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Start Up Zone Connect and Pitch

June 3, 2026 8:30 AM - 11:30 AM (EDT)

Description

Join us for Start Up Zone Connect and Pitch, a high-energy morning designed to spotlight emerging companies, spark meaningful connections, and celebrate innovation in Maryland’s tech and life sciences ecosystem. Entrepreneurs will take the stage for a fast-paced 1-Minute Lightning Round before engaging with attendees, judges, and industry leaders during an interactive networking and exhibit showcase. The program will feature insights from keynote speaker George Davis on building mission-driven companies that create meaningful impact. The event will conclude with the announcement of two winning companies, including an Audience Choice award, with two $5,000 cash prizes sponsored by PIC MC and complimentary one-year memberships to Maryland Tech Council

  • Breakfast Networking & Startup Exhibits
  • Opening Welcome
  • Keynote Speaker - "Building What Matters" - Mission-driven entrepreneurship and meaningful innovation.  - George Davis, Managing Director, Wexford Ventures
  • 1-Minute Lightning Round (12 Companies)
  • Networking + Exhibit Showcase + Judge/Attendee Engagement
  • Judges Deliberation
  • Winners Announced (2) including Audience Choice!
    • Two $5,000 cash prizes sponsored by PIC MC.
    • Complimentary one year membership to MTC

The Start-Ups:

  • BenchLab
  • Caleo
  • Lugenica
  • Upling
  • WhisperSom Medical Technologies
  • Camo Text
  • Cursive
  • Esurgi
  • Experio
  • OptimaFlo
  • Rizkly


Judges:

Brandon Canaday (Maryland Department of Commerce), Mike Buher (Citrin Cooperman), Danny Chavez  (MCEDC), Caroline Popper (Popper and Company), Julie Wilkinson (Sherpani / VentureWell), Brian McNally (USP), Prashant Panchal (AstraZeneca), and Paul Thompson (Montgomery College).




Title Sponsor


Presenting Sponsor


Start-Up Judge Sponsor:



Location

Bioscience Education Conference Center - Room BE 151

Montgomery College

Germantown, MD 20876

Pricing

MTC Member:  $35

Non-Member:  $50

Investors:  Complimentary Registration. Contact Amy at amyspeck@mdtechcouncil.com for a promo code

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Contact Information

Name: Amy Speck
Phone: (240) 831-4829
Email: amy@mdtechcouncil.com
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