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The Future of AI & Web3 - At Startupbootcamp Selection Days, we saw what’s next.
At Startupbootcamp, our Selection Days are not just about scouting the next unicorns. They’re about identifying the founders and technologies capable of reshaping industries and creating lasting, measurable impact.
As we kicked off Day 1 of our Spring 2025 Selection Days, the focus was clear: AI & Web3. But beneath the surface of advanced models and smart agents, a deeper theme emerged - how artificial intelligence is being used not just to optimize business, but to solve real-world problems aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
From mental health to carbon removal, education to financial inclusion - the solutions we saw this week proved that AI is maturing into a force for equity, resilience, and systemic change.
AI as a Force for Social Good
One of the most compelling trends from the day was the rise of emotionally intelligent AI - tools designed to address the growing global need for accessible, affordable mental health support. Several startups introduced AI companions and journaling platforms that offer personalized coaching, emotional tracking, and scalable therapeutic interventions.
In the world of education, AI was used to power classroom copilots that support teachers in managing learning plans, adapting content, and identifying at-risk students. These are not just efficiency plays - they are enabling greater inclusion and support in under-resourced systems.
Other founders tackled workforce well-being through AI tools that help companies optimize team dynamics, reduce burnout, and build healthier work cultures - directly contributing to SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 8 (Decent Work & Economic Growth).
Decarbonization, Inclusion, and Equity
On the environmental front, we saw AI models integrated with satellite imaging and IoT sensors to verify and scale hemp-based carbon removal - offering aviation a credible, fast, and low-energy alternative to traditional offsetting methods.
Startups also focused on financial empowerment, including AI-powered debt resolution agents helping SMEs recover small invoices without legal intimidation, and digital remittance platforms reducing hidden fees and lowering cash dependency across emerging markets. These innovations directly advance SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure).
And across all of it: a clear rejection of hype, and a commitment to solutions that are transparent, ethical, and human-centered.
Our Takeaway
What we saw on Day 1 confirms a growing shift: The most exciting AI innovations are not just solving problems. They’re reshaping systems - and doing it with purpose.
Whether it’s supporting mental well-being, enabling inclusive education, decarbonizing sectors, or unlocking access to capital, these technologies are built with a mission to drive change at scale.
And that’s exactly the kind of innovation we back.
What’s Next
On April 2, we explore the future of DeepTech & Robotics. On April 3, we dive into the future of Food & AgriTech. We’ll continue spotlighting founders building not only powerful tech, but meaningful, measurable solutions aligned with global needs.
On April 4, 17:00 CET, we will announce 30 startups across AI & Web3, DeepTech & Robotics, and Food & AgriTech that have been selected into the Spring programs.
Want to get involved as an investor, mentor, or partner? Reach out to relations@startupbootcamp.com - we’d love to collaborate.
For more information about Bold 2 visit: www.sbcbold2.com
For founders interested in pre-applying to our accelerators: www.startupbootcamp.org/startups/accelerators
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