Alokta

Last week, we had the privilege of attending a transformative event centered on the circular economy. A highlight of the event was the launch of TERRA MATTERS GIE Circularity Datasheet solution - an effective tool that empowers businesses to track, measure, and optimize their circularity. This innovative approach redefines transparency, setting new standards for industries to embrace sustainable and regenerative models. Key takeaways that inspire us as a fintech startup: ✔️Circular economy isn't just about sustainability — it's about business resilience. Companies that embed circular models into their operations drive both environmental and economic impact. ✔️Purpose attracts talent. Today's workforce prioritizes companies with clear sustainability goals, proving that purpose-driven innovation is key to attracting and retaining top talent. ✔️Transparency is the new currency. Solutions like TerraMatters' Circularity Datasheet demonstrate how empowering stakeholders with clear, actionable data fosters trust and innovation. Hearing success stories - from chemical recycling breakthroughs to reimagined supply chains — was a powerful reminder that every industry, including fintech, has a vital role to play in building a sustainable future. At Alokta we're committed to integrating these principles into our vision. Whether leveraging data to enhance transparency or fostering trust across value chains, we see endless possibilities to contribute to a more circular economy. Luxembourg Chamber of Commerce Lex Delles Ministère de l'Économie - Luxembourg, Raphaël Masvigner, Matthew Fraser, Carlo Thelen, Jérôme Dierickx, Jerome Petry, Raymond Faber, Anne-Marie LOESCH, Christel Chatelain

At this year’s #WebSummit in Lisbon, it became clear that standing out in today’s world means embracing the “new creative economy,” fostering collaboration, and leveraging innovation across borders. The size and diversity of Luxembourg’s delegation at the Summit reflected strong interest in driving global solutions. As H.R.H. Prince Guillaume said during the networking cocktail at the #Luxembourg Embassy in Lisbon, “Multiculturalism and openness are at the heart of our success, enabling us to connect, negotiate, and create accessible opportunities for all. Together, business and public sectors are building bridges that foster effective collaboration and innovative solutions”. Startup Luxembourg Luxembourg Embassy in Lisbon Luxembourg Chamber of Commerce Luxembourg Trade and Invest #LUinPortugal #websummit2024

Web Summit in full swing!

1-2-3, go! “Great to be back in sunny Portugal this November,” says Paddy Cosgrave, and we couldn’t agree more! Stay tuned — updates are coming soon from Web Summit! #websummit2024! #websummit

Standing out to investors requires more than just a great idea 💡 At a pre #websummit session led by Jeffery Potvin (JP), founder of The Open People Network, we dove into what it really takes to get on investors’ radars and keep their attention. Here are some of the key takeaways: ✔️De-Risking Your Startup “Risk comes from not knowing what you’re doing” - for founders this means being your own first investor — put some of your own money on the line and make sure you’re investing in a solid foundation. Jeffrey emphasized the importance of building advisory boards with experienced industry leaders and setting up a diligent financial and legal structure. Showing that you’ve put effort into de-risking your business, from thorough due diligence folders to proof of concept, gives investors confidence that you’re prepared for the challenges ahead. ✔️ Building Meaningful Relationships Networking is key. It’s not just about collecting business cards but creating genuine connections with founders, investors, and industry leaders. Jeffrey encouraged us to always have a specific “ask” at each meeting and look for ways to give back — whether by sharing insights or connecting people. Consistent follow-ups keep you top-of-mind and show that you’re committed. Building these connections isn’t about a quick win; it’s a long game that grows through trust and reciprocity. ✔️Mastering the Art of Networking Jeffrey reminded us: be strategic about where you pitch and which events you attend. Know who the key players and rising stars are in your space, and work on making your mark. It often takes up to 13 touchpoints to close a deal with investors, so persistence is essential. Stand out by thinking outside the box and positioning yourself as a thought leader, whether through speaking engagements, sharing insights, or publishing content on trends. As investors look deeper into your space, they’ll find you positioned as someone who knows their industry inside and out. As we dive into #WebSummit2024 and beyond, these lessons serve as a blueprint for engaging investors authentically and effectively. Every connection counts, every follow-up matters, and every impression is an opportunity to show that you’re ready for the next level 😎 #fintech

Wow - it’s almost here! Alokta is thrilled to be joining the #WebSummit startup program this November! We can’t wait to connect with visionary thinkers, industry leaders, and fellow innovators. If you’re attending, swing by our stand at A308 — we’d love to meet you & share our journey. See you on the event floor! #fintech #startups

