Learn. Engage. Grow. Connect.
At the Innovation Festival, we have a full lineup of interactive sessions, workshops and activities where you'll get to actively participate in the discussions on driving growth across the innovation community.
HIGHLIGHTED SESSIONS:
- webOS Hack-A-Thon
- Startup Pitch Competition
- Startup Launchpad
- LG NOVA Investor Demo Day
- Think-Tank Style Collaboration
- Interactive Panel Discussions
- Idea Sharing Workshops
Wednesday October 25, 2023
GROWTH THROUGH INNOVATION
webOS TV Platform Hackathon
Description:
New at the Innovation Festival this year, selected developers, working alongside LG Engineers, will get to explore new experiences for the smart TV using webOS TV Platform in this month-long hackathon.
15 Hackathon participants will have the opportunity to share their ideas on stage in front of LG Executives. Three will be named winners and go on to work with the LG team to launch their app or services on LG TVs.
webOS TV, a web-centric smart TV platform that powers LG Smart TVs, enables developers to create apps and third-party services to manage media, devices, security, networking, TV functionalities and more. The webOS TV Developer platform provides developers with the ability to build a service or app for webOS-based LG Smart TVs in millions of consumer homes today.
Judges:
Thomas Yoon, LG North America President & CEO
Jinyong (David) Kang
Matt Durgin, Vice President North America Content and Services
Startup Launchpad: Pitch Perfect
- Startups will share their pitch and receive feedback from venture capitalists.
- Polish skills needed to deliver the perfect pitch live.
- Refine the five key areas of a startup pitch.
Description:
Come ready to share your 4-minute pitch, and hear directly from investors and VCs. Aspiring entrepreneurs and startups will polish their pitching skills and hone in on delivering a captivating, undeniable pitch to investors and VCs. Led by a seasoned expert in startup coaching and investors, attendees will gain invaluable insights into crafting a compelling narrative that communicates their vision. Participants will refine their delivery, body language, and presentation skills through practical exercises and hands-on workshopping. Whether you're seeking funding or aiming to win over stakeholders, this session will equip you with the tools to present your startup's story effectively and unlock new growth opportunities.
Speakers:
Startup Launchpad: AI Startup Tools
Session Takeaways:
- Comprehensive Understanding: Grasp the intricate relationship between sustained growth and continuous innovation in today's business landscape.
- Practical AI Demonstrations: Understand real-world use cases that illustrate current and anticipated applications of AI, highlighting its transformative potential across sectors.
- Ethical Considerations: Delve into the moral implications of rapid innovation, ensuring sustainable and responsible growth.
Description:
Startups in today's competitive landscape require more than just innovative ideas; they need the power of AI to optimize, scale, and lead. Join us for a targeted session where you'll delve into specific AI tools that are revolutionizing how startups operate, enhancing efficiency, and scaling results.
Get a firsthand look at how CLEAN AI Technologies stands as a testament to this revolution. I will unveil our real-world applications and strategies, offering a clear blueprint on integrating these AI tools into your startup's workflow.
By the end of the masterclass, attendees had actionable insights tailored to their startup's needs. Understand not just the 'what' but the 'how' of AI implementation, empowering you to take immediate steps towards accelerated growth.
Speakers:
Nick Larson, Moderator, Silicon Valley Zombies Podcast
Valerie Trask, University of Washington
Startup Launchpad: Mentor Meetings
Session Takeaways:
Comprehensive Understanding: Grasp the intricate relationship between sustained growth and continuous innovation in today's business landscape.
Mentors:
Andrew Peters,
Nolie MacDonald, Clean AI Technologies
Jim Hornthal, Launchpad Central
Startup Launchpad: Start Smart - Cultivating Winning Teams
Session Takeaways:
- Scalability and Flexibility
- Leadership and Empowerment
- Holistic Team Composition
Description:
Discover the secrets of assembling cohesive teams that blend diverse talents harmoniously, learn how to navigate the challenges of rapid growth, and gain insights into fostering a collaborative culture that breeds innovation. Through real-world case studies and interactive exercises, you'll leave armed with actionable strategies to recruit, nurture, and lead teams that can drive your startup's evolution and triumph in the competitive tech landscape.
Speakers:
Our Planet Powered by AI: Discussion with author Mark Minevich
Session Takeaways:
Renowned AI strategist and pioneer Mark Minevich will join us for a discussion on how we can use artificial intelligence to create a sustainable future for humanity. His future book, "Our Planet Powered by AI" delivers an exciting and practical discussion of how to implement groundbreaking artificial intelligence technologies at every level of your organization.
