XLDay 2026
XLDay 2026 is HighTechXL’s Demo Day, where our entire deep-tech community comes together: founders, investors, industry leaders, and partners, all gathering at the High Tech Campus Conference Center.
The event takes place on May 8th, from 12:30 to 18:00.
During the event, you’ll hear the latest updates from HighTechXL and meet the newest ventures in our program as they take the stage for the first time, sharing the technologies they are building and the impact they aim to create.
The offer doesn’t stop here. In the afternoon, you can choose from three breakout sessions on defence, spin-off factories, and an exciting Investor’s Arena. Breakout sessions must be selected on the day of the event on a first-come, first-served basis. Spots are limited, so we encourage you to review the topics carefully in advance and arrive early to secure your preferred session.
Agenda – XLDay 2026
12:30 – 13:00 | Walk-in
Get your badge, grab a coffee or tea, and settle in before the program begins.
13:00 – 14:30 | Plenary Session
• Welcome from HighTechXL, including an exclusive first announcement, live on stage
• Key Q&A discussion with Michiel Scheffer, President of the Board, European Innovation Council, on the European Strategy for Startups and Scaleups, including the recently announced EU Scale-up Fund and broader initiatives to strengthen innovation across Europe
• A series of fast-paced venture pitches from the Netherlands and Singapore
14:30 – 15:00 | Break
15:00 – 16:30 | Parallel Breakout Sessions (choose one, first come, first served)
Spin-Off Factory for the Netherlands and Europe
An interactive working session exploring how to create ideal conditions for effective spin-off factories. Together with regional development companies, universities, and ministries, participants will contribute to creating an action agenda to strengthen technology spin-outs in the Netherlands and across Europe.
Joining Forces for Security & Defence
A commitment-driven session focused on collaboration in security and defence innovation. With contributions from the Ministry of Defence, scaleups, deep-tech industry, and public stakeholders, the session aims to identify concrete opportunities, funding needs, and partnerships to accelerate impact and build a stronger defence ecosystem.
Investor’s Arena
Selected ventures will be put under pressure by pitching on stage in front of investors in a dynamic setting.
16:30 – 18:00 | Drinks & Networking
Wrap up the day with informal networking.
Register now to secure your spot and stay in the loop as we reveal more.
See you on May 8th at XL Day 2026.
