Case Study

How to fast-track telecoms innovation

In this case study, explore how the right idea can grow enterprise in new directions. The 4YFN platform sources the world’s best collaborators in investment and specialist entrepreneurship. Find out how top venture capital firms like Wayra trust us to make introductions that spark brilliant solutions.

  • “4YFN is a key meeting point for Wayra: a space where we identify talent and emerging technologies with the potential to be integrated into Telefónica’s business, thus reinforcing our commitment to open innovation and to the growth of the entrepreneurial ecosystem.” 

    Irene Gómez CEO, Wayra

The objective

Wayra is Telefónica’s Corporate Venture Capital (CVC) initiative. They came to 4YFN with four interconnected goals: 

  • Raise awareness of Wayra’s work and reach new customers, highlighting the value of 14 years of unique knowledge gained from Telefónica’s Open Innovation strategy
  • Connect with new startups 
  • Connect with new co-investors
  • Drive innovation and entrepreneurship with other ecosystem leaders 

The solution

4YFN offers an international platform where telecoms intersects with technology and industry verticals – an ideal environment for Wayra to broaden reach and jumpstart new conversations. The tailor-made package came with a range of benefits. 

  • Customised, self-build stand and bespoke stage creating a memorable presence in the hall
  • 30-minute standalone session at the Agora stage, allowing Wayra to air its startup acceleration programme to a targeted audience of 240, including new co-investors. Topics covered included:
    • AI in gaming with Voicemod and a top streamer
    • Telefónica products with Chema Alonso
    • Collaboration between Telefónica and Perplexity
    • 'From Resilience to Action: Innovation in Climate Disaster Prevention & Management', with Bdeo and Mitiga 

The results

Wayra’s 2025 activities at 4YFN created expansive media and industry exposure.

  • +24M

    Six appearances with interviews in national tier 1 media, with a cumulative audience of over 24 million.

  • 21.5%

    LinkedIn engagement of 21.5%, 26,000+ impressions and 5,000 interactions across 12 publications.

  • 35

    35 startups from across Wayra’s world footprint had a highly visible presence at panels and the 4YFN exhibition stand – as part of an MWC event which welcomed over 109,000 delegates.