An Honest Reflection on My Third Time at Web Summit

Web Summit has always been a special event for me. Aplace where I get to meet inspiring founders, connect with passionate startups, and soak up a vibrant atmosphere of innovation. Naturally, I’m always excited to attend. But this time, I want to take a step back and share a more honest review of my experience, beyond the typical “super excited” post.
This year marked my third Web Summit attendance, and while it remained a valuable and enjoyable event overall, I couldn’t help but notice some changes compared to previous years. I met wonderful people as always, discovered potential clients, and gained meaningful insights. The energy was vibrant, filled with individuals chasing their dreams or just about to. Those connections and opportunities are what make Web Summit so worthwhile.
However, looking back over the last three years, I feel like the event’s quality has slipped slightly. I’m not entirely sure why, perhaps the vibe of the opening night felt different, maybe the presence of big tech companies was less prominent, or some event decisions impacted the overall feel. Whatever the reason, it simply didn’t resonate with me quite the same way it used to.
That being said, the true heart of Web Summit is its people. The founders, startups, partners, and attendees contribute an unbeatable energy that keeps the event alive and valuable. Because of that human connection, I still believe the investment in time, effort, and cost makes it worthwhile.
I’m already looking forward to next year’s event, hopeful for what it will bring. But I am curious , what was your take on this year’s Web Summit? Did it feel different to you too?