After more than a decade, 757 TechNite returned to Hampton Roads to honor the region’s innovation and entrepreneurship. On October 9 at the Chrysler Museum, the event celebrated the incredible talent, vision, and impact of companies and individuals shaping the region’s thriving ecosystem.
Innovate Hampton Roads are proud to announce the winners of nine awards, recognizing those who are driving growth, innovation, and collaboration in Hampton Roads:
- Startup to Watch – Tidal Flight
Sponsored by REaKTOR – Highlighting a company with an exciting story poised for major growth and success. https://www.tidalflight.com/ - Technical Achievement in Government – HRSD
Sponsored by COX – Recognizing technological excellence in government operations. https://www.hrsd.com/ - Advancement in Defense Contracting – G2Ops
Sponsored by Valor Cybersecurity – Honoring achievements in defense industry innovation. https://g2-ops.com/
- Innovation in Education – The Entrepreneurship and Business Academy at Kempsville High School
Sponsored by ODU – Celebrating advancements in tech or entrepreneurship education. https://kempsvillehs.vbschools.com/entrepreneurship-business - 757CIO Technical Executive of the Year – Denys Diaz
Sponsored by Bluewave – Honoring a technology executive who strategically advances business goals through IT excellence. https://www.townebank.com/ - Emerging Company – Psionic
Sponsored by Wall Einhorn & Chernitzer – Recognizing a company emerging as a leader through innovation and technology. https://www.psionicnav.com/ - Entrepreneur of the Year – Jay Livingood
Sponsored by KPMG – Recognizing an exceptional leader driving innovation and business success. https://www.yellowdogsoftware.com/ - Dan Bell Innovative Tech Builder Award – LifeNet
Sponsored by Marathon Consulting – Celebrating groundbreaking technology advancements and honoring the legacy of Dan Bell, a visionary leader whose dedication to mentorship, collaboration, and regional innovation continues to inspire Hampton Roads. https://www.lifenethealth.org/ - John “Dubby” Wynne Regional Innovation Champion – Jerry Miller
Sponsored by Williams Mullen – Awarding individuals or organizations fostering regional innovation and economic growth while honoring the legacy of John “Dubby” Wynne, whose leadership and vision transformed the region and created lasting opportunities. https://millergrpva.com/who-we-are/jerry-miller
The event also celebrated over 30 finalists, showcasing the breadth of talent and innovation across Hampton Roads. From startups to established leaders, these individuals and companies demonstrate that the region’s innovation ecosystem is thriving.
In addition to the awards, attendees were introduced to two exciting initiatives:
- State of Innovation Address: A new annual event that will provide insights into the current state and future direction of innovation in Hampton Roads. Stay tuned for more details in the coming months.
- IHR 200: Announced as a major initiative for 2026, the “IHR 200” will spotlight 200 organizations making significant contributions to the region’s innovation landscape. More information will be shared as the initiative develops.
757 TechNite 2025 was more than an awards night—it was a reminder that innovation, collaboration, and visionary leadership are alive and well in Hampton Roads. Congratulations to all the winners and finalists for their outstanding contributions to the region!
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