The Xtalk Series is a collaborative environment designed to educate, connect, and create funding opportunities for Web3 innovators. With the rise of crypto conferences, meetups, and virtual gatherings, attendees often question which events are worth their time and investment. This episode on 26 June 2024 dives into the strategies, tips, and emerging trends that help individuals and projects maximize their event experiences.
Why In-Person Web3 Events Still Matter
Elena, co-founder of Supermoon, emphasizes the importance of in-person experiences in the Web3 industry. With over 18,000 founders, builders, and investors in their network, Supermoon curates events that foster trust, collaboration, and strategic partnerships. While many events focus on parties, the most valuable gatherings are smaller, curated events where attendees can engage in meaningful conversations and discover new opportunities.
How to Maximize Your Event Experience
Captain Krypto, a crypto investor and marketing expert, stresses the need for a clear event strategy. Whether attending a major conference or a niche meetup, having a plan is crucial:
- Set Clear Goals – Are you looking for investors, strategic partners, or developers?
- Plan Your Itinerary – With multiple events happening simultaneously, prioritize those most relevant to your objectives.
- Collect & Follow Up on Contacts – Networking doesn't end at the event; following up is key to building long-term relationships.
He also highlights that while online events became popular during COVID-19, nothing beats the face-to-face interactions of in-person meetings.
How Investors Find the Best Projects at Events
James McDow, a founding partner at Arcanum Capital, explains that quality deal flow often comes from targeted side events rather than large conferences. The most effective events:
- Attract the right investors – Matching projects with investors who have an actual interest in their industry.
- Encourage meaningful interactions – Rather than overwhelming investors with information, a short and compelling introduction is best.
- Avoid event fatigue – Focus on networking rather than just attending every session.
Common Mistakes Founders Make at Events
Many founders overwhelm investors with excessive details, delivering long, unfocused pitches. Instead:
- Keep it short and intriguing—a one-sentence pitch can be more effective than a full presentation.
- Identify whether the investor is technical or consumer-focused and tailor the message accordingly.
- Understand the investor’s cycle—Some funds may be fully deployed and not actively investing.
The Art of Pitching & Following Up
As Kody, Chief Experience Officer at Layer One X, points out, pitching is like flirting—it’s about sparking interest, not dumping all the details at once. Investors want to see persistence, so follow up regularly. As one expert put it, “If a founder isn’t persistent enough to follow up, I’m not interested.”
The Future of Web3 Events
If panelists could redesign crypto events from scratch, they would:
- Prioritize quality over quantity—fewer, more intimate gatherings rather than overcrowded conferences.
- Ensure attendees have mutual interests to foster real connections.
- Reduce pointless noise (loud music, party-focused distractions) and create spaces for meaningful conversations.
Web3 events are more than just networking—they are opportunities to find strategic partners, funding, and long-term allies. Whether you are a founder, investor, or developer, approaching events with a clear strategy, strong pitch, and persistent follow-up will maximize your success.
