Northern Virginia Innovation Forum

Join us in person as the Northern Virginia Innovation Forum convenes leaders from technology, entrepreneurship, economic development, and the arts to explore how innovation and creativity are shaping the region’s future economy. Featuring keynote speaker Victor Hoskins and panel discussions on startups, innovation ecosystems, and the creative economy, this half-day event brings together regional leaders to discuss how communities can participate in Northern Virginia’s growth. Lunch included. Price $50.

Info: Northern Virginia has emerged as one of the nation’s leading centers for innovation, with major growth in sectors such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, aerospace, biotechnology, and data infrastructure. At the same time, the region’s creative and cultural communities play an important role in attracting talent, fostering entrepreneurship, and building vibrant places where innovation thrives.
The Northern Virginia Innovation Forum, presented as part of the Fairfax Spotlight on the Arts Festival, will bring together leaders from technology, entrepreneurship, economic development, universities, and the arts community to explore how innovation ecosystems develop and how communities like Fairfax City can participate in that growth.

Info: 10:00 – Welcome & Overview
Michael DeMarco, Fairfax Spotlight on the Arts

10:10 – Opening Remarks
Mayor Catherine Read

10:20 – Keynote: The Northern Virginia Innovation Economy
Victor Hoskins, Fairfax County Economic Development Authority

10:50 – Panel: Local Innovators
Regional leaders discuss emerging technologies, startups, workforce needs, and innovation districts

11:40 – Networking Break

11:55 – Lunch & Networking

12:25 – Panel: Innovation Ecosystem
Industry, capital, universities, talent pipelines, and the future of office and innovation space

1:15 – Panel: Creative Innovation Economy
Creativity, STEAM education, talent attraction, and economic vitality

1:50 – Closing Reflections
Ken Biberaj, Thought Leader

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Host or Publisher Spotlight on the Arts