Access Interested Investors
Connect with top venture capitalists, angel networks, and fund managers actively seeking early-stage and high-growth deals.
EXCLUSIVE 1-on-1 matchmaking with top VC investors and Corporates
Our curated 1:1 meetings match capital-seeking founders with the right investors and corporate partners to grow your business. How it works:
- Register – Share your details to help us make the best matches.
- Get Matched – Our advanced tool aligns you with high-potential partners.
- Review & Confirm – See your matches in advance and lock in your meetings.
- Meet & Pitch – Make every minute count in the Venture Connections Zone.
vc firms that participated in the past
why attend?
Showcase Your Innovation
Participate in the Demo Zone to showcase how your technology solves your customer's problems
Participate in Pitches
Pitch your business to investors and corporates interested in partnering with innovative startups
Get Inspired
Gain insights from elite leaders and national VCs on scaling, fundraising, AI integration, team building, and more.
Build Your Network
Meet other founders, mentors, and ecosystem leaders who can open doors, spark ideas, and fuel your growth.
Demo zone
Tech startups building innovative solutions with the potential to transform industries and create lasting impact have an opportunity to showcase their innovation to investors, corporate leaders, and ecosystem partners.
With no exhibit fee, selected companies will receive dedicated booth space in the VC Fest Demo Zone to demonstrate their technology, engage with attendees, and increase visibility among potential customers, partners, and investors.
Only 20 companies will be selected. To be considered, indicate your interest when completing your Founder registration.
eligibility criteria
- Based in Ohio or willing to relocate to Ohio.
- Building innovative solutions in HealthTech, Software, HardTech, or Experiential Tech.
- Offering a differentiated, technology-driven solution with strong market potential.
- Have a working prototype, MVP, or market-ready product.
- Early-stage to growth-stage company demonstrating traction, commercialization, or scaling potential.
- Actively raising capital or planning to raise within the next 12 months.
On-Stage Pitches
On Day 2 of the event, selected tech startups from across the region will take the stage to present their companies to investors, corporate leaders, and ecosystem stakeholders.
This high-visibility opportunity is designed to spotlight innovative startups, share your story, and showcase your solution in front of an engaged audience of potential investors, partners, and customers.
Limited spots available. Only 10 companies will be selected by September 16. To be considered, indicate your interest when completing your Founder registration.
- Format: 6-minute live pitch presentations
- Requirements: Final Pitch deck must be submitted 7 days before the event. Selected companies are required to attend a technical check-in on September 29.