Date:  Thursday, August 27, 2026
Location:  The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research – Danville, VA
Time:  9:00am – 4:30pm

Join entrepreneurs, business owners, innovators, manufacturers, farmers, and community leaders from across Southern Virginia for the 3rd Annual RISE Summit.

This year’s theme, Innovation in Business, Manufacturing, and Agriculture, brings together inspiring speakers, practical workshops, and valuable networking to help you grow your business and discover new opportunities.

Featured Highlights

• Hear Kelsey Robertson, Founder & CEO of TECHnista, share the journey of growing her company from startup to scale-up and why entrepreneurship plays an important role in strengthening the manufacturing economy.
• Join a regional conversation on entrepreneurship, innovation, and economic development, moderated by Kiana Dillard of the West Piedmont Planning District Commission and featuring leaders including Gretchen Clark of Hurt & Profitt.
• Choose from interactive breakout sessions covering:
  • Artificial Intelligence (AI)
  • Cybersecurity in manufacturing and food systems
  • Controlled Environment Agriculture
  • Makerspaces and product development
  • Business growth and other innovation topics

Your Registration Includes

• Full access to keynote presentations and breakout sessions
• Buffet lunch with vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary options
• Complimentary coffee, tea, soft drinks, water, and snacks throughout the day
• Exclusive RISE Summit swag
• Free Wi-Fi
• Networking with entrepreneurs, industry experts, resource partners, and investors from across Southern Virginia

Whether you’re launching a startup, growing an established business, developing new products, or exploring innovative ideas, you’ll leave the RISE Summit with practical strategies, valuable connections, and resources to help move your business forward.

Space is limited. Register today to reserve your seat.

Super Early Bird Rate ($45) – Available now through June 30
Early Bird Rate ($55) – Available July 1 through August 13
Regular Rate ($65) – Available August 14 through August 24

The RISE Grapevine Monthly Virtual Meetup brings together diverse, creative, and inclusive entrepreneurs and ecosystem builders from across Southern Virginia. Each month, the virtual meetup features updates from local and regional entrepreneur support organizations and creates space for learning and connection. Entrepreneurs at all stages are welcome to attend.