Innovate Hampton Roads is set to host the ultimate entrepreneurial party on March 13, 2025, dubbed the Norfolk Kick Back. The event, taking place in the Norfolk Innovation Corridor (NIC), aims to bring together the brightest minds from Norfolk State to ODU to discuss topics ranging from sea level rise to cybersecurity. The evening will be powered by the Venture Out program, which is designed to connect dreamers and doers while showcasing the region’s dining and entertainment scene. The event, taking place at the Glass Light Hotel & Gallery, promises real talk, real connections, and real impact, with free entry and a complimentary drink for the first 25 attendees.

Introduction

By Tim Ryan

The Ultimate Entrepreneurial Party

Hey Innovate Hampton Roads—brace yourselves, because we’re about to throw the ultimate entrepreneurial party on March 13, 2025, and it’s going to go down as the Norfolk Kick Back of all Kick Backs! We’re stoked to announce that we’re the official event sponsor, and we’re cranking the dial to 11 with our Venture Out program powering this epic night of connection, creativity, and coastal Virginia vibes. Tickets are live now—grab yours here and let’s make history together!

The Norfolk Innovation Corridor

Picture this: the Norfolk Innovation Corridor (NIC), that buzzing tech zone along the Elizabeth River Trail, lighting up with the boldest minds in Hampton Roads. From Norfolk State to ODU, this corridor’s been a launchpad for game-changers tackling sea level rise, cybersecurity, and beyond. Monthly Kick Backs have already sparked “spontaneous collisions” between startup hustlers, seasoned pros, and creatives over brews and beats. We’re aiming for the biggest turnout yet, and we need YOU to make it happen.

Venture Out Program

Through our Venture Out program, we’re doubling down on what makes Hampton Roads a hotbed for innovation. It’s not just a networking gig—it’s a movement to connect dreamers and doers, showcasing our region’s killer dining and entertainment scene while fueling the next big idea. Whether you’re an entrepreneur with a pitch, a pro looking to collab, or just vibing with the community, this is your night to shine.

Join Us at the Glass Light Hotel & Gallery

Last year, we saw the NIC cement its rep as Virginia’s tech zone to watch, drawing talent and companies who thrive on resilience and grit. Now, we’re building on that momentum. Join us at the Glass Light Hotel & Gallery, 5:30 PM, for a night that’s less about suits and more about real talk, real connections, and real impact. Free entry, good tunes, and a free drink for the first 25 through the door—let’s pack the place and show the world what Hampton Roads is made of. RSVP now and let’s venture out together!
Download the event flyer here.

Question & Answer

What is the Norfolk Kick Back event?

The Norfolk Kick Back is an entrepreneurial party hosted by Innovate Hampton Roads on March 13, 2025, in the Norfolk Innovation Corridor. It aims to bring together bright minds from Norfolk State to ODU to discuss topics like sea level rise and cybersecurity.

What is the Venture Out program?

The Venture Out program is designed to connect dreamers and doers in Hampton Roads while showcasing the region’s dining and entertainment scene. It aims to fuel innovation and creativity among entrepreneurs and professionals.

Where will the Norfolk Kick Back event take place?

The event will take place at the Glass Light Hotel & Gallery in the Norfolk Innovation Corridor. It is scheduled to start at 5:30 PM and promises real talk, real connections, and real impact for attendees.