Following their participation at GITEX 2022 in the context of the EIC Overseas Trade Fairs (OTF) Programme 2.0, Omniflow marked significant business growth and established partnerships with industry leaders in the Gulf region. The Chief Growth Officer of Omniflow, Paulo Guedes, describes the positive experience stemming from OTF Programme 2.0 and shares insightful tips for a successful presence in high-level business events.
What is the business impact created following your participation in the trade fair? Is there any milestone achievement to announce?
PG: The event had a very positive impact on our business in the Gulf region. Since then, we closed 3 new businesses in 2 different countries of the region, namely Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. This business volume represented a growth of 300% compared to the previous 2 years and we still have some more opportunities in pipeline that we expect to execute before the end of the year or beginning of 2024.
To what extent OTF 2.0 helped you in achieving your organisation goals and business growth?
PG: The exhibition is the most influential one in the region and one of the most well known in the world. Being able to participate under the EIC umbrella adds a lot to the trust and confidence of the exhibitors it is also a big help in terms of costs and logistics.
From your experience with OTF 2.0, what business aspects do you think exhibitors should consider when preparing for tradeshows, both locally and internationally?
PG: The region is under a big transformation and although it might have some dichotomies in terms of development, both local companies and government are eager to see what’s new and are implementing new technologies at a very fast pace. That said, it is important to have novelties, but, at the same time, show a certain level of maturity. Contracts are complex, so if you can find local partners to help you push for the business that is also a big advantage.
What are your ambitions and future expectations for the company after OTF 2.0?
PG: We believe that the compromise with the net zero goals is an amazing opportunity for our sustainable smart city solutions, so we continue our mission to help cities reduce their CO2 footprint, while expanding digitalisation, this combination will surely accelerate the path to their sustainability.
We have recently finished the installation of the projects in the region, and we hope to materialise those into an exponential growth by leveraging on the positive impact they’re having.
Finally, could you offer any additional tips to prospective applicants?
PG: Carefully choose the events that are aligned with your market/strategy and use all the tools that the OTF Programme offers, as these can lead to very promising opportunities.
Use your time before the event to promote your participation and arrange local meetings, especially if you already have contacts in the region, in-person events really help accelerate business and promote trust between partners and customers.
After the events, take time to select the valid contacts and transform them into solid leads.
About Omniflow
Omniflow mission is to transform the existing 500 million streetlights into a sustainable smart city infrastructure capable of generating revenues. Omniflow solutions can save, both private and public sector customers, more than 90 energy cost, and using the existing poles and infrastructures. The company’s devices are an asset, that can be used as a neutral host, providing different services to different entities, and generating recurring revenues.
About GITEX
GITEX constitutes the most famous exhibition in the Gulf region, bringing together thought leaders and innovators to discuss, debate and challenge current sector trends, showcase revolutionary products and identify future opportunities.
With 8 shows under one roof, conference programmes with 1 400+ expert speakers, 6 000+ exhibitors and more than 100 000 attendees from 170+ countries, GITEX is the most influential meeting place for the technology industry, providing a strong business platform for tech giants, creative start-ups and enterprises.
About the EIC International Trade Fairs and USA Soft Landing Programme 3.0
The EIC International Trade Fairs and USA Soft Landing Programme 3.0 (previously Overseas Trade Fairs Programme 2.0) supports EIC Awardees to promote their commercialisation strategy in foreign markets and leverage business opportunities at the 12 most popular trade fairs, strengthening the EU innovation brand around the world. Selected EIC-funded SMEs, start-ups and scale-ups from EU Member States and associated countries have access to the Programme.
Check the EIC International Trade Fairs and USA Soft Landing Programme 3.0 or additional information. For stories, open calls and events, you may also visit the EIC Community Platform.
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DISCLAIMER: This information is provided in the interest of knowledge sharing and should not be interpreted as the official view of the European Commission, or any other organisation.