MedTech.
In true MedTech World fashion, the forum adopted a sports-inspired structure. Bouis enlisted “point-guards” from various geographies, investment stages, and thesis focuses to facilitate and steer discussions. These investors, representing an impressive array of firms, included Amanda Yahan Chang of Yellowstone Holding, David Kereiakes from Windham Capital Partners, Reinhard Krickl of Haden Ventures, Hirak Parikh from Johnson & Johnson’s JJDC, Soyoung Park of 1004 Venture Partners, and Steven Levy of Unorthodox Ventures.
With perspectives shaped by diverse portfolios and strategic approaches, these point-guards led a lively conversation on pressing topics, including market trends, portfolio diversification, the nuances of partnering with MedTech startups, and the challenges of navigating ever-evolving regulatory environments. Attendees also tackled questions about balancing financial returns with positive patient outcomes, a balancing act central to MedTech investing.
An investor attendee commented, “This forum provided a refreshing environment to delve into the complex realities of investing in the MedTech space. Being surrounded by peers allowed us to speak freely about issues that are often only hinted at in larger industry conferences. The insights gained here will be invaluable as we move forward with our investment strategies.”
CEO-Only Forum: “MedTech CEO Therapy”
In parallel with the Investor-Only Forum, the MedTech CEO-Only Forum continued its tradition of providing a supportive, open forum for MedTech leaders. This event is an opportunity for CEOs to discuss the realities of their roles and the unique challenges they face, from funding and team dynamics to managing board expectations and building sustainable business strategies.
This year, the session was curated by Giovanni Lauricella, CEO of Lifeblood, who is no stranger to the challenges of scaling MedTech companies. Giovanni encouraged attendees to approach the session with openness and a willingness to share, creating a dynamic exchange of knowledge and experience. By design, the forum excludes other executives and stakeholders, allowing CEOs to speak with transparency about their leadership journeys, the hurdles they face, and the often-hidden burdens of steering a MedTech company.
“We wanted CEOs to feel free to address topics that might be difficult to discuss elsewhere, from tough hiring decisions to the emotional toll of constant fundraising,” Lauricella shared. “There’s no topic too small or too daunting—everything is on the table.”
The CEO-Only Forum was split into two sessions, each with its own group of point-guards to guide and anchor discussions. During the first session, Tushar Sharma (Vivifi Medical), Julie Rachline (Braintale), Robert Hamilton (NeuraSignal), Umaima Ahmad (52North), Ina Laura Perkins (RealHeart), and David McDonough (Northgate Technologies) led the conversation. In the afternoon, Daniel Hawkins (Vista.ai), Yuval Mandelbaum (Discure Technologies), Ruben De Francisco (Onera Health), Meagan Pitcher (Bairitone), Andreas Forsland (Cognixion), and Amir Gross (Cardiovalve) stepped in as point-guards.
Topics discussed ranged from practical concerns like vendor management and team building to more nuanced issues like managing personal resilience and staying innovative in a fast-evolving industry. Fundraising remained a significant point of discussion, but it was framed within a larger conversation on the psychological and operational demands unique to leading a MedTech startup.
A CEO participant noted, “This forum isn’t just about problem-solving; it’s about finding solidarity. Hearing from others who have tackled similar challenges, or even different ones, reminds us that we’re part of a wider MedTech community. It was incredibly empowering.”
A Platform for Progress
These forums exemplify MedTech World’s commitment to fostering meaningful connections within the MedTech industry, providing a space for both investors and CEOs to explore new solutions, refine strategies, and build partnerships. As Day 0 of MedTech Malta 2024 unfolded, attendees across the board were empowered with fresh perspectives, ready to dive into the full conference with strengthened resolve and a clear sense of direction.
Get Ready for MedTech Malta 2025: Pre-Register Today!
Eager for more innovation and connection? Don’t miss your chance to join the MedTech community in Malta next year. Book your seat now for MedTech Malta 2025 and secure your place at the ultimate event for MedTech leaders!