In this session with Mark, attendees heard more about how AI can enable new business strategies, models and ecosystems of innovation and growth.
Speakers:
THURSDAY October 26, 2023
THE DAY TO BE VISIONARY
Opening Session: A Look into LG
Description:
Day 2 started off with Sokwoo Rhee, SVP of Innovation and Head of LG NOVA. Sokwoo shared an update on the LG NOVA Program and the Mission For the Future. In this session, he had special guest presenters:
Thomas Yoon, CEO of LG Electronics, North America
Dong-Su Kim CEO of LG Technology Ventures
Speakers:
Balancing Growth, Profit & Impact
In the fast-paced world of startups, finding the right equilibrium between growth, profit, and societal impact is an ongoing dilemma. In this session, seasoned entrepreneurs and strategic investors converge to dissect the intricate dance between scaling your startup rapidly and ensuring sustainable profitability. Hear about tested strategies, success stories, and cautionary tales from the tech frontier, so you walk away with the insights needed to strike this delicate balance.
Speakers:
Ellen Quirk, Moderator, Kismet Impact
Lydia Idem, LoftyInc Capital Management
Gilbert F. Amelio, Accredo Capital
Ignite Your Innovation: Embodied Design Thinking
Session Takeaways:
- Acquire a comprehensive understanding of design thinking principles and why it matters.
- Learn various ideation techniques to generate disruptive ideas and drive innovation.
- Gain a deep knowledge of bodystorming and its applications across industries.
- Develop the ability to leverage role play and physical movement as catalysts for creativity.
- Establish valuable connections with entrepreneurs across diverse industries, opening possibilities for collaboration and partnerships.
Description:
In this transformative workshop, we will explore the power of design thinking and its relevance across a range of dynamic industries. As an entrepreneur, you know that innovation is the key to success, and this workshop will provide you with the skills and knowledge to unleash your creativity and generate disruptive ideas that will set you apart from the competition.
Through engaging activities, ideation techniques, and industry-specific case studies, you will discover how bodystorming can revolutionize your approach to problem-solving and idea generation. By immersing yourself in the physical experiences of your users, you will gain deep insights that can inform the design and development of products, services, and experiences that truly resonate with your target market.
Speakers:
Think Tank: Build with LG
Description:
LG's vision is to become a Smart Life solution company. With a strong history of building products and services to create a better life for people and a better future for our planet, LG is seeking out new partners to explore innovations and technologies that will positively impact humanity. LG focuses on people's lifestyles and creating innovative solutions to help everyone enjoy a better life. Join this session to hear from leaders from across LG businesses share what is important to them and how they view the market. Participate in an open discussion with business leaders at LG on new ideas and areas for exploration and collaboration with LG.
Speakers:
Sokwoo Rhee, EVP at LG Electronics, Head of LG NOVA
John Han, Director, Technology Business Development at LG
Limor Schafman, Director, Strategy and Clean Tech Business Lead
Mission for the Future: Exhibitor Innovation Showcase
Expect an immersive experience as each exhibitor takes you on a deep dive into their technology, showcasing real-world applications and use cases that highlight the transformative potential of their innovations.
This showcase isn't just about product demos; it's an opportunity for you to engage with the trailblazers behind these startups. Ask questions, gain insights into their creative processes, and discover how they're poised to disrupt markets and challenge the status quo. Whether you're a seasoned investor, a curious entrepreneur, or simply someone passionate about the latest tech trends, this session promises to captivate, educate, and spark the spirit of innovation within you.
Speakers:
Will Barkis, Head of Grand Challenges and Ecosystem Development, LG NOVA
Lunch & Learn: Design & Scale Using Behavioral Science
Session Takeaways:
- An Introduction to Behavioral Science
- Learn how Tech Giants are using Behavioral Science and why Startups Need it
- Real-life examples of how Behavioral Science is applied to Marketing &
- Overcoming Product Challenges for Startups at Different Stages
- Expected outcomes from applying Behavioral Science at your Startup
Description:
Design and Scale Using Behavioral Science - We are building technology for the future, but have forgotten that our users still rely on a brain that hasn’t changed in 200,000 years. To design and scale successful products, learn how to leverage the power of behavioral science, and cater to the ancient decision-maker inside all of us.
Speakers:
Women in Tech Lunch Mastermind
Description:
Calling all trailblazing women in the tech industry! Join us for an inspiring lunch meetup where we celebrate the achievements and contributions of women in technology. This session aims to foster meaningful connections, share valuable experiences, and opportunities for moving forward in the tech world. Network with like-minded professionals, gain insights from successful women leaders, and be part of a supportive community that encourages diversity and inclusion in the tech sector. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your tech journey, this meetup promises an enriching experience filled with camaraderie and inspiration.
