STEP CHANGE 2023
Step Change 2023 gathers bold explorers in glass innovation and offers startup trailblazers the opportunity to share their adventures, their insight and their aspirations and to enjoy the company of their peers.
Step Change was introduced at Glass Performance Days (GPD) in 2017 as a way to develop and promote new innovations for the glass industry value chain. Its purpose is to connect startup entrepreneurs with industry professionals from all over the world to network and drive the industry to higher peaks. It helps move the glass industry forward in the long run and boost its performance.
The success of Step Change has made it one of the rock-solid elements of GPD, an independent forum dedicated to the development of the glass industry through an exchange of ideas, concepts and innovations.
Are you an Explorer?
Step Change targets startups and early-stage innovation groups, university research projects and spinoffs or any other new solution program. During GPD 2023, Step Change participants will gather in the Base Camp. All explorers can showcase their ideas, products and services and connect with the decision-makers. In addition, the Step Change provides a unique opportunity to learn about glass industry and its value chain.
Base Camp offers unique opportunities and ways to grow in the far-reaching glass industry value chain – Bringing the right people in the right spot.
Sell your idea
Get feedback directly from your potential market
Learn from the best
GPD brings together the best minds in the glass industry
Build your network
Meet with those who can help you along the climb
Go global
The world is waiting for innovative solutions
Base Camp consists of two parts
Step Change’s Base Camp 2023 is the place to stage your ascent and acclimatize – preparing for the unpredictable, sharing knowledge and learning from the wisdom of the experienced.
During the event, on June 14– 16 in Tampere, Finland, you will be able to showcase your ideas in dedicated Step Change sessions and exhibition. You will meet the industry at your own promo stand to demo and discuss your innovation, products or services. And make valuable connections.
Prior to the event, you will have possibility to discuss with our Step Change mentors about your idea and get valuable insights. You will gain valuable insights before you go on to presenting your ideas in GPD 2023 to the industry at large.
FAQ
What kind of startups are you looking for? Who can apply?
Step Change is for many – along with startups. We’re looking for university spinoffs, research projects or even more established companies.
Depending on what stage your company is in, you may wish to also consider attending the event as a normal speaker, participant or exhibitor.
Will we find funding?
We are focused on showcasing your ideas, products and services to help you build your business and commercialize your ideas.
My startup is not in glass – should I join?
Yes! In fact, some of our most interesting innovations were sparked within industries outside the glass sector. You may have a technology or application that no one in the glass industry has ever considered before. And that is the kind of disruptive thinking we’re looking for.
What is the deadline for applying?
You can indicate your interest at any time. Step Change will accept companies for Base Camp 2023 on a first-come, first-served basis. Registration closes as soon as available slots are filled, so sign up now!
How much does it cost to participate?
Participation fees have been deeply discounted thanks to our Step Change sponsors. It costs 850 eur/person to participate in the Step Change Base Camp 2023. This includes the conference ticket to GPD Finland 2023 and a promotional table in the Step Change area. The benefits you gain will far outweigh the amount of your participation fee in Step Change.
Who is behind Step Change?
Glaston Corporation was the initial founder of Step Change as a startup program for the glass industry that occurred biannually in conjunction with GPD in Tampere, Finland. Today, there is a wide network of glass industry partners involved.
