Failing forward like a pro

Forget the polished pitch. This HAPPYning is where we talk about what actually happened. Together with Fail Forward, we’re creating a space for emerging startups to share the mistakes that hurt and helped. Expect stories you won’t hear on stage, an open mic moment, and a reminder that failing is part of building. Because failing forward is a skill. And we’re all still learning.

Scaling pre-seed to seed and beyond

In this live session, three experienced founders reflect on what scaling really means - from pre-seed building to growing well beyond Series A. Guided by two sharp moderators from Founderment and Seed Capital.

You’ll meet a founder at the pre-seed stage, one at seed, and one who’s scaled well beyond. This isn’t a panel. It’s an open dialogue - and the audience is part of the conversation.

Public and Private Capital for Europe’s Next Giants

What will it take for Europe to catch up with the U.S. in attracting and mobilizing capital for startups? This session explores how stronger collaboration between public and private funding can unlock growth—and clears up common myths about accessing public funding.

Unicorn Academy Lands at SMIL (continued)

In collaboration with Danish Tech Startups, Unicorn Academy is making a special stop at SMIL. This invite-only session brings together top founders and operators, all on a mission to build a better tomorrow for startups and scale-ups in Denmark.

Selling to Corporates - It’s Just People (With Bigger Logos)

Selling to corporates can sound big and scary – but it doesn’t have to be. This session flips the pitch: corporates share real challenges, and startups respond. It’s about direct conversations, smart ideas, and building deals face-to-face – not inbox-to-inbox.

Hear needs from:
‍• COWI – How might we improve infrastructure asset management to extend lifetime using new technologies?
• VELUX – Innovative solutions to design or provide healthy, energy efficient and sustainable living spaces.
• Microsoft – Microsoft seeks ambitious startups developing cutting-edge AI solutions with global potential – especially those targeting enterprise customers.
• Beam / BEUMER Group – How can we turn textile waste into valuable feedstock – despite a fragmented supply chain?
• Region Midtjylland (TechLab & Partnerships) – AI assistants in healthcare – how do we stay compliant and keep up?
• Teknologisk Institut – (To be announced)
‍• AAK – Sustainable ingredients for the food industry and supply chain resilience.

Pitch Deck Teardown – What Investors ACTUALLY Think

Forget theory. Forget pitch theatre. This is a candid, slide-by-slide breakdown of a real Series A pitch deck - the one that helped close a serious round. On stage, a founder walks us through their actual fundraising deck. Kompas VC pauses, reacts, and gives honest, in-the-moment feedback: what worked, what raised red flags, and what founders should stop doing right now. No fluff. No filters. Just a rare chance to see how investors actually think.

Founding Female Futures Network

Entrepreneurship shapes the future - but too often, women’s voices aren’t in the room when it happens. Welcome to Founding Female Futures Network – the official kickoff for Aarhus’ brand new Female Founder Network, powered by Dansk Erhverv and Aarhus Kommune.This is not a seminar. It’s not a lecture. It’s a living, breathing network in the making – and you’re building it with us. Expect inspiration, connection, and room to dream bigger, louder, and together

afterpartyyyyy

After all that yapping, it’s time to meet under the bridge, drink something cold, and see where the night takes us.