24-25 September CESTConvendum & Berns Berzelii Park, Stockholm

Invitation

Welcome to the 11th Founders World Summit, taking place on September 24–25, 2025 in Stockholm.

This unique summit brings together global large-scale founders to master the balance of ownership, profitability, growth, and positive societal impact.

What sets the summit apart is our focus on founder-to-founder collaboration, with 70% of the time dedicated to hands-on workshops tackling founders’ challenges. By sharing experiences and insights, founders accelerate problem-solving and drive growth.

Customize your experience and register now to secure your spot. We look forward to seeing you there!

Warm welcome, 

Founders Alliance

PROGRAM

Welcome to the 11th Founders World Summit, taking place on September 24–25, 2025, in Stockholm. Get ready for two transformative days of knowledge sharing, deep-dive workshops, and powerful peer connections — all designed to help you scale your business and make a positive impact. 

Please select the workshops you'd like to join — your preferences help us tailor the experience to create maximum value and insight for you.We look forward to welcoming you to Stockholm for two unforgettable days of collaboration, growth, and celebration!

DAY ONE - SEPTEMBER 24 

September 24 is dedicated to Founders Group Sessions at Convendum, Kungsgatan 9, where you’ll meet in your Founders Groups for high-value, peer-to-peer exchange.

DAY TWO - SEPTEMBER 25

September 25 unfolds at Berns, Berzelii Park, featuring co-created workshops on topics such as: Mergers & Acquisitions – Two Paths to Growth, The Future of AI, A Conscious Leadership, Founders for the Planet, Female Founders Summit, Consumer Goods & E-Commerce, Globalisation, and Next Generation.

In the afternoon, you’ll choose between engaging in Business Unit Meets on the Berns Terrace or joining a Founders Boat Cruise through the Stockholm Archipelago — followed by the Founders Awards Gala in the evening.

IN THE EVENING - FOUNDERS AWARDS GALA

We conclude the summit with the Founders Awards Gala - an inspiring evening celebrating outstanding founders and their significant contributions to business and society. The gala includes the announcement of the Founder of the Year Honorary Awards winners, along with dinner, entertainment, and excellent networking opportunities.

TICKET PRICES (SEPTEMBER 25)

  • Full Day Pass: 3,500 SEK (excl. VAT)

  • Founders Awards Gala (Non-members): 2,300 SEK (excl. VAT)

  • Free for Founders Alliance Members – included in the membership

Program (CET/UTC +02:00)


09:00 AM

Registration, Networking Breakfast (optional)

Start your day with an optional networking breakfast. Upon arrival, conveniently check in and register at the venue. Group rooms are ready for those who want to start early.

We will be gathering at Convendum Kungsgatan 9. Access your personalized program through the Founders World Summit App to find your location. Breakfast is served from 08:30. 

Ensure you arrive no later than 09:15 to easily locate the room for the first Founders Group Session or Founders Growth Workshop.

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Convendum, Kungsgatan 9, Stockholm
09:30 AM

Morning: Session One

Morning Session One with your Founders Group.

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Convendum, Kungsgatan 9, Stockholm
11:20 AM

Walk to Olli Ristorante

After a short 5-10 minutes walk, we all will gather for lunch at Olli Ristorante

Address: Olli Ristorante, Jakobsbergsgatan 21, Stockholm

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Walk from Convendum to Ristorante Olli
11:30 AM

Lunch at Ristorante Olli

Lunch at Restaurant Olli for all participants at the Founders World Summit.

Address: Olli Ristorante, Jakobsbergsgatan 21, Stockholm

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Olli Ristorante, Jakobsbergsgatan 21, Stockholm
12:30 PM

Short Walk to the Next Session

After lunch, we’ll take a short walk to get some fresh air. It’s a 5–10 minute walk from Ristorante Olli to our next session at Convendum, Kungsgatan 9.

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Walk to Convendum, Kungsgatan 9, Stockholm
12:40 PM

Afternoon: Session Two

Session Two with your Founders Group.

