2026 RISE Summit for Entrepreneurs and Innovators

Gather with other entrepreneurs and innovators to learn new skills and connect with resources at the 3rd annual RISE Summit in Danville!
About this Event

RISE Summit
Thursday, August 27, 2026

Institute for Advanced Learning & Research
150 Slayton Avenue, Danville, VA

9:00 AM–4:30 PM
Doors open at 8:30 AM for check-in and networking.

Join entrepreneurs, business owners, innovators, manufacturers, farmers, and community leaders from across Southern Virginia for the 3rd Annual RISE Summit.

This year's theme, Innovation in Business, Manufacturing, and Agriculture, brings together inspiring speakers, practical workshops, and valuable networking to help you grow your business and discover new opportunities.

Featured Highlights

• Hear Kelsey Robertson, Founder & CEO of TECHnista, share the journey of growing her company from startup to scale-up and why entrepreneurship plays an important role in strengthening the manufacturing economy.
• Join a regional conversation on entrepreneurship, innovation, and economic development, moderated by Kiana Dillard of the West Piedmont Planning District Commission and featuring leaders including Gretchen Clark of Hurt & Profitt.
• Choose from interactive breakout sessions covering:
  Artificial Intelligence (AI)
  Cybersecurity in manufacturing and food systems
  Controlled Environment Agriculture
  Makerspaces and product development
  Business growth and other innovation topics

Your Registration Includes

• Full access to keynote presentations and breakout sessions
• Buffet lunch with vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary options
• Complimentary coffee, tea, soft drinks, water, and snacks throughout the day
• Exclusive RISE Summit swag
• Free Wi-Fi
• Networking with entrepreneurs, industry experts, resource partners, and investors from across Southern Virginia

Whether you're launching a startup, growing an established business, developing new products, or exploring innovative ideas, you'll leave the RISE Summit with practical strategies, valuable connections, and resources to help move your business forward.

Space is limited. Register today to reserve your seat.

Agenda

🕑: 08:30 AM
Doors Open for Early Check-In
🕑: 09:00 AM - 09:30 AM
Check-In and Networking
🕑: 09:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Opening Session & Main Session 1
🕑: 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Breakout Sessions Rounds 1 & 2
🕑: 12:30 PM - 01:30 PM
Networking Lunch
🕑: 01:30 PM - 02:45 PM
Breakout Sessions Round 3
🕑: 02:45 PM - 03:30 PM
Main Session 2: Regional Innovation Conversation
🕑: 03:30 PM - 04:30 PM
Connect & Collaborate: Networking Hour