A Journey Through Innovation in a Start Up Nation
Three Years at MassChallenge Switzerland
Have you ever been in a room so full of energy, creativity, and possibility that you could almost feel it in the air? That’s exactly how I’d describe my experience as a judge and mentor for MassChallenge Switzerland over the past three years. It’s not just an accelerator program—it’s a heartbeat of innovation, a meeting ground for dreamers and doers determined to reshape our world.
Sitting across from these entrepreneurs—each one brimming with passion and purpose—you realise something extraordinary: no matter where they come from, they’re all driven by a common thread. They’re here to solve real problems, tackle big challenges, and make life better for all of us. And let me tell you, being part of that energy has been nothing short of transformative.
A Front Row Seat to the Future
Every year, hundreds of startups apply to join MassChallenge Switzerland, and as a judge, I’ve had the privilege of diving deep into their ideas. From the moment you read their pitches, you know you’re about to witness something special. It’s not just the creativity—it’s the sheer audacity of their solutions that leaves you in awe.
Over the years, I’ve seen startups addressing challenges we all face but often take for granted. There’s innovation in sustainable food systems that reimagine how we grow, distribute, and consume food. Entrepreneurs are pushing the boundaries in health tech, creating tools that don’t just treat but truly empower patients. And then there are the climate warriors, developing game-changing technologies to combat environmental degradation and promote sustainability.
Each topic represents not just a solution but a movement—a step forward for all of us.
Feeling the Pulse of the Startup Nation
The best part of this journey? It’s not just the ideas—it’s the people. Entrepreneurs from every corner of the world come to MassChallenge Switzerland, bringing their stories, perspectives, and relentless drive. Sitting with them, you can feel the pulse of what I like to call the “startup nation.”
It’s raw. It’s electric. It’s contagious.
As a mentor, I get to see their evolution up close. I’ve watched nervous but hopeful founders grow into confident, purpose-driven leaders. I’ve seen ideas evolve from sketches on paper to fully-fledged businesses ready to take on the world. It’s a reminder of why I do what I do—to support, guide, and learn alongside some of the brightest minds out there.
More Than Just Business
One of the most beautiful aspects is how personal it feels. These aren’t just business pitches or market strategies—they’re pieces of people’s lives, their dreams brought to life. Supporting them isn’t just about offering advice; it’s about believing in their vision and standing beside them as they fight to make it real.
And honestly, it’s humbling. You can’t help but walk away with a sense of gratitude for being part of something so much bigger than yourself.
The Takeaway
If there’s one thing these three years have taught me, it’s that the world is full of possibilities—if we have the courage to pursue them. MassChallenge Switzerland isn’t just about startups; it’s about hope, resilience, and the sheer power of human ingenuity.
And every time I step into that room, I’m reminded of one simple truth: the future isn’t something we wait for—it’s something we build, one bold idea at a time.
Want to feel inspired? Just spend an afternoon with an entrepreneur. It’ll change the way you see the world—I know it’s changed mine.
To your success,
Marc Luanghy