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Convendum, Kungsgatan 9, Stockholm
03:00 PM

Networking Break with Coffee & Pastry


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Convendum, Kungsgatan 9, Stockholm
03:30 PM

Afternoon: Session Three

Session Three with your Founders Group.

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Convendum, Kungsgatan 9, Stockholm
05:30 PM

End of first day of 11th Founders World Summit


07:30 AM

Morning Run or Walk

We gather at the entrance of Berns Hotel in Berzelii Park for a refreshing start to the day. Whether you prefer a walk along Strandvägen by the water or a run through Djurgården, this is a great way to wake up, connect, and energize. We will take care of your bags, and you can shower at Berns Berzelii Park afterward.

🌳 About Strandvägen & Djurgården

Strandvägen and Djurgården are among Stockholm’s most beloved green spaces, offering a perfect blend of nature, history, and culture. 

Strandvägen, with its grand waterfront boulevard, leads to the lush landscapes of Djurgården, once a royal hunting ground and now a tranquil retreat in the heart of the city. With scenic waterfront paths, lush forests, and iconic landmarks, this is the ideal setting for a rejuvenating morning walk or run before diving into the day ahead.

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The Entrance, Berns, Berzelii Park 9, 111 47 Stockholm
09:00 AM

Registration & Check-In for the Founders World Summit

Welcome to the Founders World Summit! 

Upon arrival, please check in at the Registration Desk and log into the Summit App you received via text message.  Be sure to save it to your mobile home screen to access your personal program.

We will be there to guide you every step of the way - from sessions to networking experiences - so you can make the most of your day at the Founders World Summit.

Let the inspiration begin!

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Berns Hotel, Berzelii park 9, 111 47 Stockholm
09:30 AM

Mastering Mergers & Acquisitions: Two Paths to Growth

Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) are more than just business transactions - they are strategic moves that shape industries, drive innovation, and create long-term value. Whether you are looking to expand your company, enter new markets, or enhance capabilities, M&A can be a powerful tool. But how do you navigate the complexities of deal-making, valuation, and post-merger integration successfully?

In this session, we explore two distinct yet highly successful approaches to M&A through real-world case studies:

🔹 LIWLIG – A Nordic event agency that has scaled rapidly by fully integrating acquired companies into a unified powerhouse.

🔹 Qgroup – A consulting and tech company that focus on entrepreneurial autonomy within its acquired businesses, creating a decentralized yet thriving ecosystem.

Sofi Franzén, co-founder of LIWLIG, and Mikael Kretz, co-founder of Qgroup, will share their M&A experiences, strategies, and lessons learned. Whether you're considering a structured integration or a decentralized acquisition model, this workshop will provide practical insights to help you shape your own M&A strategy.

Program

09:45-10:00  Case Study 1: LIWLIG – Scaling Through Full Integration with Sofi Franzén

10:00-10:15  Case Study 2: Qgroup – Focus on Autonomy Within an Acquired Ecosystem with Mikael Kretz

10:15-11:15 Round Table Workshops - you will participate in a roundtable workshop to discuss your own M&A challenges, moderated by moderated by experienced founders with expertise in mergers and acquisitions.

11:15-11:45 Key Conclusions - a brief summary of key findings from each roundtable discussion.

Case Study 1: LIWLIG – Scaling Through Full Integration

Co-Founder: Sofi Franzén

LIWLIG, a leading Nordic event agency, has strategically expanded through mergers and acquisitions, creating a powerhouse in the industry. By integrating top event agencies across Sweden, Finland, Denmark and Norway, LIWLIG has successfully built a unified organization with shared values, a strong company culture, and a streamlined operational structure.

Key Learnings from LIWLIG’s M&A Approach:

  • Strategic Acquisition – Selecting companies that complement and enhance LIWLIG’s core expertise.
  • Cultural Integration – Ensuring smooth transitions by aligning company values and leadership styles.
  • Scalability & Efficiency – Leveraging M&A to expand service offerings and strengthen market presence.

