Startup Expo

11:00AM-2:00PM

TBD

Experience the cutting edge of entrepreneurship at the Startup Expo, where founders from the Hub’s programs showcase their groundbreaking ventures. The Expo takes place before and after the Innovation Hub’s annual keynote luncheon, allowing attendees to immerse themselves in the latest innovations.

No registration required to attend the Expo. Luncheon attendance requires registration.

Keynote Luncheon

11:30AM-1:00PM

Overton Hotel and Conference Center

From the Final Four to the frontier of artificial intelligence, Matt Mooney’s journey reflects the evolving nature of impact. At the 2026 Discoveries to Impact Keynote Luncheon, Mooney will share how discipline, resilience, and curiosity shaped his path from elite athlete to tech founder—and what it takes to build something that changes the game. Attendees will also have the opportunity to network with Texas Tech Accelerator finalists for the 2026 competition and graduates from the 9th cohort.

Meet Our Keynote!

Investor and Ecosystem Partners Dinner

6:00PM-7:30PM

TBD

The Investor and Ecosystem Partners Dinner is an invitation-only gathering designed to bring together investors, community leaders, and key ecosystem builders for an evening of meaningful connection and strategic conversation. This curated dinner provides a space to showcase the strength and momentum of our innovation community while fostering authentic relationship-building among those shaping the future of entrepreneurship in our region. Guests will engage in thoughtful dialogue around capital access, startup growth, partnership opportunities, and the collective role we play in supporting founders.

Invitation Required to Attend.

Startup Pitch Session # 1

9:00am-10:30am

Texas Tech Innovation Hub

Investors from across Texas will hear from investor-ready startups representing West Texas’ growing innovation ecosystem.

Invitation Required to Attend.

Networking Break

10:30am-11:00am

Texas Tech Innovation Hub

Investors and entrepreneurs will have the chance to network.

Invitation Required to Attend.

Startup Pitch Session # 2

11:00am-12:30pm

Texas Tech Innovation Hub

Investors from across Texas will hear from investor-ready startups representing West Texas’ growing innovation ecosystem.

Invitation Required to Attend.

Founder- Investor Roundtable Lunch

12:30pm-1:30pm

Texas Tech Innovation Hub

Investors and founders are invited to founder roundtables over lunch. Each founder will host a dedicated table, creating space for deeper discussion, follow-up questions, and meaningful relationship building in a relaxed setting. Investors will to connect with multiple companies throughout the lunch to explore alignment and possible next steps.

Invitation Required to Attend.

Texas Tech Accelerator Competition (Day 1)

2:00AM-5:00PM

Texas Tech Innovation Hub

Watch our top finalists compete for a spot in the year-long Texas Tech Accelerator Program! Join the Innovation Hub in cheering on these startup teams as they compete for $40,000 in seed funding, expert mentorship, comprehensive resources, tailored training, and access to our extensive network of alumni, partners, and potential customers.

Event is open to the public, no registration is required.

Undergraduate Research Conference Banquet

Texas Tech Museum

The Center for Transformative Undergraduate Experiences (TrUE) will celebrate their 17th Annual Undergraduate Research Conference with a banquet honoring students, faculty members, and university partners engaged in, advocating for, and supporting undergraduate research initiatives at Texas Tech University.

Invitation Required to Attend.

Texas Tech Accelerator Competition (Day 2)

9:00AM-12:00PM

Texas Tech Innovation Hub

Watch our top finalists compete for a spot in the year-long Texas Tech Accelerator Program! Join the Innovation Hub in cheering on these startup teams as they compete for $40,000 in seed funding, expert mentorship, comprehensive resources, tailored training, and access to our extensive network of alumni, partners, and potential customers.

Event is open to the public, no registration is required.

Texas Tech Accelerator Competition Awards Reception

Two Docs Brewing Co.

5:00PM-7:00PM

Join us as the Texas Tech Innovation Hub unveils the 2026 Accelerator Competition winners! These bold entrepreneurs will walk away with $40,000 in seed funding and a coveted spot in the year-long Accelerator Program—fueling their journey to success. FREE & open to the public—bring your friends, family, and biggest cheer squad! Enjoy free appetizers & an open bar as we celebrate West Texas' brightest startups!