FOR FOUNDERS, ENTREPRENEURS, INVESTORS & INNOVATORS
Startup Showcases ● Product Development ● Networking Events ● Keynotes ● Government and Innovation ● Biotech and Life Sciences ● AI ● Workforce & Future of Work ● Research & Commercialization
Building a better tomorrow through courageous innovation
Thu April 23 + Fri April 24
Charlottesville, VA
The 2026 Innovation Summit brought together nearly 1,000 founders, investors, policymakers, creatives, and industry leaders to explore the future of technology, entrepreneurship, investment, and policy through the lens of COURAGE. Through bold conversations, high-impact startup showcases, and visionary leadership from across Virginia and beyond, the Summit highlighted the accelerating momentum cementing Virginia’s position as a rising hub for innovation, collaboration, and courageous ideas.
Beyond the Sessions
INNOVATION SHOWCASES
The Tom Tom Innovation Showcases put Virginia’s boldest ideas in the spotlight. Selected participants gain high-visibility exposure and direct connections to investors, partners, and champions.
INVESTOR CONNECT TRACK
Where founders meet funders: a specially curated investor track for angel networks, family offices, institutional investors, accelerators and ESO‘s in partnership with the Virginia Accelerator Network.
WHY ATTEND?
Meet like-minded courageous innovators, like you!
FIND INSPIRATION
With founder focused keynotes and stories of courage
LEARN
Through hands on workshops, engaging roundtables and panel discussions
GROW
Expand your network, knowledge base, and community
CONNECT
Through mixers, curated
networking, and open houses
2026 VENUES
We’ve partnered with the best spaces in Charlottesville in order to bring you the best experience possible