LIWLIG’s journey highlights the power of full integration, where acquired companies become part of a larger, cohesive entity, enabling synergies, innovation, and sustainable growth.

Case Study 2: Qgroup – Focus on Autonomy Within an Acquired Ecosystem

Co-Founder: Mikael Kretz

Qgroup has taken a different approach to growth through acquisitions—focusing on entrepreneur-led companies and fostering autonomy rather than full integration. By acquiring independent tech and consulting firms while allowing them to maintain their unique identities, Qgroup has built a decentralized, high-performance ecosystem.

Key Learnings from Qgroup’s M&A Approach:

  • Selective Acquisition – Choosing companies that align with Qgroup’s entrepreneurial philosophy.
  • Decentralized Growth – Allowing acquired businesses to operate independently while benefiting from shared resources.
  • Long-Term Value Creation – Prioritizing innovation and leadership retention over complete structural integration.

Qgroup’s model demonstrates how acquisitions can drive success without losing the entrepreneurial DNA, enabling companies to scale while preserving agility and creativity.

After the case studies, you will participate in a roundtable workshop to discuss your own M&A challenges, moderated by experienced founders with expertise in mergers and acquisitions. The session will conclude with a brief summary of key findings from each roundtable discussion.

We start with a Coffee Mingle, please come in time. The workshop will start 09:45.

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Röda Rummet (Red Room) Berns, Berzelii park 9, Stockholm
The Creation of LIWLIG – A Nordic Powerhouse in Events
Focus on Autonomy Within an Acquired Ecosystem

Next-Level Leadership: Harnessing Nature and Nurture for Growth with Neo Moreton

Neo Moreton is a meditating, business-creating Brit devoted to helping leaders access the wisdom within. With a lifelong passion for meaningful human connection, Neo facilitates experiences that unlock deep insights and elevate both personal and professional life.

This immersive workshop is designed for founders ready to reimagine their work as a path for transformation - where every challenge becomes an opportunity, and every moment is a catalyst for conscious growth.

Join us for a dynamic, 2-hour workshop designed for founders ready to scale their businesses or establish a robust succession plan. This session focuses on harmonizing your innate qualities - your nature - with the learned behaviors developed over time -your nurture.

By becoming consciously aware of these leadership traits, you can navigate the path to next-level leadership with confidence and clarity. As you expand your business or prepare for transition, you face challenges that require visionary, creative, and collaborative approaches.

These challenges may highlight both visible and shadow elements of your personality. Understanding how to balance these traits is essential for fostering a sustainable business environment.

In this concise workshop, you will:


- Reflect on Leadership Origins: Gain insights into the inherent and learned traits that influence your leadership style, helping you leverage both nature and nurture.

- Awaken Conscious Leadership: Enhance awareness of your leadership behaviors, identifying supportive traits and addressing areas for growth.

- Strengthen Strategic Vision: Learn strategies for visionary and collaborative thinking that support business scaling and succession planning.

Prepare to engage with practical exercises and discussions that will equip you to make strategic decisions and strengthen your leadership. Elevate your capacity for impactful decisions that align with your business objectives. Unlock your next-level leadership potential in a condensed yet powerful session. Join us to lead your business confidently and effectively.

We start with a Coffee Mingle, please come in time. The workshop will start 09:45.

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Ljusgården (The Light Garden) Berns Hotel, Berzelii park 9, 111 47 Stockholm
Founder, Executive Coach and Author

The Future of AI Workshop with Elin Elkehag Funk

The Future of AI, an exclusive workshop led by visionary founder and innovation strategist Elin Elkehag Funk. Designed for founders, this session dives into how artificial intelligence is reshaping the business landscape  - and how you can harness it to drive business impact.

With experience as a tech founder, advisor to companies like Klarna and Axel Johnson, and CEO of Vinna Ventures, Elin brings a unique blend of strategic insight and hands-on knowledge. She’ll guide you through the opportunities, challenges, and practical steps of integrating AI into your business strategy.

