Chapter 1: Conference Overview

During the 2021 Deep Tech Atelier conference held in Riga, Latvia, I had the honor of serving as the keynote speaker. This entrepreneurship-focused event centered on the commercialization of science, particularly in Med-Tech, Space-Tech, and startups.

The Deep Tech Atelier was a virtual event broadcast to over 40 countries and was hosted by Latvia's Investment & Development Agency (LIAA).

For those unfamiliar with my journey, I have faced significant setbacks, including being dismissed from professional football and expelled from university, leaving me to start over at 25. Now, 25 years later, I am dedicated to transforming ambitious visions into reality, driving cultural and technological advancements, and motivating countless entrepreneurs to make a positive impact. As a futurist, public speaker, and cause artist, I've achieved five business exits and invested in 24 social enterprises.

My passion lies in launching technology initiatives aimed at social good, particularly in creating NFT programs that empower artists, athletes, brands, and events. We strive to move beyond the model of 'Fans on Lease' and reclaim control over intellectual property and fan engagement.

In this overview, we present key moments from my speeches, encapsulated in four video segments that aim to inspire you.

What can you take away from these discussions? They provide insights and motivation to help you pursue your objectives, overcome fears, and realize your aspirations. Your transformation in life and business may begin here.

Chapter 2: Key Themes and Discussions

The special kicks off with a provocative excerpt titled: The Great Reset vs. The Great Acceleration. Technology possesses the dual capacity to either empower or dominate society. If we can envision the future, we can also shape it. What direction do we wish to pursue?

The suppression of information by major tech companies during the pandemic poses a significant threat to modern society and democratic values. We advocate for direct engagement with fans, cutting out unnecessary intermediaries.

Following this, you can view my opening keynote, which addresses the rapid changes in our current chaotic landscape and how brands can navigate the emerging trends and technologies of the 21st century.

In my concluding keynote, titled "Imagination Sparks Social Innovation," I guide the global audience through the concept of human-centered social innovation and entrepreneurship. How can we leverage technology for the greater good?

In a fireside chat, we explored my vision for the future of work, humanity, and society, during which the audience engaged in thoughtful dialogue during the Ask Me Anything segment.

Chapter 3: Keynote Highlights

In the highlight of my keynote, I discuss pressing issues such as "Build Back Better," contrasting the Great Reset with the Great Acceleration. With a billion people living in poverty and two billion facing obesity, what does this say about our global health priorities?

What guiding principles, ethics, and purpose-driven leadership are necessary to forge a brighter future? How do we tackle the ongoing pandemic, climate change, and protect our freedoms and democracies?

We must also consider our relationship with mainstream media and major tech companies, addressing the potential perils of surveillance societies, social credit systems, and authoritarian governance.

Chapter 4: Future Trends and Innovations

In my keynote on "Acceleration in an Era of Chaos and Change," I examined the ramifications of Industry 4.0 on trends and technologies that will reshape brands, businesses, nations, and humanity at large.

Who will thrive and who will falter in this shifting landscape? How can you harness these trends to achieve exponential growth? This period represents a revolution, not merely an evolution. The next three decades will witness more change than the previous three centuries.

In my talk on "Imagination Sparks Social Innovation," I delve into the essence of human-centered social innovation. How can we integrate social entrepreneurship to cultivate a more sustainable and hopeful future?

We need to focus on true purpose-driven leadership rather than succumbing to superficial marketing tactics. I aim to inspire millions annually to leverage business as a force for good.

Chapter 5: Fireside Chat & Audience Engagement

In a lively fireside chat followed by an interactive Q&A session, we discussed strategies for achieving personal goals, overcoming fears, and pursuing dreams.

We touched on themes such as space technology, the future of work and education, artificial intelligence, and the influence of ancient wisdom. Misfits, I believe, have the power to enact meaningful change in the world.

I appreciate the insightful questions posed by our moderator, Artis Ozoliņš.

Chapter 6: Additional Resources and Insights

Rick, another keynote speaker, shared his vision for the future of commercial space travel and its potential benefits for humanity.

To stay informed and challenge mainstream narratives, I invite you to subscribe to my newsletter, which provides a critical perspective on current events and trends, completely free of charge.

In our newsroom, you can see me engaging with renowned figures like Sir Richard Branson, Novak Djokovic, and Max Verstappen.

Check out my recent article in Rolling Stone, where I discuss the intersection of cause artists, athletes, and NFTs for social good.

About the Author

Igor Beuker is a distinguished keynote speaker in marketing innovation and a futurist recognized for his insights into trends and technologies that shape business, the economy, and society.

Behind the scenes, he is a social entrepreneur with five successful exits and angel investments in 24 social startups. He has developed award-winning marketing strategies for major brands like Amazon, L'Oréal, Nike, and Unilever, and has provided strategic guidance to Fortune 500 companies, organizations, foundations, and governments.