A Gathering of Tech Enthusiasts for Groundbreaking Ideas and Partnerships

Tech Jam 2024 in Burlington, Vermont, is set to be the ultimate gathering for technology professionals, entrepreneurs, startups, students, investors, and enthusiasts eager to explore innovation’s future. 

This event, held in the vibrant heart of Vermont’s technology sector, promises to catalyze networking, collaboration, and discovery. 

Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur looking to make connections or a seasoned professional aiming to stay ahead of industry trends, Tech Jam 2024 offers many opportunities to engage, learn, and contribute. 

The event, which features keynotes, panels, workshops, and exhibitions, will provide a platform for participants to share ideas, showcase new products, and explore how technology shapes Vermont’s future.

I. Introduction & Overview

Event Name: 2024 Tech Jam Burlington

Date: October 26, 2024
Location: Burlington, Vermont
Theme: Innovation, Collaboration, and Future Technology
Target Audience: Tech professionals, entrepreneurs, startups, students, investors, and enthusiasts

Event Goals:

• Showcase Local and Regional Tech Innovations: Attendees will have the opportunity to see first-hand the cutting-edge products and ideas emerging from Vermont and the surrounding regions. From startups to established companies, the exhibition will display a wide array of technology innovations that are changing industries and improving lives.
• Foster Networking and Collaboration: Tech Jam encourages collaboration among professionals from various tech sectors by bringing together a diverse group of attendees. This networking potential helps to build meaningful relationships, form business partnerships, and create investment opportunities.
• Promote Growth of Vermont’s Tech Ecosystem: Tech Jam is a platform for demonstrating Vermont’s growing influence in the technology world. With support from local businesses, government, and education sectors, the event aims to bolster the tech ecosystem and inspire more entrepreneurs to launch ventures in Vermont.
• Offer Learning Opportunities: Through workshops, keynotes, and panel discussions, participants will gain valuable insights into the latest trends and challenges in the tech industry. Whether you are new to the world of technology or a veteran looking for fresh perspectives, the learning opportunities at Tech Jam are endless.
• Past TechJam’s events and BCA SEABA

II. Event Structure

The event structure is designed to provide a balanced mix of learning, interaction, and innovation display. 

The schedule includes high-profile keynote sessions, insightful panel discussions, hands-on workshops, and product demonstrations, ensuring every attendee can find value.

A. Keynote Sessions

1. Opening Keynote: Vermont’s Tech Future

The opening keynote will set the tone for the event, offering a comprehensive overview of Vermont’s tech landscape and the trends expected to shape the state’s future. A prominent government or tech leader will discuss Vermont’s technology infrastructure, education, and innovation investments. This session will explore the potential for Burlington to become a tech hub that rivals larger cities with OnLogic. 

South Burlington-based OnLogic, a leader in designing and producing specialized computers, generates over $100 million in annual revenue. 

Cofounder Roland Groeneveld and VP of HR Lauren Lavallee share the story behind the company’s 21-year journey, from its early beginnings to its role as a key player in Vermont’s tech scene, and discuss the exciting opportunities it offers to the next generation of Vermont’s workforce.

2. Closing Keynote: The Role of Innovation in Sustainable Growth

The closing keynote will focus on the critical intersection of innovation and sustainability. As businesses and governments prioritize environmental responsibility, innovation in green technologies becomes paramount. 

An innovation expert or sustainability advocate will share insights into how Vermont’s tech ecosystem can contribute to economic growth and environmental sustainability, highlighting some of the state’s leading green tech companies.

B. Panel Discussions

1. Panel 1: Startups & Innovation
This panel will bring together local entrepreneurs, investors, and startup incubators to discuss Vermont’s thriving startup culture. The discussion will cover startups’ unique challenges, from securing funding to scaling operations and the innovative solutions that have helped Vermont startups succeed. It will provide valuable insights into how entrepreneurs can navigate the ecosystem and leverage Vermont’s support networks to succeed.

2. Panel 2: Tech for Social Good
Tech for social good has been growing in the tech industry, with more companies leveraging their innovations to solve social and environmental challenges. This panel will explore how Vermont-based companies contribute to causes such as healthcare, education, and environmental sustainability. Experts in social impact tech and representatives from nonprofits will discuss the potential of technology to create positive societal change.

C. Workshops & Demos

1. Workshop 1: Building a Tech Startup in Vermont

This workshop will offer a practical guide to launching and growing a tech startup in Vermont. Local entrepreneurs and venture capital (VC) experts will share insights on securing funding, navigating regulations, and tapping into Vermont’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. This session will be invaluable for aspiring tech entrepreneurs who want to learn from those who have successfully built businesses in Vermont.

2. Workshop 2 (Off Site): Introduction to AI & Machine Learning

AI and machine learning are reshaping industries. This introductory workshop will cover the basics of these technologies and their business applications. Attendees will learn how AI can be integrated into their operations to improve efficiency, decision-making, and customer service. The instructor, an expert in AI, will provide real-world examples and demonstrate how companies can harness the power of AI.

