By Tim Ryan

Hey, Everyone! At Innovate Hampton Roads, we’re all about fueling the fire of entrepreneurship right here in our vibrant coastal region. We’ve been shouting from the rooftops about the Startup World Cup Virginia Regional Finals on August 21—and for good reason. This isn’t just an event; it’s a launchpad that’s putting Virginia on the global map. But why stop at one epic celebration when we can make it two? We’re thrilled to announce the Startup World Cup Pre-Party at The Hive in Virginia Beach, designed to supercharge your networking before the main showdown even begins.

Let’s rewind a bit to paint the full picture of how far we’ve come. Just last year, in 2024, we hosted our inaugural Startup World Cup Virginia Qualifier, and it was a game-changer. Local powerhouse ivWatch took home the regional win and went on to snag third place globally in San Francisco, proving that Hampton Roads isn’t just a beach destination—it’s a breeding ground for world-class innovation. Startups like M-Con innovations, with their revolutionary mobile gaming tech, and GabbVR, transforming language learning through AR/VR, stole the spotlight and attracted eyes from across the nation. Since then, we’ve seen a surge in entrepreneurial energy: more founders pitching bold ideas, investors scouting talent, and collaborations sparking across sectors like tech, biotech, and creative industries. Our mission at Innovate Hampton Roads has always been to tell this story—to educate our community about the untapped potential here and showcase it to the world. Events like this have drawn in talent from Richmond to Roanoke, fostering a ecosystem that’s collaborative, resilient, and ready to scale. We’ve built momentum, with partnerships from VIPC, Pegasus Tech Ventures, and Networking Happy Hour amplifying our reach. The result? A region that’s evolving from under-the-radar to a potential tech powerhouse, rivaling spots like Seattle in creativity and grit.

Fast-forward to 2025, and we’re doubling down on that success. The Startup World Cup Virginia Regional Finals return on August 21 from 5 to 8 PM at the Sandler Center in Virginia Beach Town Center. Ten of Virginia’s top startups will battle it out with high-energy pitches for a shot at the $1 million investment prize in San Francisco. It’s your chance to witness game-changing ideas, connect with mentors, investors, and fellow entrepreneurs in a relaxed, out-of-the-box vibe. But here’s where it gets even better: With attendees jetting in from across Virginia, the U.S., and even overseas (yes, we’ve got folks crossing the Atlantic!), we didn’t want to leave networking to chance—especially with our infamous Hampton Roads traffic. Enter the Pre-Party Celebration at The Hive Downtown (140 Independence Boulevard, Virginia Beach, VA 23462) starting at 3 PM on the same day.

This two-hour kickoff is all about early connections, complimentary food, drinks, and fun in a laid-back setting just a short walk from the Sandler Center. Imagine mingling with seasoned founders, eager investors, creatives, operators, and innovation champions from around the globe. Whether you’re a startup veteran pitching your next big thing or a curious supporter dipping your toes into the scene, this pre-party sets the perfect tone. No more rushing through rush hour—arrive early, raise a glass, and dive into conversations that could spark your next collaboration or breakthrough. It’s free to attend, so grab your spot now via Eventbrite and let’s celebrate the future of startups together.

For us at Innovate Hampton Roads, this dual celebration isn’t just about the hype—it’s about real benefits for you, our community. You’ll gain exclusive access to diverse perspectives, potential funding leads, and partnerships that extend beyond our shores. It’s a boost for local businesses, drawing in tourism and talent that strengthens our economy. Plus, by starting early, we’re ensuring everyone maximizes their experience, turning one night into a full immersion in innovation.

Don’t miss out—secure your pre-party tickets here and register for the main event at innovate757.org/startupworldcupva. Let’s keep building Hampton Roads as the go-to destination for entrepreneurial excellence. Who’s ready to innovate?

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