Insights

RTP, NC, February 8, 2024  — Raleigh, North Carolina, is once again poised to host the esteemed Venture Connect conference, now in its 40th year, at the iconic Citrix Building in downtown Raleigh. This two-day event, scheduled for March 20-21, 2024, will showcase the vibrant entrepreneurial spirit that thrives in the heart of North Carolina.

The Citrix Building, a symbol of local entrepreneurial success, serves as the perfect venue for this milestone event. Jes Lipson, a local entrepreneur, founded ShareFile, which was later acquired by Citrix, marking a significant chapter in Raleigh’s tech history. Further enhancing this legacy, Citrix’s recent acquisition by Cloud Software Group reflects a continued commitment to fostering innovation in North Carolina. This partnership with CED (Council for Entrepreneurial Development) underscores a shared vision to propel the region’s tech ecosystem forward.

Venture Connect 2024 will feature 125 emerging companies, each taking the stage to pitch their innovative ideas to a gathering of investors, industry leaders, and enthusiasts. This unique format provides a dynamic platform for startups to showcase their potential and for investors to discover groundbreaking opportunities.

Complementing the daytime activities, Venture Connect offers exclusive networking opportunities, including evening happy hours and a private dinner for investors. These gatherings provide invaluable opportunities for attendees to connect, exchange ideas, and build lasting relationships within the entrepreneurial community.

The conference culminates in the much-anticipated tailgate party atop the downtown parking deck. Dubbed the “best tailgate party of the year,” this event promises a festive atmosphere with live music, delicious BBQ, local brews, and unparalleled company, all set against the stunning backdrop of downtown Raleigh.

Tickets for Venture Connect are now available, with special pricing for startups at $249 and general admission at $649. Prospective attendees are urged to act swiftly as ticket prices will increase after February 12. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.cednc.org/venture-connect.

Join us at Venture Connect 2024 to witness the fusion of tradition and innovation, and to celebrate 40 years of entrepreneurial excellence in Raleigh.

About Venture Connect

Venture Connect, organized by the Council for Entrepreneurial Development (CED), is a premier conference that brings together the brightest minds in business, investment, and entrepreneurship. Established in 1984, it has become a landmark event in North Carolina, promoting innovation, collaboration, and growth within the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

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.

Contact Information:
Kelly Rowell
CEO, CED
krowell@cednc.org