JumpStart VC Fest

JumpStart VC Fest is the Midwest’s flagship gathering for founders, investors, and corporate innovators who are building what’s next.

For two days, the region’s most ambitious entrepreneurs, active venture investors, and forward-thinking corporate leaders come together to create the connections that drive innovation forward. Through curated networking, startup showcases, investor meetings, and industry-leading content, JumpStart VC Fest is designed to turn introductions into opportunities and opportunities into outcomes.

This isn’t just another conference. It’s where founders find capital, investors discover their next great investment, and corporations connect with emerging technologies and strategic partnerships that fuel growth.

Over the past four years, JumpStart VC Fest has become a catalyst for meaningful connections across the venture ecosystem. Conversations started here have led to investments, partnerships, pilot programs, customer relationships, and long-term growth.

Our theme, Connecting Vision to Venture, reflects our commitment to creating an environment where ideas meet capital, innovation meets opportunity, and relationships lead to measurable results.

Join the founders, investors, and corporate leaders shaping the future of venture and innovation in the Midwest.

Because the most valuable connection is the one that changes what’s possible.

One of the most valuable experiences at VC Fest, 1:1 Venture Connections are curated, 20-minute meetings designed to help founders, investors, and corporate leaders make meaningful connections that lead to real opportunities.

Powered by our proprietary matching platform, participants are paired based on investment focus, business needs, industry expertise, and strategic interests—creating highly compatible meetings that maximize the value of every conversation.

Whether you’re a founder seeking capital and strategic partnerships, an investor exploring quality deal flow, or a corporate leader looking for innovative technologies and collaboration opportunities, Venture Connections helps you connect with the people who matter most.

• Register – Complete your profile and tell us about your goals and interests.
• Get Matched – Our matching platform identifies highly compatible connections based on your criteria.
• Review & Confirm – Preview your matches and confirm the meetings you’d like to attend.
• Connect – Participate in focused, 20-minute conversations designed to uncover opportunities for investment, partnerships, customers, pilots, and growth.

The best outcomes start with the right connections. Register now to participate.

Register today to connect with industry innovators, disruptors, and motivated founders and investors who are fueling growth and shaping the Midwest’s tech economy.

Visit to learn more.

Located just steps away from the Huntington Convention Center, the Downtown Cleveland Marriott at Key Tower is the official hotel partner of JumpStart VC Fest.

Book your stay by September 7, to take advantage of the special $259/night group rate. Limited rooms available.

Reserve Now: