What is the Southeast Venture Showcase?
The Southeast Venture Showcase is a transformational event that empowers research universities and federal laboratories across the Southeast to showcase their most promising technology ventures for the nation’s venture community. This exclusive showcase is where investors and early-stage technology ventures come together to accelerate the productization of cutting-edge research outcomes that drive real-world impact and create stakeholder value.
Who is attending the Southeast Venture Showcase?
Attendees will include:
- 20–30 of the Southeast’s top research institutions
- 150+ angel, venture, and other strategic investors from around the world
- Selected guests from the Southeast regional innovation ecosystem
Who are the participating research institutions?
The Southeast Venture Showcase brings together leading research institutions and federal laboratories from across the Southeast. For a full list of institutions that participated in SVS 2026, please visit the SVS 2026 Highlights page.
When and where is the event?
SVS 2027 will take place Thursday, April 15, 2027, at the National Museum of African American Music in Nashville, Tennessee.
What is the format of the event?
SVS 2027 will be a highly curated, full-day startup showcase. Selected teams will give live pitches, and the event will feature investor panels, startup demo booths, and numerous opportunities for networking.
Who organizes the event?
A coalition of the Southeast’s most prestigious research universities organizes the Showcase.
How many startups will participate?
SVS 2027 will bring together 60 of the region’s top startups. Of those, 48 will present in one of two startup showcase rooms, while 12 additional startups will participate through demos and networking opportunities.
What are the eligibility requirements for the startup applicants?
Final eligibility will be determined by the academic committee. The target company is one that is investible; attributes of an investible company include:
- Secured a license or option with the affiliated university, or is in negotiations for a license or option
- Has at least one non-university-employed employee (aka, a business lead beyond the PI)
- Has a business concept that has received and survived external vetting (from TTO or from outside the university)
What is the cost to attend the Showcase?
Registration costs $200 for all attendees. Participants are responsible for their own travel, lodging, and other associated costs.