What to Expect:

  • Where AI is heading: Key trends shaping the next 3–5 years
  • Applied innovation: How to move from AI ideas to implementation
  • Case studies: Lessons from companies embracing AI
  • Responsible AI: Ethics, inclusion, and sustainable growth
  • Interactive breakout sessions to apply insights to your own venture

Who is it for?

Forward-thinking founders, ready to embrace the AI-powered future and lead innovation with purpose.

We start with a Coffee Mingle, please come in time. The workshop will start 09:45.

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Spegelsalen(The Mirror room) Berns Berzelii park 9, 111 47 Stockholm
Founder Vinna Ventures

Founders Planet Workshop in Collaboration with We Don't Have Time

Speaker introductions on different aspects of growing 'Planet' companies for positive impact founders, each with a maximum of 8 minutes, will inspire roundtable discussions and the global stream of We Don't HaveTime. This summit is co-created and moderated by Ingmar Rentzhog, Founder We Don't Have Time & Co-Leader of Founders Planet Quest.

Introductory speeches for roundtable discussions (participants will select their preferred roundtable upon registration):

  • Leading the Energy Transition through Entrepreneurship by Joachim Karthäuser, Founder of Climeon and Zelk & Leader of Founders Planet Quest.
  • ESG for Founders by Malin Lindfors Speace, Founder of Ethos & Member of Founders Group 2.
  • Scaling Sustainability: How Wayout is Revolutionizing Global Water Access with Ulf Stenerhag, founder of Wayout.

We start with a Coffee Mingle, please come in time. The workshop will start 09:45.

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Kammarsalen (The Chamber Hall) & The Studio Berns Hotel, Berzelii park 9, 111 47 Stockholm
Founder Zelk & Climoen
Founder We Don't Have Time
Founder Wayout
11:45 AM

4th Female Founders Lunch Summit with Patricia Olby Kimondo & Niclas Carlsson

The Female Founders Summit kicks off at 12:00  -  make sure to arrive early to register and find your seat!

A special lunch seminar where founders and community leaders come together for hands-on exchange on your own challenges and to drive positive change for female founders.

Led by Patricia Olby Kimondo, Founder of People Productions, and Niclas Carlsson, Founder & CEO of Founders Alliance, this event focuses on tackling the real challenges women founders face - especially those leading small and medium-sized companies.

Through research-based discussions and practical insights, we aim to build a more inclusive and supportive entrepreneurial ecosystem.

By the power of collaboration, we unite experienced founders, industry experts, and advocates. These connections create a platform for sharing experiences, offering actionable insights, and developing strategies to overcome systemic barriers.

What to Expect:

  • Deep, hands-on exploration of your own challenges and opportunities
  • Inspiring keynotes and panel discussions with top founders and community leaders
  • Networking with stakeholders committed to supporting women in entrepreneurship

Read more here: The 4th Female Founders Summit

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Berns Hotel the Ballroom, Berzelii Park 9
Founder People Productions & Double Up ImpAct
Founder and CEO Founders Alliance

Or Walk to the Lunch at the Terrace

See Your Personal Program in the App for the Next Session
12:00 PM

Founders Lunch at the Berns Terrace

You're warmly invited to Founders Lunch for great conversations and networking with your peer founders at Berns Terrace at 12:00-12:45

Whether you're reconnecting or meeting new peer founders, this is a perfect moment to enjoy lunch and inspiring exchanges in a relaxed setting at the terrace.

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The Terrace, Berns Berzelii park 9, 111 47 Stockholm
12:45 PM

Walk to the Next Activity

Now it's time to head to the next activity. Please be on time, the next workshop starts at 1 PM sharp. Check your personal program in the Founders World Summit App for details.

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See Your Personal Program in the App for the Next Session
01:00 PM

Consumer Goods & E-commerce Workshop: Arranged by Founders Group 6 and Moderated by Tomas Sundh

Exclusively for Founders building Consumer Goods & E-commerce Companies

Join peer consumer goods and e-commerce founders for a focused workshop designed to tackle the most pressing challenges and emerging opportunities in the Consumer Goods sector.

