Future Forward: Insights from Innovative Business & Tech Talks
Key Insights from Innovative Business & Tech Talks
Featured Presentations: Innovation & Impact
- Lluís Molas – “Introduction to Programming” (ESIC Garage)
This talk introduced the basics of programming and its relevance in today’s digital world. Lluís Molas aimed to explain how programming works, the differences between languages, and the importance of learning computational thinking. The session combined historical context, coding fundamentals (like loops, conditions, and events), and hands-on tools like Micro:bit and Python, showing how coding can be used to solve real-world problems creatively. - Segundo Plato – Social Entrepreneurship Against Food Waste
This talk was about the creation of Segundo Plato, a catering and digital canteen business that combines healthy eating, food surplus recovery, and social inclusion. The speakers, Maria and Alberto, explained how their startup trains people at risk of social exclusion and uses food that would otherwise go to waste. Their goal was to show how a socially responsible business can be economically viable and create meaningful impact. - Mixodrink – Innovative Beverage Solutions
The Mixodrink presentation focused on modernizing and innovating the beverage and cocktail experience through technology. They explained how their system offers precise, customizable drink preparation using intelligent dispensers, aimed at bars, events, and the hospitality industry. Their goal was to show how combining technology, design, and business can create scalable, efficient solutions in the food and beverage sector.
Segundo Plato: Social Impact & Sustainable Catering
Insights and reflections on Segundo Plato’s unique approach to social entrepreneurship and food waste reduction.
What makes Segundo Plato different?
I believe the dual mission strengthens the business because it creates a strong, socially driven brand identity. Combining environmental sustainability with social inclusion not only addresses two urgent issues but also makes the company stand out in a competitive market. Most catering companies focus only on taste or price, but Segundo Plato adds a strong social and environmental mission, which makes their model more ethical and sustainable. However, it can also complicate operations—balancing social goals with profitability requires careful management and clear priorities.
Sustainable Catering with Surplus Food: Realistic?
Yes, it’s realistic if managed carefully. The main challenge is logistics—ensuring a consistent, safe supply of surplus food that meets quality standards. But the opportunity is huge: it reduces costs, fights food waste, and appeals to eco-conscious clients. Communication and transparency are key to gaining consumer trust in the quality of such food.
Would you use Segundo Plato’s services?
Yes, I would—especially if the food is prepared safely and tastes good. Marketing is crucial here: the way Segundo Plato presents their food as “high-quality despite imperfections” changes how I view it. Transparency and storytelling build trust and turn a potential weakness into a unique selling point.
Recommended marketing strategies for Segundo Plato
They should focus on transparency, storytelling, and showcasing the final product’s quality. Testimonials, behind-the-scenes videos, and chef endorsements can help. Emphasizing the social and environmental impact also makes clients feel part of something bigger. Offering free tastings at events or businesses could also break down skepticism.
Is the “Digital Canteen” concept scalable?
Yes, it’s scalable—especially in urban areas with a strong office culture. Success depends on logistics, local supplier relationships, and cultural attitudes toward surplus food. The platform must also be user-friendly. Failure could come from inconsistent food supply, poor quality control, or a lack of trust in the concept.
Most inspiring aspect of Segundo Plato’s presentation
I was inspired by how they turned food waste into a resource rather than a problem. It challenged my assumptions that discarded food is low quality. This talk helped me see entrepreneurship not just as a way to make money, but as a platform for meaningful change when guided by strong values.
Challenges for Segundo Plato and proposed solutions
Convincing clients to trust ‘surplus food’ is a key challenge. There’s a stigma around this — many people think that if food didn’t meet supermarket standards, it must be bad. If I were on their team, I would focus on transparency and education. For example, I would create a video series showing how they select ingredients and the cooking process, highlighting the chefs’ Michelin-star experience.
Mixodrink: Innovating Hospitality with Technology
Reflections on Mixodrink’s impact on the beverage industry and its future potential.
Problem Mixodrink solves in hospitality
Mixodrink addresses the issue of long wait times and inconsistent drink quality in venues like nightclubs and festivals. By introducing a self-service cocktail machine, they streamline the beverage service process, ensuring quick and consistent drinks. This solution effectively enhances customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.
Mixodrink’s strengths and weaknesses
The biggest strength is its strong brand identity — it looks premium, and it feels like a luxury product. The biggest weakness could be seasonality or competition — people don’t drink cocktails every day, and many other premium drink brands are entering the space. They’ll need to innovate constantly to stay ahead.
