Founders Summit 2025

Welcome to the Founders Summit!

Come join us at Gerson Hall 126.

A gathering for entrepreneurs, operators, and creators looking to take their businesses, careers, and networks to the next level. Whether you're a bootstrapped founder, venture-backed CEO, ambitious operator, or side-hustler, this event is designed for those who think big, move fast, and build the future.
Brought to you by Gator Accelerator and UF Entrepreneurship and Innovation Center, this summit is a curated experience for high-achieving students and professionals to connect, learn, and celebrate success in an inspiring atmosphere.
Our speaker lineup includes:

• Abhi Lokesh is the co-founder of Fracture
• Rick Carlson is the co-founder of Neurotone AI
• James Coats is the founder of Phalanx Defense System
• Payal Khurana is the founder of Starter Space
• Eric Buffkin is the founder of etectRx
• Hirofumi Leung is the founder of Imagin Restaurant Group
• Laila Fakhoury is the co-founder of How Bazar & Dion Dia Records
• Mitch Glaeser is the founder of Emory Group Companies & San Felasco Tech City

...and more to be announced

What to Expect
Insightful Keynotes: Experience powerful keynote sessions, panels, and exclusive talks from leading entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators. Get real insights on what it takes to build, scale, and sustain success.
Forge Powerful Connections: With a community of entrepreneurs, founders, and investors, the Founders Summit is built for networking and collaboration. Meet people who can become your next co-founder, investor, or business partner.

Why Attend?
Learn from the best – Gain insights from top entrepreneurs, VCs, and industry leaders.
Expand your network – Meet and connect with like-minded professionals and potential collaborators.
Take action – Walk away with real, actionable strategies to level up your career or business.

Host or Publisher Starter Space