Launch Dayton Startup Week returns to downtown Dayton September 15–17
July 28, 2026
Launch Dayton Startup Week returns to downtown Dayton September 15–17 with three days of expert speakers, educational sessions, expanded networking opportunities, and new programming for entrepreneurs and small business owners.
Launch Dayton Startup Week, presented by Fifth Third Bank and Winsupply, returns to The Hub Powered by PNC Bank in downtown Dayton September 15–17, bringing together entrepreneurs, founders, small business owners, and innovators from across the region for three days of education, networking, and business growth.
Organized by Launch Dayton and Entrepreneurs’ Center (EC), Startup Week is the Dayton region’s largest annual conference for entrepreneurs. Whether you’re launching your first business, growing an established company, or simply looking to connect with other entrepreneurs, Startup Week offers practical insights, valuable relationships, and the resources to help move your business forward.
Grow With the Flow
This year’s theme, Grow With the Flow, encourages entrepreneurs to embrace change, adapt to new opportunities, and continue building momentum no matter where they are in their entrepreneurial journey.
Attendees can choose from more than 30 educational sessions covering marketing, funding, leadership, technology, artificial intelligence, operations, sales, and business strategy. Expanded networking opportunities throughout the conference will also make it easier than ever to connect with fellow entrepreneurs, mentors, investors, and resource partners.
Who Should Attend Launch Dayton Startup Week?
Whether you’re exploring a new business idea, growing a startup, or leading an established small business, Startup Week offers practical education, valuable connections, and actionable insights for every stage of entrepreneurship.
What’s New in 2026
This year’s conference introduces several new experiences for attendees.
For the first time, the Miami Valley Small Business Development Center (SBDC) will host a dedicated educational track featuring practical sessions shaped by the trends, challenges, and opportunities SBDC advisors encounter while working with local Main Street businesses.
Startup Week will also conclude on September 17 with a Closing Celebration, giving attendees one final opportunity to come together before receiving exclusive early access to the Startup Showcase. There, attendees will meet innovative founders from EC and SBDC communities before the showcase opens to the public.
Featured Speakers
More than 30 founders, business leaders, and industry experts will share practical advice and real-world experiences throughout Startup Week.
Featured speakers include:
- Jelani Johnson, Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce
- Andrew White, Indigo Life Media
- Eric Neely, Dayton Development Coalition
- Algis Aukstuolis, The Ohlmann Group
- Val Beerbower, Sinclair Community College
- Jon Powell, Christopher & Mae Design Company
…and dozens more founders, business leaders, and industry experts from across the Dayton region.
“The future of Dayton’s economy will be shaped by the entrepreneurs building businesses today,” said Scott Koorndyk, President of Entrepreneurs’ Center. “Startup Week is where those founders come together to exchange ideas, build meaningful relationships, and gain momentum to move their businesses forward. When entrepreneurs succeed, our entire community benefits.”
Why You Should Attend Launch Dayton Startup Week
Launch Dayton Startup Week is free and open to entrepreneurs at every stage—from those exploring a new business idea to founders leading established companies.
Register today, explore the full schedule, and start building your personalized Startup Week experience.
