Join VEF in collaboration with Venture Labs for a timely discussion exploring how founders are building technologies that serve both commercial markets and critical public needs.

From cleantech, climate technology, and life sciences to crisis communications, emergency management, and critical infrastructure, this conversation will examine the rise of dual-use innovation and how technologies developed for one market can create value across multiple commercial and public-sector applications.

Attendees will gain practical insights into commercialization strategies, government and industry partnerships, investment opportunities, and what it takes to scale technologies with both economic and societal impact.

Your ticket to this event includes admission, light snacks, and a beverage.

Speakers

Speakers will be announced soon.

Moderator

Moderator will be announced soon.

Emcee

Emcee will be announced soon.

Agenda

5:00-6:00pm OPEN NETWORKING

6:00-6:15pm INTROS & WELCOME REMARKS

6:15-6:30pm STARTUP LIGHTNING PITCHES & COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS

6:30-7:30pm PANEL

7:30-8:00pm CLOSING REMARKS & EVENT CONCLUSION

Interested in presenting your business idea, sharing a product launch, or making an ask of the community? Apply to be a lightning pitch presenter. Selected presenters will get 100 seconds to share their product, service, or ask with the community in a supportive environment.

Apply today at https://www.vef.org/pitch

Who Should Attend

• Founders and startup teams
• Investors and venture capital firms
• Corporate innovation leaders
• Government and public-sector organizations
• Emergency management and critical infrastructure professionals
• Accelerators and incubators
• Researchers, faculty, and post-secondary innovation teams
• Professional services firms supporting startups
• Students and emerging entrepreneurs

Register early and save. Ticket prices increase October 12, 2026, so secure your spot before prices go up.

DID YOU KNOW… Members get access to 8 VEF events annually, plus our summer social and annual general meeting included? With options for corporate or individual memberships, there’s never been a better time to join the community. Learn more and sign up: https://www.vef.org/member