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JumpStart VC Fest 2026 – A Hub for Innovation in Cleveland

JumpStart Inc. proudly announces the return of the JumpStart VC Fest, set to take place on September 29-30, 2026, at the Huntington Convention Center in downtown Cleveland. This two-day event is recognized as one of the Midwest's premier gatherings focused on fostering innovation, connecting entrepreneurs, corporate leaders, and investors.

The essence of VC Fest is to facilitate an environment where ideas and investment converge, offering valuable opportunities for direct interactions among founders and potential investors. Attendees can expect a robust agenda featuring curated meetings, startup showcases, and engaging discussions that spotlight the region's economic vitality.

A Platform for Growth and Connections

JumpStart VC Fest serves as a vital platform for startups and investors alike. For entrepreneurs, it provides an invaluable opportunity to meet a diverse range of investors in one central location. Instead of spending months on outreach, founders can engage in structured conversations and informal networking, ultimately accelerating their growth trajectory. On the other hand, investors benefit from this concentrated look at promising deal flow across the Midwest without the hassle of traveling to multiple locations.

As Lorne Novick, CEO of JumpStart Inc., emphasized, "Connecting Vision to Venture is more than a theme. It’s about opening doors for entrepreneurs ready to lead and grow." This philosophy underlies the mission of VC Fest, aiming to create a vibrant environment for collaboration and investment.

Record Attendance and Dynamic Programming

In its fourth iteration, VC Fest continues to build on its success. Last year's event attracted over 800 participants, including 298 founders and 110 investors from 38 states and 10 countries. Facilitating more than 550 curated meetings, it demonstrated substantial interest and investment potential within the Midwest's startup ecosystem.

The 2026 agenda is designed to enhance visibility and create connections with access to capital and potential customers. Key features include:

• - Startup Showcases and Pitches: Day 1 will spotlight software and healthtech companies from the JumpStart Trailblazer Accelerator, while Day 2 will feature ten of the region's most promising startups.
• - Demo Zone: This opportunity allows 20 early and growth-stage companies to present themselves to potential investors, partners, and mentors on September 29, from 9 - 11 a.m.
• - Keynote Speakers and Panels: Notable figures in venture capital and entrepreneurship will share insights on industry trends. These sessions take place on September 29 from 11 - 11:45 a.m. and September 30 from 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.
• - Networking Events: Attendees can unwind and make organic connections at receptions and special sessions, fostering a collaborative spirit among participants.
• - Women in Tech Breakfast: This event on September 30 at 8:30 - 9:30 a.m. highlights the contributions of women within the tech industry, further emphasizing inclusivity.

The Importance of Regional Collaboration

The JumpStart VC Fest not only aims to bridge gaps between startups and capital but also highlights the strengths of the Northeast Ohio economy. As noted by Daniel Hampu, President and CEO of the Burton D. Morgan Foundation, the festival cultivates a shared ambition for economic growth, emphasizing the entrepreneurial spirit present in the region.

In addition to the diverse agendas, the event will also hold a Happy Hour for investors on September 29 from 6 - 7:30 p.m., offering more avenues for collaboration and exploration of co-investing opportunities.

Join the Movement

Registration for the JumpStart VC Fest is currently open, with tickets priced at $199 for founders and general attendees, and $399 for investors and corporate attendees. Each ticket includes curated matchmaking to maximize networking potential. Interested participants can learn more and secure their spots by visiting OhioVCFest.com.

With its promising agenda and commitment to fostering innovation, the JumpStart VC Fest is set to be a landmark event for the Midwest's entrepreneurial scene, connecting visions with ventures and propelling the region's economic vitality into a future of possibilities.