This offers a unique opportunity to interactive exchange of insights with peers who truly understand the complexity of building and scaling in today’s consumer landscape - from supply chain pressure and shifting customer behavior to digital growth and sustainability demands. Moderated by Tomas Sundh.

Why Join?

  • Peer-to-peer problem solving with experienced consumer & e-com founders
  • Deep-dive discussions shaped by your business needs
  • Curated insights relevant to your stage, scale, and segment
  • Hands-on exchange to walk away with actionable takeaways
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Spegelsalen (The Mirror Room) Berns Hotel, Berzelii park 9, 111 47 Stockholm
Founder Ajat Group

Globalisation Workshop with Mebs Dossa & Jörgen Eriksson

As markets become increasingly interconnected, globalisation presents both vast opportunities and complex challenges for founders and companies seeking international growth.

In this thought-provoking workshop, Mebs Dossa and Jörgen Eriksson bring deep global expertise to help you navigate the strategic, legal, and operational dimensions of expanding across borders.

In this Workshop, you will:

  • Explore global expansion strategies for founders and scale-ups
  • Learn from case studies of cross-border success and failure
  • Understand the legal, cultural, and regulatory landscape of internationalisation
  • Gain practical advice on building sustainable global operations
  • Exchange experiences with other globally-minded founders

This workshop is ideal for founders preparing to scale internationally or optimize existing global operations. Gain actionable insights from those who have successfully done it — and are ready to help you do the same.

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Kammarsalen (The Chamber Hall) Berns Hotel, Berzelii park 9, 111 47 Stockholm
Partner McGuireWoods
Founder Stream Innovation Group

Bridging Generations with Thomas Blendow

Bridging Generations – Sharing Wisdom, Vision, and New Perspectives

Exclusively for Founders and their Next Generation

Purpose

This workshop is designed to strengthen intergenerational dialogue and future-oriented thinking among founders and the emerging generation of entrepreneurs and leaders. Whether you're bringing a successor from your company or joining solo, the session offers a valuable opportunity to reflect, share, and co-create ideas with fellow founders – across generations.

Who It’s For

  • Founders bringing the next generation from their companies (family members, emerging leaders, or potential successors)
  • Founders without a next-gen participant are equally welcome – you’ll contribute valuable perspectives to others and gain insights into how fellow founders are preparing for the future
  • All participants share a commitment to long-term thinking, impact, and legacy

Key Objectives

  • Exchange knowledge and values across generations
  • Explore what it means to lead and grow in today’s business landscape
  • Support younger participants in discovering their leadership style and entrepreneurial voice
  • Encourage founders to reflect on succession, legacy, and renewal

Core Topics

  • Entrepreneurial Legacy – What do you want to leave behind, and what’s worth carrying forward?
  • Next-Gen Leadership – What matters most to tomorrow’s leaders?
  • Business with Purpose – Aligning values, sustainability, and innovation
  • Future Readiness – Navigating change, technology, and complexity
  • Courageous Conversations – Trust, transition, and what often goes unsaid

Agenda

12:45 – Registration and Check-In

Coffee and pastries are served at the tables during the workshop.

13:00 – Welcome & Introductions

Founders and next-gen participants introduce themselves.

13:15 – Session 1: What Drives Us

Story-sharing: Founders reflect on why they started their companies; next-gen participants share what excites or challenges them.

13:45 – Session 2: Exchange on Challenges & Success

Round Table discussions exploring engagement, growth, and transition between generations.

14:15 – Session 3: Co-Creating the Future

Teams design a visual representation of a future-ready company culture. What does the next generation need from the current one? Prepare and present your ideas.

14:45 – Final Reflections

What surprised or inspired us? What will we take forward? Each participant notes one key insight or commitment.

15:00 – Thank You & Transition to the Next Session

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Spegelsalen (The Mirror Room) Berns Hotel, Berzelii park 9, 111 47 Stockholm
Blendow Group
03:00 PM

Walk to the Next Activity

Berns Hotel, Berzelii park 9, 111 47 Stockholm
03:15 PM

Founders Business Unit Meets & Coffee at The Berns Hotel Terrace

In the afternoon we gather in the Berns Hotel Terrace for a dynamic session of networking, collaboration, and business growth. This is your chance to connect with peer founders, exchange insights, and explore opportunities to support each other.

