The Launchpad Expo series is Venture Mechanics’ signature venture conference, showcasing startups from a range of verticals—AI, ClimateTech, Aerospace/Drone, Consumer/CPG, FinTech, Manufacturing Automation, Health Sciences, DefenseTech, AgTech/FireTech, Web3, PropTech, InsureTech, EdTech, and more.

Each Launchpad Expo features 10 presenting startups selected by sector experts.  Five first-round presenting companies will each receive 28 minutes on stage - 12 minutes to pitch, 8 minutes of judges Q&A, and 8 minutes of audience Q&A - plus a dedicated demo table at the afterparty.  Another five, second-round of companies will each present a shorter 3-minute pitch with 3 minutes of Q&A, and also receive their own demo table at the afterparty.

Selection Process for Presenting Companies:

- Startups may begin applying two months prior to the event date, with a deadline of 4 weeks prior to the event date.
- Judges with expertise in the sector will select 5 first round and 5 second round presenting companies two to three weeks before the event date.
- In the final 2-3 weeks the judges and our staff will work with the presenting companies to perfect their pitches.  

Day of Event Agenda:

- Doors open at 1:00pm for check-in. The audience is comprised primarily of accredited early-stage investors.
- The official program begins at 2:00pm with the conference chair introducing a discussion panel or keynote speaker.
- Starting at 2:30 pm, 1st-round finalists will have 30-min on stage: 12-min pitch, 8-min Q&A with the judges, 8-min Q&A with the audience.
- At the end of the presentations there will be a digital crowd vote for best presentation, and sponsored prizes will be awarded.
- Afterwards, the 2nd-round finalists will have 3 minutes to present, with 3 minutes of Q&A with the judges.
- The event will wrap with a lively afterparty, during which time investors will be able to visit with all ten finalists at their demo tables.
- Light dinner and adult beverages will be served.

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