Please note that the schedule and panel lineup are subject to change. Kindly refer to this space for the most up-to-date information.
Manu Gupta
Manu Gupta, Dean, Graduate School, VCU
Venkatesh Raghavendra, Social Entrepreneur and Philanthropy Advisor
Venue: Atrium
Moderator:
Krystle Kaul
Founder, Krystle Klear Communications
Panelists
Dustin Dunbar, Senior Investment Associate, Virginia Venture Partners
Debbie Irwin, Managing Director at Lighthouse Labs RVA
The panel will share insights on securing capital at every stage of growth. From tapping into angel investors and family/friends’ networks to navigating the venture capital landscape, this discussion will provide actionable strategies for founders looking to raise funds. Gain firsthand knowledge from those who have successfully built and financed startups, and learn what it takes to attract the right investors for your business.
Building bold: Strategic growth lessons from the federal to startup world
Tonya Alston, Senior Growth Executive and Senior Vice President at Agile Defense, in conversation with Poorva Dharkar, CEO of Ziva.
Panelists
Chiranth Nataraj, Founder, Visitor Guard
Jyot Singh, Founder and CEO, RTS Labs
Krystle Kaul, Krystle Klear Communications
Can you build a thriving startup without a big budget? The panel brings together seasoned founders who have successfully launched and scaled their businesses with minimal capital and a bootstrapping mindset. They’ll share firsthand experiences, practical advice, and proven strategies on operating lean, leveraging alternative funding sources, and making the most of limited resources. Whether you're just starting out or looking to grow sustainably, this discussion will equip you with the tools to build a resilient, self-funded startup.
Presenter:
Poorva Dharkar, Founder & CEO , Ziva Consulting LLC
Marketing isn’t just a growth function—it’s a founding mindset. In this hands-on workshop, startup founders and early-stage teams will learn how to design a smart, scalable marketing strategy from the very beginning. You'll explore how to define your brand, identify your ideal customer, craft your core message, and choose the right channels to build traction early.
Moderator
Asif Ismail, Founder & CEO, The American Bazaar
Panelists
Sanjay Mittal, Founder and CEO, eHealthObjects
Kuntal Warwick, KSW Consulting
Dr. Iven Jose, Director, Manipal Institute of Technology, MAHE-Bengaluru Campus
What does it take to build a winning startup? In this panel, accomplished founders will share the key factors behind their success — from overcoming early challenges to scaling effectively. Through candid discussions, they’ll reveal lessons learned, pivotal decisions, and strategies that helped them navigate the startup journey. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned founder, this session will provide valuable insights and inspiration to help you build and sustain a thriving business.
Moderator
Srinivas Alladi, Yotta Tech Ports Inc
Panelists
Dev Roy, IntraIntel.AI
Rohan Hundia, Unada Labs
Aliyah Desautels, Otterwise.io
Discover the next wave of groundbreaking startups as visionary founders take the stage to showcase their innovations. This dynamic session will feature emerging companies across diverse industries, highlighting cutting-edge solutions, disruptive ideas, and the entrepreneurial spirit driving them forward. Whether you're an investor, industry leader, or startup enthusiast, the Startup Showcase offers a front-row seat to the future of innovation.