Whether you are looking to solve challenges, find strategic partners, or identify common projects, this gathering is all about help one another and create real impact.

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The Terrace, Berns Hotel, Berzelii park 9, 111 47 Stockholm

Founders Boat Cruise - Stockholm Archipelago with Peder Asplund

Peder Asplund, Founder of Agapi Boating, welcomes us aboard for this relaxed and inspiring afternoon at sea, cruising through the stunning Stockholm Archipelago in great company of your peer founders.

Meeting Point: Hotel Diplomat, Strandvägen 7C, Stockholm

Meeting Time: 15:15 PM

We serve fresh coffee, pastries all while enjoying the serene beauty of Sweden’s most iconic waterscape.

Limited spots available.

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Stockholm Archipelago with Agapi Boating
Founder Agapi Boating
05:00 PM

End of 2nd day of Founders World Summit. Time to Get Ready for the Gala

Berns Hotel, Berzelii park 9, 111 47 Stockholm

Free time & Mingle

The Terrace, Berns Hotel, Berzelii Park 9, Stockholm
06:00 PM

Founders Awards Gala Drink

Join us at the Founders Awards Gala Drink to celebrate and raise a toast with your fellow founders. It's the perfect opportunity to enjoy drinks, mingle, and connect with your peers. 

Venue: Berns Hotel, Berzelii, Stockholm

For more information: 24th Founders Awards Gala

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Berns Hotel the Ballroom, Berzelii Park 9
07:00 PM

Founders Awards Gala

Register your participation at the Founders Awards Gala here: Founders Awards Gala.

Venue: Berns Hotel, The Ballroom, Berzelii Park, Stockholm

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Berns Hotel the Ballroom, Berzelii Park 9
11:30 PM

Thank you!

Berns Hotel the Ballroom, Berzelii Park 9

Criteria for Participation

To attend the 11th Founders World Summit, founders must meet at least one of the following criteria based on their present or previous accomplishments:

  1. Principal ownership and holding a leading position in the currently founded company, with a minimum turnover of MEUR 2.5.
  2. Previously built a company as described in criteria 1) and currently holds active investments and ownership.

Exemptions

Founders Group Members and attendees who bring specific value to the participating founders, such as those from prioritized regions, industries, or backgrounds, may be exempt from the aforementioned criteria.

Inclusion for Founders Group, Entry & Ambassador Members

The Founders World Summit is fully included in the membership fee for Founders Alliance Group, Entry & Ambassador Members. 

Participation Fee for Selected Founders

Please note that the summit has limited available spaces, with priority given to the aforementioned participants. Other founders can be approved for participation based on merit and potential value to the other attendees. 

For Selected Founders, a participation fee will apply:

  • SEK 3500 Founders World Summit (Full day 25 September)
  • SEK 2300 Founders Awards Gala (Evening 25 September)

How to Become a Member

To become a member of Founders Alliance, complete the membership application here: Apply for Membership

Founders Alliance at a Glance

Founders Alliance was established in 2002 by Niclas Carlsson. Today Founders Alliance is a premium collaborative business forum for founders of large-scale corporations, owners of international growth companies and engaged in multiple social impact initiatives around the globe.

Founders Alliance facilitates a platform for collaboration for founders (members) incl. Founders Groups, one-to-one introductions, closed online communities, international business trips and events (hybrid).

The Founders World Summit, which is the annual culmination delivered for the 11th time September 24-25 2025 interlinked with the 24th Founders Awards Gala September 25, 2025 in Stockholm.

Its membership comprises over 300 high performing founders owning over 3000 companies in all parts of the world stretching across all industries and areas of expertise.

The core of Founders Alliance is independent from state funding, financial actors, advisory firms and academic institutions.

Want to become a member? Apply here!