Of the hundreds of events held at Venture Mechanics each year, the Launchpad Expo series is our signature venture conference. A new Expo is held roughly every two weeks, in specific verticals such as AI, ClimateTech/CleanTech, FinTech, Manufacturing Automation, Health Sciences, DefenseTech, AgTech, Web3, Drone/Aerospace, CPG, FireTech, EdTech, and more.

The sequence for a Launchpad Expo event is as follows:

• Startups may begin applying two months prior to the event date, with a deadline of 5 weeks prior to the event date
• The panelists and other assigned judges with expertise in the vertical sector will select the finalists two to three weeks before the event date
• In the final 2-3 weeks the panelists and our staff will work with the five top-ranked startups to go through final due diligence and perfect their pitches
• Up to five semi-finalists will be given the opportunity to have a demo table at the event, without an on-stage presentation

On event day, the format is as follows:

• Doors open at 1:30pm for check-in. Live attendance capped at 100 people. Audience comprised primarily of accredited investors. Livestreaming option may be available for specific events.
• The official program begins at 2:15pm with the conference chair introducing the panelists
• Starting at 2:30 pm, each of the five companies will have a total of a half-hour on stage: a 12-minute pitch followed by an 8-minute Q&A with the panelists and an 8-minute Q&A with the audience
• At the end of the presentations there will be a digital crowdvote for best presentation, and sponsored prizes will be awarded
• Networking reception will begin at 5:15pm. Light dinner and beverages (incl. beer and wine) will be provided. Attendees are welcome to stay for the afterparty, which usually lasts several hours.