Celebrating Innovation in Hampton Roads
Join us for 757 TechNite Presented by JPMorganChase, an evening dedicated to recognizing the remarkable innovation shaping the future of Hampton Roads. This event brings together entrepreneurs, business leaders, technologists, and government officials to celebrate those making a significant impact in the regional tech ecosystem.
Event Details
When: Thursday, October 29
Where: The Dome by Rutter Mills, Virginia Beach, VA
Time: 5:00 – 8:00 PM
Attire: Business Casual
Schedule
4:00 – 5:00 PM: VIP Reception – Sponsors and Nominees
5:00 – 6:30 PM: Cocktails, Heavy hors d’oeuvres & Networking
6:30 – 8:00 PM: Awards Program
Why Attend?
TechNite is the premier event celebrating technology and innovation in Hampton Roads. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, investor, business leader, or student, this is your opportunity to:
- Network with the region’s top tech minds and business leaders.
- Recognize outstanding achievements in innovation and technology.
- Discover cutting-edge companies and emerging startups.
Award Categories
Please nominate as many businesses and individuals as you want. All award winners will be selected by a dedicated committee, whose members are not eligible to receive any of the awards presented.
Dan Bell Innovative Tech Builder Award – Sponsored by Marathon Consulting
Celebrating groundbreaking technology advancements.
Dan Bell was a visionary leader and dedicated community builder who played a pivotal role in shaping the innovation landscape of Hampton Roads. As Vice Chairman of Innovate Hampton Roads and former Chairman of the Hampton Roads Innovation Collaborative, Dan was instrumental in the merger that created the region’s leading entrepreneurial support network. He championed initiatives like Tech Tuesdays, monthly meetups, and the quarterly BIZWHEEL Expos (now Innovate Hampton Roads Venture Out), always striving to bring people together to celebrate innovation and collaboration.
Known for staying late to share insights and connect with others, Dan inspired countless individuals with his belief in the region’s potential and his generosity of time and knowledge. His legacy is one of unity, mentorship, and relentless optimism—a reminder that when we work together, there’s no limit to what our region can achieve.
2026 FINALISTS
Jefferson Lab
NASA Langley Research Center
ReAlta Life Sciences
2025 WINNER: LifeNet
John “Dubby” Wynne Regional Innovation Champion – Sponsored by Williams Mullen
Awarding individuals or organizations fostering regional innovation and economic growth.
John O. “Dubby” Wynne was a visionary leader whose relentless drive and passion for public service left an indelible mark on Virginia and the Hampton Roads region. Best known as the driving force behind the creation and success of The Weather Channel during his tenure as president and CEO of Landmark Communications, Wynne combined bold innovation with strategic execution, transforming a once-dismissed idea into a multibillion-dollar enterprise. Following his retirement in 2001, Wynne devoted himself to civic leadership, co-founding GO Virginia and Reinvent Hampton Roads to foster regional collaboration and economic development.
A Princeton and UVA Law graduate, Wynne was a trusted mentor, board member, and catalyst for growth who believed deeply in the power of private sector leadership to shape a better future. He received numerous accolades, including induction into the Cable Hall of Fame and statewide honors for his impact on public policy and community development. Known for his humility, tenacity, and generosity, Wynne’s legacy lives on through the thousands of lives and jobs he helped uplift.
2026 FINALISTS
Jay Bernas
Nancy Grden
John Lawson
2025 WINNER: Jerry Miller
Entrepreneur of the Year – Sponsored by KPMG
Recognizing an exceptional leader driving innovation and business success.
2026 FINALISTS
Jim Funari, CEO StratusLIVE
Benjamin Hoover, President XKIG & Randolph Hoover, CEO XKIG
Tara Ramsey, President & CEO Instant Systems
2025 WINNER: Jay Livingood, CEO Yellow Dog Software
757CIO Technical Executive of the Year – Sponsored by Bloom Technology Partners
Honoring a technology executive who strategically advances business goals through excellence.
2026 FINALISTS
Robert Steffler
Matthew Lemma
2025 WINNER: Denys Dias
Emerging Company – Sponsored by Eide Bailly
Honoring the company that has emerged on the business stage with an innovation and technology focus, becoming or having become a leader in their field with revenue greater than $1M.
2026 FINALISTS
AREMCO
Iron Sheepdog
Radian Forge
2025 WINNER: Psionic
Technical Achievement in Government – Sponsored by Fulton Bank
Recognizing technological excellence in government operations.
2026 FINALISTS
City of Virginia Beach AI Operations
Mid Atlantic Tech Bridge
City of Chesapeake Information Technology
2025 WINNER: HRSD
Innovation in Education – Sponsored by Old Dominion University
Celebrating advancements in tech or entrepreneurship education.
2026 FINALISTS
The AI Collective Hampton Roads
EdLogics
Karen Sanzo, ODU Center for Education Innovation
WHRO Education
2025 WINNER: The Entrepreneurship and Business Academy at Kempsville High School
Advancement in Defense Contracting – Sponsored by Valor Cybersecurity
Honoring achievements in defense industry innovation.
2026 FINALISTS
C2 Technologies
CORE Services Group
Octaris
Regulus
2025 WINNER: G2Ops
Startup to Watch – Sponsored by REaKTOR
A company with an exciting story and future will be honored as a company that is coming up through the minor leagues, that is close to that major league breakthrough, with revenue less than $1M.
2026 FINALISTS
Index Health Tech
SalesE
VroomBrick
2025 WINNER: Tidal Flight
Tickets and Sponsorships
Reserve your place at the most anticipated technology event in Hampton Roads. Purchase your tickets today.
Become a Sponsor
Show your support for regional innovation by sponsoring 757 TechNite. Learn more about sponsorship opportunities or contact us via email.
To explore sponsorship levels and benefits, download our detailed Sponsorship Prospectus.
Join Us in Celebrating the Future of Innovation
757 TechNite Presented by JPMorganChase is your chance to connect with the region’s vibrant tech community. Be part of an inspiring evening of networking, recognition, and celebration.
Presenting sponsor
Venue sponsor
Award sponsors
Cocktail sponsor
Dinner sponsors
AV/SWAG/Program sponsor
Silver sponsors
Bronze sponsors