Marketing strategies to grow Mixodrink sales
I would create limited-edition influencer boxes and use TikTok to show mixology tips or behind-the-scenes shots of cocktail creation. I’d also explore partnerships with lifestyle brands, events, and subscription boxes — that way, they stay top-of-mind in luxury and celebration settings.
Future potential of Mixodrink
I think Mixodrink has strong potential for brand partnerships and international expansion. For example, they could collaborate with hotels, airlines, or fashion events, where premium drinks elevate the experience. Also, given the rise of influencer marketing and curated subscription boxes, Mixodrink could build a loyalty club or exclusive tastings. One smart move could be entering the non-alcoholic cocktail market, which is growing fast. I believe with the right storytelling and digital strategy, Mixodrink could become a reference in the premium lifestyle space.
Most innovative aspect of Mixodrink’s presentation
I was particularly impressed by Mixodrink’s self-service cocktail machine, which can prepare over 500 different combinations without human assistance. The idea of automating cocktail preparation to reduce waiting times and operational costs in venues like festivals and nightclubs was both innovative and practical. It showcased how technology can enhance customer experience in the hospitality industry.
Impact of Mixodrink’s technology on employment
While automation like Mixodrink’s machines could reduce the need for bartenders in certain settings, it also opens up opportunities for staff to focus on other aspects of customer service that require a human touch. Moreover, it could lead to new roles in managing and maintaining such technologies, suggesting a shift rather than a loss in employment.
Agreement with Mixodrink’s expansion vision
I agree with the vision, as the challenges Mixodrink addresses—like long wait times and high operational costs—are common in the hospitality industry worldwide. Expanding to markets in Europe and the U.S. could help standardize efficient service models and meet the growing demand for quick, consistent service in high-traffic venues.
Lluís Molas: Programming for the Future
Key takeaways and personal reflections on the importance of programming skills in a digital world.
Most surprising or inspiring part of Lluís Molas’ talk
The most inspiring part was the emphasis on tools like Micro:bit and MakeCode that help young people become digital creators, not just consumers. It showed me that programming isn’t just for professionals—it’s an empowering tool for anyone. This broadened my view, helping me realize that programming is more about solving real problems than writing perfect code.
Why programming is a necessary skill across industries
Because technology is everywhere — in marketing, logistics, design, and even healthcare. Understanding code helps you understand how systems work, even if you’re not a full-time developer. It’s a bit like learning English — not everyone needs to write novels, but most people benefit from being fluent.
Motivation to learn to code after this talk
Yes — especially because the talk made it feel achievable. I liked how Lluís showed both basic and advanced examples and connected them to real-life applications like automation and data analysis. Learning to code could open many doors, and this talk made that clear.
Envisioning the programmer’s role in the future
I believe coding will become a basic skill across professions. Like using spreadsheets or email today, programming logic and automation tools will be part of everyday work. Programmers will not only develop software but also collaborate more with other fields to create interdisciplinary solutions. Understanding code, even at a basic level, will empower professionals to innovate and work more efficiently.
Should programming be introduced earlier in schools?
Yes, definitely. Introducing programming early encourages logical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. Tools like Micro:bit are simple and engaging, making coding fun and less intimidating. Early exposure also helps reduce the digital divide and prepares students for a future where tech literacy is essential.
How the speaker changed perspective on programming
Before the session, I thought programming was mostly for engineers or people who were naturally good at math. But Lluís Molas emphasized that programming is about problem-solving and creativity, and that tools like Python and Micro:bit are designed to be beginner-friendly. It made me feel like I could actually enjoy and succeed in programming, especially seeing how useful it is in fields like marketing, automation, and even decision-making.
Most impactful real-world use case discussed
Process automation will likely have the biggest impact. It can reduce human error, increase efficiency, and cut costs in almost every industry. With the rise of AI and machine learning, automation will become more intelligent, transforming how businesses operate and making services more responsive and scalable.
Programming: Logic and problem-solving vs. just writing code
Yes, I completely agree. Lluís Molas made it clear that coding is just one part of programming. The real challenge—and fun—is in breaking down problems and thinking of solutions. Writing the code is just the final step. This mindset shift made me less intimidated by programming and more curious to try solving small challenges myself.