Morgan Stanley Inclusive Ventures Lab holds global demo day

Learn more about Morgan Stanley's largest global Demo Day, where 23 technology-based startups from North America and EMEA will present to investors and business partners

New York, February 07, 2024 - Morgan Stanley, a leading financial services firm, is hosting its largest-ever global Demo Day today. A total of 23 technology-based startups from North America and the EMEA region will present to over 300 investors, potential business partners and clients.

Promoting technology start-ups through the Inclusive Ventures Lab

Over the past five months, Morgan Stanley's Inclusive Ventures Lab has supported its ninth cohort of startups that are in the seed to Series A funding round stage. Each of the 23 companies received an investment of 250,000 US dollars (in EMEA: 250,000 pounds), plus mentoring and resources to help grow the business.

Selma Bueno, Global Head of the Morgan Stanley Inclusive Ventures Group, emphasizes the importance of this platform in a challenging funding environment for startups. The Demo Day illustrates the Lab's commitment to creating a fairer investment landscape globally.

Diversity of industries and focus on AI and sustainability

The participating startups represent a variety of industries, including healthcare, customer service, supply chain, recruitment and cybersecurity. What they have in common is a focus on artificial intelligence and sustainable solutions.

Companies in the current cohort include Adauris (Canada), Automated Architecture (UK), Bidrento (Estonia), ByFusion (USA), Cult Mia (UK), DotLab (USA), eBanqo (Nigeria), Encounter AI (USA), FLUIX (USA), GigBridge (UK), Health in Her HUE (USA), Inicio AI (UK), MEDIjobs (USA), Nopalera (USA), OKO (Israel), Oppos (Canada), Partsimony (USA), Ridelink (Uganda), serviceMob (USA), Stak Mobility (USA), Tall Poppy (USA), Twipes (USA) and Unfabled (UK).

It is regrettable that no German start-ups made it to New York; however, there is still hope that this could change with the next cohorts.

Successes of the Inclusive Ventures Lab and outlook for the future

Since its inception in 2017, the Lab has supported 92 companies with a total valuation of 923 million US dollars. These companies were able to raise $217 million in funding after participating.

Applications for the next Lab cohort will be accepted from February 7 to March 15, 2024. The tenth cohort will include up to 25 companies and will focus on startups led by previously overlooked founders that offer sustainable products or services. Morgan Stanley is planning pitch competitions in selected cities in North America and EMEA to identify potential participants. The next cohort is expected to start in September.