Sailing into entrepreneurship: The Venturelab sixth annual Sailing Trophy towards innovation

03.03.2025 09:30, Rita Longobardi

Have you ever wondered how entrepreneurship and the open sea might share the same sense of adventure and competition? On Sunday, March 2nd, the Venturelab Sailing Trophy set sail in the majestic waters of Barcelona, marking the beginning of the Venture Leaders Mobile 2025 roadshow. Hosted at the Real Club Nautico, one of the oldest yacht clubs in Spain, this annual event continues to embody the essence of innovation, Swiss precision, and global ambition.

Founded in 1876, the Real Club Náutico, with its historic significance, served as the perfect backdrop for a memorable day of networking, pitching, and sailing competition. 

The regatta, featuring three competing crews comprising the 10 Swiss National Startup Team members, investors, and Venturelab partners joined on board the VISCHER, HM Hospitals (Hydra), and Urbania boats. In strong winds and waves, the teams illustrated the spirit of entrepreneurship by taking on the challenge and adapting to the conditions.



But the day didn't end with the race. The atmosphere remained lively as participants, including the General Swiss Consul in Barcelona, Othmar Hardegger, gathered for lunch at the Real Club Náutico, followed by a Pitchfest where the Venture Leaders presented their ventures and shared their vision. The event highlighted the great potential of the Venture Leaders Mobile Team, soon to introduce themselves at the Mobile World Congress and 4YFN 2025—two of the world's most influential events for the connectivity industry.



The Venturelab Sailing Trophy, made possible by Rolf Auf der Maur, partner at VISCHER, was more than just a sailing competition; it reflected the mindset needed to build a successful startup. As the sails caught the wind and competitors raced to the end, it became clear that entrepreneurship mirrors sailing: Both require precision, adaptability, and a steady hand to chart a clear course through changing conditions.

Check www.venturelab.swiss/trophy for more information and updates on the Venture Leaders Mobile 2025 and follow them in Barcelona at MWC and 4YFN with #VleadersMobile on social media.

 

Sailing into entrepreneurship: The sixth annual Venturelab Sailing Trophy towards innovation! https://t.co/4BLyTFPZTm

Yesterday, March 2nd, the Venturelab Sailing Trophy set sail in the waters of Barcelona, marking the beginning of the Venture Leaders Mobile 2025 roadshow.… pic.twitter.com/mPge70vsth

— Venturelab (@venturelab_ch) March 3, 2025