Speakers:
A New Market Cycle for Digital Health
Description:
The world of digital health is growing and changing. Join Megan Zweig, COO of Rock Health for a 20-minute presentation on the current market cycle for digital health.
Speakers:
Empowering Innovation: Growing with Corporate Incubators & Accelerators
Session Takeaways:
- Learn about corporate incubators - what they offer and how they are different.
- Hear about what each incubator is looking for when collaborating with startups.
- Explore both sides of the coin - the benefits and challenges of corporate incubators.
- Panelists will participate in mentoring sessions following the panel.
Description:
Explore how corporate incubators provide startups with resources, mentorship, and market access, accelerating their journey from ideation to market integration. Learn firsthand how these incubators guide startups through challenges, offer invaluable networking opportunities, and ensure sustainable scaling. Gain practical insights into forging fruitful collaborations between established corporations and agile startups. Elevate your startup by learning through the expert guidance of corporate incubators.
Speakers:
Laura Plunkett, Comcast NBCUniversal LIFT Labs
Think Tank: Exploring Transformative Solutions for Digital Health
Description:
The heightened focus on digital health as of late is driving a boom in technology innovation looking to solve the problems in healthcare today. As we take small steps and big leaps forward to bring more digital health technologies into the equation, let’s explore how we can catapult thoughtful change in a system that needs to continue to serve while creating the experience that we want for healthcare - a patient-first, more holistic approach to health. We’re bringing thought leaders and innovators together to discuss, share and explore new thinking around the many facets of digital healthcare that needs to be considered as we move forward with transformative change.
In these sessions, three to four Featured Experts will be invited per topic to give a short presentation 10 - 15 minutes total about the future of innovation in these topic areas. Then, the featured experts and attendees will participate in an open discussion on the ideas shared. The goal of the session is to collaborate and create solutions for the future. Facilitators will be available to guide the conversation with the audience.
Speakers:
Mentor Meetings with Speakers
Description:
Mentor Meetings create an opportunity for startups and entrepreneurs to meet with professionals who have a collection of experiences and wisdom to share.
Mentors will spend 30 minutes coaching up to 5 startups in a group setting.
Mentors:
Flossie Hall, Stella Foundation
Valerie Trask, Entrepreneurship Adjunct Professor University of Washington
Startup Pitch Competition
Description:
We're looking for truly innovative startups with great potential to create a positive impact on people and the planet to join us on stage at the LG Innovation Festival.
If chosen, you'll get the opportunity to present your company to investors, corporate partners and more.
Get recognized for the work your company is doing to build a better future.
Win prizes. Showcase your company to potential investors and corporate partners. Make connections to accelerate your business venture.
Our prestige judges panel in the past have included veteran entrepreneurs, LG executives, celebrity investors and venture capitalists.
Judges:
Sokwoo Rhee, EVP at LG Electronics & Head of LG NOVA
Sharmila Mulligan, Strategic Advisor, Investor & Board Member
Innovation & Disruption through Generative AI
Session Takeaways:
- Future Trends & Impacts
- Real-world Cases in the innovation and startup spaces
- Ethical Considerations - Building responsible AI solutions through data privacy, bias, transparency, and accountability
Description:
Join us for an insightful exploration into the realm of Generative AI, where innovation converges with disruption to create a landscape of unprecedented opportunities. In this thought-provoking session, a panel of visionary experts, thought leaders, and industry disruptors will unravel the profound impact of Generative AI on diverse sectors and its role in propelling innovation.
Speakers:
Think Tank: The Future of CleanTech
The conversation around CleanTech and sustainability has many layers. It is nacent and complex at the same time , with room for many different solutions that can lead us to the ultimate goal of a better planet. Join us for this collaboration style discussion with leading industry experts on cleantech and sustainability, and navigating the future of CleanTech. In the session, you’ll have the an opportunity to contribute to the conversation, to share your experience, ideas and brainstorm together on how we can continue to push forward and grow new solutions for sustainability.
In these sessions, three to four Featured Experts will be invited per topic to give a short presentation 10 - 15 minutes total about the future of innovation in these topic areas. Then, the featured experts and attendees will participate in an open discussion on the ideas shared. The goal of the session is to collaborate and create solutions for the future. Facilitators will be available to guide the conversation with the audience.
Speakers:
Mentor Meetings with Corporate Incubators & Behavioral Science
Description:
Mentor Meetings create an opportunity for startups and entrepreneurs to meet with professionals who have a collection of experiences and wisdom to share.
