How It Started
SILKROAD 4.0 is an independent and privately-run members network for bringing people from different business, cultural and innovation ecosystems together, on a personal level.
A global initiative of Austrian origin, and with a strong European spirit, the company grew out of an idea from 2016 when Dr. Philipe Reinisch equipped a cutting-edge motorcycle with various IoT components and communication technologies. Fully loaded, he rode overland from Austria to China, supported in real-time by a remote team of operators led by Dave O'Byrne, an Irish National based in Denmark. Together, they developed a flexible itinerary which incorporated a series of business activities, presentations and events, technology testing and high-level meetings with ambassadors, diplomats, CEO’s and high-ranking politicians in the 25 countries along the 20,000 kilometer route from western Europe to the east coast of China.
While traveling, Dr. Reinisch and Dave O'Byrne met with high-ranking technology CEO’s and experts - which have since become the foundation of the current SILKROAD 4.0 Members Network. Since then, the decentralised team has extended to offices in Copenhagen, Dublin, Budapest, Singapore, Shanghai, and of course, Vienna.
Sustainability
We drive our purpose further and we walk the talk: SILKROAD 4.0 is a CO2-neutral initiative. All carbon emissions from the expedition vehicles are compensated. Next to this, we educate all participants of our Open Business Delegation about their CO2 footprint, raising awareness and encouraging action. Also, we encourage our members to select one Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of the United Nations and push one activity forward during traveling with us. Living Sustainable Development.
Our VISION for SILKROAD 4.0
Becoming the world's leading (or only) Nomadic Incubator Network for businesses, bringing a global focus to the Digital Silk Road. In the coming years, similar expedition routes will be developed and existing partners will be involved more deeply in joint lighthouse projects. New Work concepts and decentralised organisational structures are actively scouted and applied. Global partnerships are being formed and established.
Our MISSION for SILKROAD 4.0
Bringing the spirit of the old Silk Road to the digital age: In times of rising political, social and economic instability, it is also more necessary than ever for people from all over the world to meet at eye-level to discuss the impact of constantly changing technologies, putting aside cultural biases: Europe shall learn from Asia as Asia shall learn from Europe.
We believe it is of the utmost importance to:
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Discuss contrasting perspectives in a positive and respectful environment.
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Jointly define a positive future for a united world - taking into consideration the technological opportunities...
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...then synchronise real actions towards achieving this goal together - on a global level.
