Polarsteps chief to join leading European startup stage
Clare Jones, the newly appointed CEO of travel-tech scale-up Polarsteps, will be among the headline speakers at the EU-Startups Summit 2026, taking place on May 7-8 in Malta. The annual gathering is one of Europe’s key meeting points for founders, investors and operators shaping the continent’s innovation ecosystem.
Showcasing the rise of travel-tech
Known for its app that lets users automatically track, plan and share their trips, Polarsteps has become a reference name in the digital travel space. By combining intuitive design with smart location technology and data-driven recommendations, the company has tapped into a growing demand for seamless, mobile-first trip documentation.
At the summit, Clare Jones is expected to discuss how travel habits are evolving, how digital platforms can enhance on-the-road experiences, and why Europe remains a strong base for building globally competitive travel-tech products.
Focus on scaling, product and community
From product-led growth to global reach
The EU-Startups Summit typically attracts thousands of attendees, including early-stage founders, scale-up leaders and venture capital investors. In this context, Clare Jones is set to share insights on scaling a consumer app internationally, balancing rapid user growth with sustainable business models, and leveraging community feedback for continuous product improvement.
Networking hub for founders and investors
Beyond the main stage talks, the Malta event will feature startup pitch competitions, curated networking, and an exhibition area showcasing emerging European ventures. With more than 81,000 founders and investors already following EU-Startups’ activities through its newsletter, the summit has become a strategic platform for startups seeking visibility and funding.
By bringing leaders like Clare Jones to the agenda, the 2026 edition aims to highlight how European consumer-tech companies can build strong brands, harness data analytics, and navigate an increasingly competitive global travel landscape.