Wharton Startup Summit 2026
Schedule
Fri Mar 27 2026 at 09:00 am to 05:00 pm
UTC-04:00Location
Sheraton Philadelphia University City Hotel | Philadelphia, PA
About this Event
Join us for one of the largest founder & investor gatherings at Wharton this year — bringing together leaders across AI, fintech, healthcare, and consumer for candid conversations on building and scaling in today’s market.
This year’s lineup features founders and operators from Tennr, EliseAI, Stan, Pair AI, and Oleum (backed by a16z) — alongside leaders from Google AI and early-stage investors from Precursor VC. These are builders actively scaling vertical AI companies, driving product and go-to-market strategy, and making real-time investment decisions — not just reflecting on them.
Across five focused panels, we’ll dive into:
• What it actually takes to build and win in vertical AI
• How early-stage investors evaluate founders today
• Product vs. GTM tradeoffs in high-growth startups
• Where the next wave of opportunity is emerging
If you're exploring startups, venture, or building something of your own, this is a room you’ll want to be in.
Agenda
🕑: 09:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Registration & Breakfast
Info: Kick off the day with coffee and networking alongside founders, investors, and operators from across the Wharton community and beyond.
🕑: 10:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Innovations in Deep Tech
Info: Opening Remarks
Morning Keynote Conversation
A featured leader shares firsthand insights on building, scaling, and navigating today’s innovation landscape.
Industry Panels
Four dynamic panels exploring the most important sectors shaping the next decade:
Artificial Intelligence – Vertical AI, product strategy, and scaling
Healthcare – Innovation in complex, regulated markets
Fintech – Financial infrastructure and the future of capital
Consumer – Community, brand, and modern growth playbooks
(Potential additional session on venture capital and early-stage investing)
Lunch & Curated Networking
Connect directly with speakers and attendees over lunch.
Afternoon Keynote Conversation
An in-depth fireside chat with a leading founder or investor.
Closing Remarks & Open Networking Reception
5:00 PM – Summit Concludes
Breakfast, lunch, and refreshments will be provided throughout the day.
Where is it happening?
Sheraton Philadelphia University City Hotel, 3549 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, United StatesEvent Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 44.52 to USD 81.88



















