Eighteen months ago, Paul Hirschbiel and John Paris were reflecting on the growth of Hampton Roads when a realization struck them: a once-prominent event, TechNite, had not been held in more than a decade. “The innovation ecosystem in Hampton Roads has exploded in size since TechNite went away many years ago, so it is clearly time to celebrate!” says Paul Hirschbiel.
The pair began to envision how they could bring the event back, this time under the Innovate Hampton Roads (IHR) umbrella. Previously managed by the Hampton Roads Technology Council, TechNite had once showcased regional innovation. Now, with IHR emerging from the merger of StartWheel and the Hampton Roads Innovation Collaborative (HRIC, the former tech council), the timing felt perfect. They pitched the idea to Tim Ryan, IHR’s executive director, who immediately gave his enthusiastic support. A committee was formed, tasked with not only resurrecting the annual celebration but making it a true showcase of the region’s entrepreneurial and technological prowess.
Bringing the event back was one challenge; funding it was another. JPMorganChase quickly stepped forward as a sponsor. Geoff Hart, Executive Director at J.P. Morgan Private Bank, explained, “Technology and innovation drive economic growth, and we see this in particular in the Hampton Roads region. Partnering with community leaders to support TechNite to recognize technological achievement across the local ecosystem is important to showcase the local economy’s success and to continue to attract capital, people, and resources to the region.” With JPMorganChase’s support, the event was ready to make its triumphant return.
757 TechNite celebrates nine awards, including Startup to Watch, Entrepreneur of the Year, and Advancement in Defense Contracting, alongside honorary awards recognizing two local icons: John “Dubby” Wynne and Dan Bell.
John “Dubby” Wynne was a visionary leader whose passion for innovation and public service transformed both business and community in Virginia. As president and CEO of Landmark Communications, he spearheaded the creation of The Weather Channel, turning a once-dismissed idea into a multibillion-dollar enterprise. After retiring, he co-founded GO Virginia and Reinvent Hampton Roads, leaving a lasting legacy of regional collaboration, economic growth, and mentorship.
Dan Bell was a dedicated community builder who helped shape Hampton Roads’ innovation ecosystem. As Vice Chairman of Innovate Hampton Roads and former Chairman of the Hampton Roads Innovation Collaborative, he championed initiatives like Tech Tuesdays and BIZWHEEL Expos, fostering collaboration and entrepreneurship across the region. Before his work in the community, Dan was an early Apple employee and an executive at Canon VA. Remembered for his generosity, mentorship, and optimism, his legacy continues to inspire unity and innovation.
“Through the awards that will be given out, 757 TechNite will show off the successful companies and individuals in our ecosystem, and success always breeds success!” Hirschbiel notes. Over 100 nominations poured in, with 30 finalists set to be celebrated on October 9 at the Chrysler Museum.
John Paris reflects on the significance of the event: “TechNite rocked, it was big, it honored our best. How could we NOT bring it back? TechNite reaches a broad cross-section of talent in our innovation ecosystem, touching some areas that are often overlooked. Not anymore.”
With the return of 757 TechNite, innovation and entrepreneurship in Hampton Roads are no longer quietly thriving—they are being celebrated and elevated. The message is clear: We have arrived.
Join us on October 9 at the Chrysler Museum from 6:00–9:00 PM for 757 TechNite, the region’s premier celebration of innovation and entrepreneurship.
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