Insights

RTP, NC, December 19, 2022 — The Council for Entrepreneurial Development (CED) today announced the 2023 Venture Connect Summit + Celebration is scheduled for March 29-30 in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina. Returning to a two-day format, the Summit will feature 150 companies from the Southeast live on-stage, ecosystem focused programming, one-on-one meeting, networking receptions, and more.

“We are excited to bring Venture Connect back up to full speed this year with two days of nonstop pitching and programming for high growth companies in the Southeast,” says Kelly Rowell, CEO. “We are fortunate to have strong corporate partnerships in the region. This year, GSK has stepped up by allowing us to leverage its former corporate HQ (60,000 sq. ft.) as our primary venue.”

Venture Connect returned to an in-person event in 2022 for the first time in two years and featured 85 companies across multiple stages. CED also held the inaugural tailgate-style Celebration featuring live entertainment, local beer, and traditional North Carolina BBQ.

The 2023 Venture Connect Summit

Venture Connect reflects the multiple sectors that make up the region’s vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem. With companies in biotech, software, hardware, agtech, and food innovation. CED focuses on creating an environment that supports stronger connections, valuable programming, and learning for all. 

At Venture Connect you will experience:

Company Visibility: Venture Connect offers companies the unique opportunity to present their scaling plans to investors and potential partners over two days. Join along with over 150 companies from the Southeast live on-stage as they present their company goals to gain visibility and potential backing. Companies are invited to apply to pitch by January 13, 2023.

The Right Connections: Venture Connect draws in over 1,200 attendees and over 200 investors from across the nation. We also provide private meeting spaces for small meetings that attendees can reserve on our mobile app.

Deal Flow for Investors: In addition to seeing 100+ companies present, there will be investor reverse pitches, a growth company breakfast (invite only) and our annual Investor Dinner. This private, invite-only dinner offers a chance for our regional VCs to connect directly with out of region funds in an intimate setting on Wednesday, March 29th at an undisclosed location.

Fun: The Summit Celebration is the best tailgate party of the season and is set to return Thursday, March 30th immediately following the Summit. CED is committed to celebrating our regional ecosystem and all the people that make it a thriving, attractive place to build a high-growth company. Join us for a taste of what North Carolina has to offer – BBQ, craft brews, and live music. This is a party you won’t want to miss! Beer, wine, and spirit vendors are invited to apply to be a part of our 2023 Celebration.

Who can you expect to meet at Venture Connect? 

Startups: 150 regional start-ups and growth-stage companies that are scaling fast.
Investors: 200+ local and out-of-state investors looking to connect with scaling ventures.
Corporate Partners: Big tech/biotech like Cisco and GSK who are highly invested in the NC ecosystem.
Community Resources: The business that is aligned with accelerating the growth of companies.
Startup Supporters: Individuals who have a passion for our startup community and are looking to connect with others in the ecosystem.

How do I register? 

There are two types of tickets at Venture Connect: Startup Pass or General Attendee Pass. Your ticket includes – two days of nonstop content, networking receptions, one-on-one meeting access, and the Summit Celebration. 

For those that can only attend the tailgate party, March 30, those tickets can be purchased separately.  

Early registration will begin in January and run through February 13. Two-day pass for startups is $249 and $649 for General Admission. Regular rates begin on February 14 and prices increase to $399 and $799 respectively, so check our website starting in January!

Media interested in attending the conference should contact us at admin@cednc.org.

About CED (Council for Entrepreneurial Development)The Council for Entrepreneurial Development was formed in 1984 by a group of business leaders wanting to empower the successful creation and growth of entrepreneurial companies in the North Carolina region. CED acts as the connective center for all of this to happen. Through high-touch support, education, access to capital, and crucial connections, CED brings entrepreneurs together with the optimal resources needed to turn a new company into a success story. For more information go to www.cednc.org.