3. Product Demos & Showcases
A highlight of Tech Jam 2024 will be the live product demos and showcases. Local tech startups and established companies will be able to present their latest innovations, ranging from software and hardware to apps and wearables. This interactive element allows attendees to engage directly with the products and services being developed in the region.

D. Exhibitor Booths

Exhibitor booths will feature:

• Tech Companies & Startups: Exhibitors will showcase their latest innovations, allowing attendees to see and interact with cutting-edge technology.
• Universities & Educational Programs: Universities and educational programs will display the opportunities available for tech education and research, emphasizing the importance of growing a skilled workforce in Vermont.
• Investors & Incubators: Startups will have the opportunity to network with potential investors and incubators, offering a unique opportunity to attract funding and business development support.

III. Networking Opportunities

Tech Jam is more than just a learning experience—it’s a chance to build lasting connections. 

The event’s networking opportunities will be structured to maximize interactions between entrepreneurs, professionals, and investors.

A. Meet & Greet Sessions

Designated meet-and-greet sessions will provide ample time for attendees to network with tech professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors. 

These informal sessions allow participants to discuss, ask questions, and form new connections.

B. Speed Networking Event

The speed networking event will introduce a fast-paced, fun way for participants to connect. In timed sessions, attendees will have the opportunity to introduce themselves and their projects to others quickly. 

This is an ideal opportunity for entrepreneurs to meet investors and professionals to explore potential collaborations.

C. Startup Pitch Competition

The startup pitch competition will be Tech Jam 2024’s most exciting event. Local startups will compete to pitch their business ideas to a panel of expert judges, including investors, industry leaders, and successful entrepreneurs. 

This competition offers startups exposure, valuable feedback, and the chance to win prizes such as cash awards, mentorship, and potential investment.

IV. Special Focus Areas

Tech Jam 2024 will also focus on critical areas shaping the future of technology and the Vermont tech ecosystem.

A. Diversity & Inclusion in Tech

Promoting diversity in the tech workforce is crucial for innovation and equity. A panel or workshop focused on diversity and inclusion will highlight the challenges and opportunities in creating a more inclusive tech industry. 

Speakers from diverse backgrounds in leadership roles will share their experiences and discuss how Vermont can lead in this area.

B. Vermont’s Green Tech Initiatives

Vermont has long been known for its commitment to sustainability, and its tech sector is no exception. Tech Jam will specialize in green tech initiatives and showcase how local companies contribute to environmental sustainability through innovation. 

Possible partnerships with local government and environmental organizations will highlight Vermont’s leadership in developing green technologies.

V. Sponsorship & Partnerships

Tech Jam 2024 is supported by a network of sponsors and partners that believe in the future of technology in Vermont. 

The event is a community-driven effort to promote innovation and growth from major tech companies to local businesses and educational institutions.

• Platinum Sponsor: UVM Research
• Gold Sponsor: Global Foundries
• Community Partners: Local businesses, government entities, and educational institutions that are invested in Vermont’s tech future.

If your organization is interested in exhibiting, email us at techjam@sevendaysvt.com!

Community Partners

• BETA Technologies
• Data Innovations
• Hula
• GBIC
• GlobalFoundries
• KORE Power & NOMAD
• Marvell
• Myti
• National Life Group
• Northfield Savings Bank
• Norwich University
• UVM Office of the Vice President for Research (OVPR)
• Vermont Technology Council 

VII. Post-Event Follow-Up

Tech Jam doesn’t end with the closing remarks. Post-event activities will ensure that the connections and lessons from the event continue to resonate throughout the tech community.

• Attendee Survey: A survey will be sent to attendees to collect feedback, which will help improve future events.
• Content Distribution: Event highlights, speaker notes, and key takeaways will be shared online, extending the event’s reach and
  Impact.
• Community Engagement: Tech Jam will foster continued community engagement through follow-up meetups and collaborative projects, ensuring the growth of Vermont’s tech ecosystem.

Tech Jam 2024 is poised to be an unforgettable event that showcases the best of Vermont’s tech sector, fosters collaboration, and sparks innovation. 

Whether you are an entrepreneur, a professional, or a tech enthusiast, Tech Jam will provide you with the tools, connections, and inspiration you need to contribute to the future of technology in Vermont.

Initial Observations

I am just coming off an amazing event in Denver called Denver Startup Week. So, I was curious about the TechJam and noticed very little mention of artificial intelligence and machine learning programming at this event. 

After all, the artificial intelligence (AI) market is expected to grow significantly in the coming years, with estimates ranging from $184 billion to $3,680.47 billion by 2030.

MatrixLabX launched several leading-edge AI agents at Denver Startup Week, but the hit was AIContentPad with Branch Models.

AI agents, such as AIContentPad, developed by MatrixLabX, are sophisticated software systems that perform tasks autonomously through advanced machine learning and natural language processing (NLP) capabilities. 

These tools can create, curate, and optimize content with minimal human intervention, making them indispensable in the digital marketing market, which is growing to $400B.