Mentors will spend 30 minutes coaching up to 5 startups in a group setting.
Mentors:
Innovation & Inclusion: The Power of Diversity in Tech
Session Takeaways:
- Impact of a team that welcomes inclusion and diversity.
- Fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement within their organizations.
- Impact of long-term commitment to inclusion.
Description:
This isn't your typical diversity conversation. Our main stage discussion will be a thoughtful, data-backed, and action-inciting conversation on how diversity and achieving equity is not just a feel good decision, but the best business decision.
Diversity impacts innovation. There is a lot of work still ahead of us to bring diversity into tech spaces, and this session delves into the relationship between diversity, inclusion, and innovation. Fostering inclusivity can catalyze creativity and boosts productivity, ultimately resulting in a stronger competitive edge. Engage in discussions that revolve around actionable approaches and real-world success stories, shared by seasoned experts and accomplished startup founders.
Speakers:
The New Economy: Raising Funding
Session Takeaways:
- Understanding the New Economy: Gain insights into the current economic trends, market shifts, and emerging opportunities in 2023.
- Navigating Funding Options: Venture capital, Angel investors, crowdfunding, grants and alternative financing methods.
- Harnessing the advancements in technology.
- Aligning with emerging investment trends.
Description:
Understanding the dynamics of the new economy is crucial for startups to align their strategies and stay relevant in a rapidly changing business environment.
In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, startups seeking funding are faced with unprecedented challenges and opportunities in the new economy. This illuminating session brings together a panel of seasoned investors who have successfully navigated the intricacies of the new economic landscape. Join us as we delve into the strategies, insights, and wisdom that can empower startups to secure the funding they need to thrive.
Speakers:
Flossie Hall, Stella Foundation
Think Tank: Future Technologies & Its Impact on Society
Description:
Future convergence is the multiplying factor of essential technologies, bringing exponential value. As we're doing great things with technology, and while people are fearful, we must remind ourselves that emerging technologies aren't a human replacement but a human extension. Accepting change and adapting to it is probably one of the leading human challenges it always has been. Transforming human mindsets is the main challenge when it comes to new technologies, and it's important that we work on changing that just as much as we work on making the most out of these convergences. In this session, we've brought in experts in human-to-machine interaction to discuss with attendees what's next in the transition to greater machine technology, how we can best use FutureTech, where this technology leads us, and other questions around the topic matter.
In these sessions, three to four Featured Experts will be invited per topic to give a short presentation 10 - 15 minutes total about the future of innovation in these topic areas. Then, the featured experts and attendees will participate in an open discussion on the ideas shared. The session's goal is to collaborate and create solutions for the future. Facilitators will be available to guide the conversation with the audience.
Speakers:
Christopher Ullrich, Cognixion
Darlene Damm, Global Grand Challenges Singularity University
Entrepreneurial Hindsights: What You Wish You Knew
Session Takeaways:
- Identifying and capitalizing on emerging trends and market disruptions.
- Overcoming failures and transforming setbacks into stepping stones.
- Fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement within their organizations.
- Balancing risk-taking and calculated decision-making to drive sustainable growth.
- Building strong networks, collaborations, and strategic partnerships.
- Maintaining work-life balance and preserving personal well-being amidst demanding entrepreneurial journeys.
Description:
Join us for a panel discussion featuring distinguished tech entrepreneurs who have invaluable experience in their respective industries. Through a candid exploration of their personal stories, our panelists will share their remarkable journey, offering insights, anecdotes, and strategies that have paved the way for their long-term success. They will reveal the pivotal decisions, game-changing strategies, and essential lessons they learned along the way, and adaptability in an ever-evolving business landscape.
Speakers:
Special Presentation: Award Winning Film-Maker, Amoghavarsha JS
Description:
As we close out the day, join us for a special presentation from filmmaker and wildlife photographer, Amoghavarsha JS. Amogh will share his thoughts on the power of storytelling in creating impact (from technology to film).
During the session, Amogh will highlight his journey in making:
- "Wild Karnataka" - A multi-award-winning piece, celebrated with two Grammys for its music and featured at the UN.
- "Song for Kiribati" - Made in collaboration with Ricky Kej, a multi-Grammy award winner, and President Anote Tong of Kiribati, this album was unveiled at the Paris Climate Convention by both the Indian Prime Minister and the French Premier.
- And an exclusive preview for - "Wild Mumbai" - A sneak peek into my forthcoming film on Mumbai’s urban wildlife. (This preview is a global exclusive)
