Digital DNA launches upStart 2020 with unique video pitch platform

by Startacus Admin
Digital DNA upSTART, the startup pitch event that takes place annually at Digital DNA, is moving to its own standalone virtual event on 16th December. As well as video pitches from a number of high potential startups, the event will also host a range of roundtables, panel discussions and talks for anyone working in the startup community.
Now in its 5th year, Digital DNA upSTART was created to identify, showcase and reward tech startups that have the potential to become high-impact businesses and previous winners have come from Dubai, London, Dublin and Belfast.
With startups no longer able to meet investors face to face or attend startup pitch events, organisers were keen to create something that goes beyond a standard pitch deck or even a “zoom” meeting and would enable founders to get in front of potential investors much easier in the current environment.
The team at Digital DNA, who organise the annual upSTART event, will be utilising an innovative new platform that will allow founders to create an interactive “PitchTape” - a dynamic online video pitch profile making it easier for startups to stand out from the crowd and get discovered by the right investors.
Participating upSTART founders and their teams will have the opportunity to create a 5 min PitchTape for investors and the judges, using the upStart platforms’ step-by-step guide that walks founders and their teams through the video recording process, which has been tailored for raising capital from angel and VC investors.
This year’s virtual event is open to tech startups less than three years old, that have raised less than £1m. Startups have until 14th December to submit their 'pitchtape' to the private Digital DNA upSTART portal for judges and investors to review. Up to 25 startups will then be selected to showcase at the event on 16th December.
Investors will also be given access to a private online portal, for them to select and watch the tech startups that match their particular criteria.
Simon Bailie, CEO at Digital DNA explained his vision for the 2020 format:
“Over the past 5 years upStart has grown in popularity and we were keen to ensure we continued to promote entrepreneurship as part of the wider Digital DNA programme. This year is like no other and one of the biggest challenges facing startups is the ability to get face to face with potential investors.
Our new platform will allow startups to hone their video pitch skills, create a personalised PitchTape that they can share with investors and ultimately get in front of a wider pool of investment opportunities.”
This year’s event is supported by Raise Ventures, Tughans and Belfast City Council and participating startups will also be able to attend various talks, workshops and masterclasses at Digital DNA 2020 which is taking place on 10th & 11th November.
Subscribe to our newsletter
If you would like to receive our startup themed newsletter, full of the latest startup opportunities, events, news, stories, tips and advice, then sign up here.
Over 100 organisations come together via The Micro Business Alliance to help provide a voice for the UK's startups, micro businesses and small businesses.

The lowdown on London-based hearing wellness startup Mumbli and its mission to help businesses provide inclusive spaces for all hearing abilities and preferences.

Tech Nation calls for tangible support to secure capital, talent, growth and exits needed to accelerate the growth of UK tech in decade ahead.

Glasgow-based This is Milk seeks investment for Neve Learning, its cloud-based Ed-Tech platform that has inclusivity and accessibility at its core.

With the UK facing a clear digital skills gap, Amy Caton, Digital Talent and Impact Senior Manager at BT Group shares some insights on what businesses should do to close that divide.

The lowdown on Berlin-based Beazy and its innovative solution that helps teams to plan, produce and deliver creative content and helps businesses to connect with talented content creators.

The lowdown on Fluffy, the app offering dog training, 24/7 vet messaging and insurance to give pet owners peace of mind and support them with their pet care responsibilities.

Huckletree's new Web3 HQ aims to put London’s West End at the forefront of Britain’s tech superpower ambitions.

Leading sports marketing platform, OpenSponsorship announces move into music sector, the first new vertical industry for the trans-Atlantic martech business.

Kingussie High School scoops first place for Junior and Senior categories at this year’s Growing Future Assets Competition.
Published on: 5th November 2020
If you would like to enable commenting via your Startacus account, please enable Disqus functionality in your Account Settings.







- Micro Business Alliance launches to represent 75% of the UK’s businesses 28th Mar 2023 Over 100 organisations come together via The Micro Business Alliance to help provide a voice for the UK's startups, micro businesses and small businesses.
- Tech Nation report reveals UK Tech could quadruple in value by 2032 with right conditions 23rd Mar 2023 Tech Nation calls for tangible support to secure capital, talent, growth and exits needed to accelerate the growth of UK tech in decade ahead.
- Neurodiverse learning and training platform Neve shares major six-figure investment opportunity 22nd Mar 2023 Glasgow-based This is Milk seeks investment for Neve Learning, its cloud-based Ed-Tech platform that has inclusivity and accessibility at its core.
- Huckletree opens new London hub for tech companies pioneering Web3 solutions 16th Mar 2023 Huckletree's new Web3 HQ aims to put London’s West End at the forefront of Britain’s tech superpower ambitions.