The DC Startup and Tech Week 2024, formerly known as DC Startup Week, is back for its ninth year in Washington, D.C. With over 300 speakers and 150 sessions, the event focuses on the transformative potential of AI, featuring keynotes by AI experts and leaders in technology and entrepreneurship.
The opening day of the event saw speakers like Noelle Russell, founder of the AI Leadership Institute; Kathi Vidal, Director of the United States Patent and Trademark Office; and Brandon Andrews, a casting consultant for “Shark Tank.” Russell, a Microsoft AI MVP, discussed how industries are being reshaped by generative and applied AI technologies, emphasizing the risks, challenges, and ethical considerations of AI implementation.
Seema Alexander, the Indian American co-chair of DC Startup & Tech Week, highlighted the far-reaching effects of AI and its rapid impact on business workflows. Drawing parallels to the internet’s transformative power, Alexander urged entrepreneurs to embrace AI as the next technological revolution, emphasizing the importance of adapting to stay competitive in the market.
The event offers a variety of sessions, including panel discussions, investor meetings, fireside chats, and more, providing valuable networking opportunities for attendees. With over 7,000 expected participants, the event features tracks on Early Stage Founders, Growth Stage Founders, Emerging Tech and AI, Government and Innovation, Climate & Sustainability, and more.
One of the highlights of the week is the annual pitch competition, where startup teams pitch their ideas to a panel of judges for a chance to win funding and in-kind services. This year’s competition features startups like Veza Innovations, HR Geckos, Kleenup, and more, showcasing the innovative ideas coming out of the startup community.
Overall, DC Startup and Tech Week 2024 promises to be a valuable event for anyone interested in learning from top founders, investors, and innovators in the tech industry. With a focus on AI and innovation, the event provides a platform for networking, learning, and pitching ideas to drive the future of technology and entrepreneurship.
