ConvergeSouth 2026

ConvergeSouth 2026 is poised to be the Southeast's most electric startup event, offering an unparalleled platform for innovation, investment, and networking. Now in its 10th year, this capital summit and startup expo has grown into one of the largest expositions of scalable, investable startups in the region. The event's core mission is to highlight emerging innovation across the Carolinas and the broader Southeast, fostering future deal flow for investors with a keen interest in specific market verticals. Attendees will experience a dynamic environment designed to connect groundbreaking startups with the capital and expertise they need to thrive.

This event is a must-attend for a diverse range of professionals. Entrepreneurs, particularly those from the Southeast on a growth trajectory, will find immense value in the opportunity to meet investors, schedule one-on-one appointments, participate in office hours, and learn from over 80 pitch presentations. Angel and VC Investors will discover an excellent source of deal flow, with 150 exhibiting startups across various sectors. The event also caters to freelancers, consultants, and anyone looking to engage with fast-growing innovation companies, offering extensive networking opportunities through the Whova Conference app. The focus on specific market verticals ensures that connections are targeted and highly relevant.

The conference is meticulously organized into three primary market vertical tracks, each offering two days of programming. Track 1 focuses on HealthTech/BioTech, addressing the latest advancements and investment opportunities in healthcare technology and biotechnology. Track 2 delves into Artificial Intelligence / B2B SaaS, exploring the transformative power of AI and the growth of business-to-business software solutions. Track 3 covers Food / Beverage / Agtech, highlighting innovation in sustainable agriculture, food production, and beverage industries. Each track includes demo tables in the Expo Halls, dedicated pitch stages, insightful keynotes, and workshops led by industry thought leaders, providing a comprehensive and immersive experience.

A significant highlight of ConvergeSouth 2026 is the Startup World Cup Regional Competition, where exhibitors will pitch to compete for a substantial $1,000,000 investment from Pegasus Tech Ventures. This competition not only offers a life-changing opportunity for startups but also provides attendees with a front-row seat to cutting-edge innovations. Beyond the competition, the event features concurrent pitch stages, keynote presentations from influential figures, expert-led office hours for personalized guidance, and one-on-one investor meetings designed to facilitate meaningful connections. The startup expo will showcase over 150 exhibiting companies, creating a vibrant marketplace for discovery and collaboration. Investment firms from across the Southeast will be present, actively seeking their next big opportunity.

Attendees will gain actionable takeaways, invaluable connections, and deep insights into the latest trends and investment landscapes. The structured networking opportunities, facilitated by the Whova app, ensure that participants can maximize their engagement and forge lasting relationships. The event's location in downtown Winston-Salem, NC, adds to its appeal. The primary venues, Biotech Place and Bailey Power Plant in the Innovation Quarter – the largest master-planned, central business district research park in the US – offer a state-of-the-art backdrop. Additionally, 500 West 5th, a downtown tower building vertically stacked with entrepreneurship support resources and home of the Flywheel Foundation, further enhances the event's infrastructure. These venues provide a modern and inspiring environment conducive to innovation and collaboration. ConvergeSouth is produced by Flywheel, in collaboration with Entrepreneurship Support Organizations (ESOs) in Central North Carolina, underscoring its commitment to fostering a healthy and resilient entrepreneurship ecosystem.