WHO WE ARE
ISOLATION IS THE ENEMY OF INNOVATION
Every Innovation Ecosystem–no matter the size–needs an activator that creates movement. Someone creating connections as well as stimulates cross-functional collaborations. Someone that addresses the social part of innovation. Through our years of first-hand experience as an Innovation Ecosystem Activator, we have perfected our method to effectively maximise the impact of any ecosystem as a whole.
Venture Café believes that Isolation is the enemy of innovation and our mission is clear: Connect innovators to make things happen. We are a neutral and trusted centre of gravity that connects the entire ecosystem and is available to everyone. Through our programmes we routinely activate ecosystems, creating continuous exchange and conversation.
HOW WE DO IT
WE ARE OBSESSED WITH CONNECTING PEOPLE!
Building effective and impactful innovation ecosystems is an ongoing process that takes a lot of love and care. Venture Café brings together the entire innovation ecosystem weekly at our flagship programme the Thursday Gathering. When connecting people, it’s so much more than just networking. It’s about fostering the right culture for support and cross-functional collaborations. Something requiring unique insights to achieve.
In our neutral and central position we form an understanding of the whole ecosystem that we constantly apply to improve the experience we provide. Knowing our community and the goals of the ecosystem allows us to naturally create the most impactful connections.
Our locations gather over 100,000 visionaries and lifelong learners each year to build strong, inclusive, equitable innovation ecosystems in cities throughout the world. We provide the network, the topical programming, the storytelling opportunities, the learning environments and the supporting resources, to create something great locally and that has impact globally.
Connect
Connect with other innovators & attend our virtual and in-person events.
Learn
Learn from like-minded, inspiring people as well as industry experts in their fields.
Share
Help strengthen Manchester’s innovation community by sharing your knowledge and story.
Global network
Venture Café Manchester is part of the growing Venture Café global network – and that means you are, too!
Industry Agnostic
Innovation happens at the intersections of industries and disciplines, that’s why every week we convene the entire ecosystem.
Innovation is for Everyone
Venture Café Manchester is dedicated to making innovation ecosystems more equitable and creating pathways for everyone to take part in innovation.
Venture Café ♥ CIC
Venture Café began as a simple idea within the Cambridge Innovation Center (CIC) in Massachusetts. A longtime global leader in building innovation campuses and shared workspaces, CIC began evolving from its concept of physical spaces to one of greater meaningful community in 2009. This new iteration grew into a global movement known for its entrepreneurial resources and inclusivity. Today, Venture Café Global Institute – now its own enterprise – expands to new cities on its own as well as alongside other CIC ventures.
Venture Café is part of a global network – and that means you are, too!
Venture Café Manchester is part of the growing Venture Café global network – and that means you are, too! Through our collaborations in cities from Boston to Berlin to Tokyo, we’ll connect you with change-makers and resources to help you expand innovation both locally and globally. Together, let’s ignite creativity and catalyse action to solve humankind’s challenges while meaningfully supporting entrepreneurs and innovators, many of whom have traditionally been underserved. Check out the benefits of worldwide collaboration!