Venture Connect is the premier capital conference in the Southeast, dedicated to bridging the gap between innovative tech and biotech companies and potential investors. Scheduled for March 25-27, 2025, in Raleigh, North Carolina, this event is organized by the Center for Entrepreneurial Development (CED) and has a proven track record of facilitating significant capital raises and fostering valuable connections within the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Key Highlights of Venture Connect 2025:
- Pitch Opportunities: Selected companies have the chance to present their scaling plans to a national audience of investors, potential partners, customers, and future employees. Live pitches on multiple stages provide visibility and the potential for financial backing, showcasing the innovation emerging from the region.
- Networking: With over 200 venture capitalists and capital sources in attendance, the summit offers unparalleled opportunities for one-on-one meetings, fostering connections that drive deal flow and investment opportunities.
- Professional Development: Pre-event training sessions through the GCV Institute are designed to enhance the skills and knowledge of corporate venturing professionals, preparing them for the dynamic landscape of innovation investment.
- Social Activities: Engage in activities such as whale watching and golf on March 18, providing relaxed environments to build relationships with peers before the formal sessions commence.
Who Should Attend:
- Startups and Growth-Stage Companies: Regional companies that are scaling rapidly and seeking investment, partnerships, or increased visibility.
- Investors: Both local and out-of-state investors looking to connect with scaling ventures and explore new investment opportunities.
- Corporate and Strategic Partners: Entities invested in the North Carolina ecosystem, seeking to engage with innovative companies and explore potential collaborations.
- Community Resources: Organizations aligned with accelerating the growth of companies, offering support and services to the entrepreneurial community.
- Ecosystem Explorers: Individuals looking to connect with others in the ecosystem, gain insights, and explore opportunities within the entrepreneurial landscape.
Impact and Testimonials:
Venture Connect has a significant impact on the entrepreneurial ecosystem:
- $9 Billion raised by companies that have previously taken the stage.
- Over 200 venture capitalists and capital sources ready to invest.
- More than 1,200 in-person summit attendees.
- Over 7,000 alumni companies have pitched onstage.
Past participants have praised the event for its value and impact:
- Stacie McEntyre, CEO of Couplet Care, noted meaningful connections that benefited her company’s growth.
- Katie Gregory, Senior Director at Golden Section, highlighted the balance of investor meetings and insightful programming.
- Tim Flood, Director of Startup Accelerators at Launch Chapel Hill, emphasized the event’s central role in the region’s entrepreneurial community.
Registration Information:
Given the high demand and the summit’s prominence in the corporate venturing calendar, early registration is recommended. Secure your place to join a global network of leaders in corporate innovation, venture capital, and related sectors.
For more details on the agenda, speakers, and registration, please visit the official Venture Connect website.
Join Venture Connect 2025 to engage with industry leaders, gain actionable insights, and contribute to the evolving landscape of corporate venturing and innovation. It’s the place where capital meets innovation, and it’s the place to be if you’re a corporate investor.