What pitfalls can undermine your pitch, even with a perfect structure? 😈 During #LuVentureDays, Quentin Dupraz from Ilavska Vuillermoz Capital shared a few red flags that can instantly turn off potential investors. Part 3 - final! 🚩Overloaded slides Avoid overloading your slides with too much information. A cluttered deck can confuse your message and make it harder for VCs to grasp the key points. Less is often more when it comes to communicating your vision. 🚩Dissing competitors & jargon overload Steer clear of excessive jargon. While you may be deeply immersed in your industry’s technical language, remember that not everyone in the room may be. Keep your message accessible and relatable to ensure your pitch resonates with a broader audience. 🚩Inconsistencies & missing storytelling Inconsistent messaging is another common issue. If your slides don’t align with what you’re saying or if your story shifts midway through, you risk losing credibility. Your narrative should flow seamlessly from one point to the next. 🚩No market validation and vague financial projections A lack of market validation can be a deal-breaker. Investors want to see evidence that there’s demand for your product or service — without that, your idea might seem too risky or unproven. 🚩Excessive financials, unclear differentiation and overpromising Be mindful of overpromising or failing to differentiate your product. If your claims feel exaggerated or your solution doesn’t stand out in the market, VCs will question your ability to deliver. 🚩Defensive attitude during Q&A It can signal to investors that you’re not open to feedback or might be insecure about your business model. Instead, handling questions with openness and a collaborative mindset shows confidence and a willingness to learn, which can strengthen their trust in you. Startup Luxembourg, LPEA - Luxembourg Private Equity & Venture Capital Association, LuXembourg - Let's Make It Happen The LHoFT - Luxembourg House of Financial Technology PULSE

Pitching to VCs? Here’s your ultimate guide, straight from Quentin Dupraz at Ilavska Vuillermoz Capital, shared during the #LuVentureDays. Part 2 💡 Quentin highlighted key elements every startup must include in their pitch deck to capture a VC’s attention. Here are the must-have slides: 1️⃣ Introduction: keep it simple — what does your company do? 2️⃣ Problem: why does your company exist? Clearly define the problem you’re solving in a way that’s relatable. 3️⃣ Why Now? Timing is everything. Show why your solution is crucial at this moment. 4️⃣ Solution & Product: make it crystal clear how your product or service is the best solution for the problem you’ve identified. 5️⃣ Market & Traction: start with a niche market and expand from there. Back your claims with real results — think metrics like 800 paying users, 40% growth per month, $150k annual revenue run rate. 6️⃣ Business Model: show how you plan to generate revenue and who your customers are. 7️⃣ Go-to-Market Strategy: what’s your growth strategy? Highlight your distribution channels and partnerships. 8️⃣ Team: prove that your team is the right one to bring this vision to life. Complementary skills and resilience are critical. 9️⃣ Fundraising: be clear — how much are you raising and for what? Break it down by product development, marketing, and key milestones. Startup Luxembourg, LPEA - Luxembourg Private Equity & Venture Capital Association, LuXembourg - Let's Make It Happen, The LHoFT - Luxembourg House of Financial Technology, Luxinnovation GIE, University of Luxembourg Incubator and Entrepreneurship Programme, Luxembourg-City Incubator, PULSE, LBAN - Luxembourg Business Angel Network, Paul Wurth InCub, Le Village by CA, Technoport SA, GP Bullhound, Tomorrow Street, Expon Capital, Dealflow.eu, gener8tor, House of Startups Luxembourg, Cluster for Logistics Luxembourg - C4L

During #LUVentureDays we had the chance to attend an insightful masterclass led by Quentin Dupraz, Principal at Ilavska Vuillermoz Capital. The topic? “Perfect Pitch: Myth or Reality?” We’ll be sharing key insights from this session in two parts. Here we go with part one! 🔑 What really matters to VCs? In a world where 4% of VC deals generate 64% of all returns, venture capitalists are highly selective. They invest only in startups with enormous potential, and the competition is fierce — firms like Andreessen Horowitz review around 4,000 startups annually, but only back about 20! 🔥One major takeaway? Keep it simple! Don’t overwhelm investors with excessive details or financial projections. Focus on telling a compelling story that sparks curiosity and keeps your message clear. ✔️Pitching isn’t just about the product — it’s about the vision. Investors want to know how you’ll grow and differentiate yourself in a crowded market. So, focus on a narrow niche, show tangible results, and demonstrate flexibility and resilience within your team. ✔️Be clear on what you want to achieve and how you’ll use the funds to get there. The pitch should be simple but powerful — enough information to convince without overloading. Overall, this session reinforced that the “perfect pitch” is less about perfection and more about clarity, precision, and showing your startup’s potential in a way that makes investors excited to learn more. Startup Luxembourg, LPEA - Luxembourg Private Equity & Venture Capital Association, LuXembourg - Let's Make It Happen, The LHoFT - Luxembourg House of Financial Technology, Luxinnovation GIE, University of Luxembourg Incubator and Entrepreneurship Programme, Luxembourg-City Incubator, PULSE, LBAN - Luxembourg Business Angel Network, Paul Wurth InCub, Le Village by CA, Technoport SA, GP Bullhound, Tomorrow Street, Expon Capital, Dealflow.eu, gener8tor, House of Startups Luxembourg, Cluster for Logistics Luxembourg - C4L

What unites Alokta and the #Olympic Games? 😉 The Olympics are a global symbol of unity, excellence, and the relentless pursuit of greatness - and these are values that Alokta shares wholeheartedly. Just as athletes strive for gold, we aim for excellence in financial inclusion and empowerment. Even in the midst of summer, we’re actively planning and preparing for our autumn activities and new business ventures. New markets, new goals! Games are over, but wishing you the same Olympic spirit in your pursuits - may you have the patience, power, and dedication to achieve your goals - seems like this message is especially important for startups) #Fintech #AI #OlympicSpirit #EmergingMarkets #Innovation #CreditScoring #Empowerment