Events

Venture Connect 2026 opens with a bold framing of the venture landscape amid sweeping technological and societal change. Robert Tercek, co-founder of The Futurists Network and Nura Studios AI, explores the defining force of the 21st century: dematerialization—the ongoing shift of physical products, infrastructure, and entire industries into software. For more than three decades, software […]

In addition to the DPAC Stage presentations, Venture Connect features a dynamic lightning round where emerging technology companies present rapid-fire pitches.

From ENT care to oncology, the companies in this session are redefining how medicine is practiced, delivered, and experienced. Whether through novel device engineering, AI-powered diagnostics, or breakthrough therapeutics, these innovators are tackling some of healthcare’s most persistent challenges. Thank you, Wyrick Robbins, for sponsoring this event.

This session showcases software companies using artificial intelligence, automation, and modern cloud platforms to solve real-world problems across healthcare, construction, education, finance, and beyond. What unites them is a commitment to replacing inefficiency with intelligence — and delivering measurable impact to the people and organizations they serve.

In addition to the DPAC Stage presentations, Venture Connect features a dynamic lightning round where emerging life science companies present rapid-fire pitches.

We are excited to host an invite-only Biotech Investor Lunch during Venture Connect. This is a unique opportunity to network with fellow biotech investors over lunch and engage in insightful conversations. Thank you to Seward & Kissel & Dean Dorton for sponsoring this lunch!  

Take a break, grab a bite, and connect organically with fellow attendees. This unscripted, unstructured lunch is your time to step outside, spark new conversations, and build relationships in a relaxed setting. Whether you're diving into a deep discussion or simply recharging for the afternoon sessions, this is your opportunity to network, unwind, and fuel […]

The companies in this session are confronting some of the most pressing environmental and agricultural challenges of our time. From climate-resilient crops to next-generation water treatment and sustainable seafood, these innovators are using science to build a more resilient and sustainable world.

Transaction readiness isn’t a last-minute sprint—it’s the result of disciplined decisions made years earlier. In this session, Tyson Nargassans, CED Founder in Residence and CEO of Slope Software, shares hard-won lessons on how to structure your company so you can move quickly, command stronger valuations, and stay in control when investors or acquirers come calling. […]

Boards can accelerate your company or slow it down. In this interactive workshop, Mitch Heath draws on his experience leading and scaling a venture backed company to tackle real boardroom challenges founders face. You’ll work through how to manage dynamics, run meetings that drive decisions, and get real value from your board. Come ready to […]

The companies in this session are operating at the frontier of what hardware and deep technology can do. From advanced robotics and satellite systems to novel materials and semiconductor architecture, these innovators are building the physical and computational infrastructure of tomorrow.

An informal, high-energy meet-up designed to connect students, startups, and university partners in one room. Whether you're a founder looking for sharp summer talent or a student seeking a hands-on internship for Summer 2026, this session creates space for real conversations and meaningful connections. Come ready to introduce yourself, explore opportunities, and spark the next […]