I’ve always had a knack for sneaking my way into places, not in the literal sense of course, but through the serendipity of connections. This time it was thanks to a founder friend who introduced me to Dubai Internet City, and before I knew it, I was invited to STEP Dubai.
Walking into the buzzing energy of the conference, I quickly realized something. I may have flown halfway around the world, but I could just as easily have been at Startupfest in Montreal.
The similarities were striking. The characters, the talking points, the types of startups, even the way founders pitched — it all felt familiar. What truly stood out was the atmosphere. The positivity, the hospitality, and the follow-up conversations were unmatched. It wasn’t just a conference, it felt like a community that welcomed me with open arms.
One session that really stayed with me was a panel on “Investing in the Levant.” It was a candid and honest conversation about the challenges of building up a smaller, often underrepresented region with venture capital. The panelists didn’t hold back, from addressing lingering biases to confronting geopolitical concerns that shape investor sentiment.
But what stood out most was their resolve. Rather than dwelling on the limitations, these VCs spoke about opportunity. They were determined to be first movers, ready to invest in innovation long before it hits the mainstream. That kind of belief is powerful and contagious.
STEP Dubai left me energized and inspired, not only by the founders I met but by the investors and ecosystem builders leading the way. It reaffirmed something I’ve always believed. Innovation knows no borders.
Whether you’re in Dubai, Montreal, or somewhere in between, when you find your tech crew, you know you’re exactly where you belong.
From Dubai, where every handshake holds potential and the startup scene shines just as bright as the skyline.
- Danielle
