Returning for its third year, Innovation Weekend is 1Philadelphia’s tech and entrepreneurship conference, dedicated to celebrating diversity and equity within our tech community. This year's theme, UNBOUND, invites participants to move beyond traditional frameworks and create new approaches to learning and doing that help us realize real impact for all people that want to be involved in the tech and innovation sectors.
Innovation Weekend 2024 was an incredible event marked by groundbreaking ideas, impactful discussions, and meaningful connections in the heart of Philadelphia. This year, we aimed higher, gathering a diverse group of innovators from across the nation to engage in pivotal conversations about the future of technology and entrepreneurship.
“It was an incredible experience to be surrounded by so many forward-thinkers and innovators, all passionate about shaping the future of tech in our city. [...] It was inspiring to see so many local leaders sharing their vision for Philadelphia’s role in the tech industry. I left with a renewed sense of purpose and new ideas on how to contribute to the growing tech community. [...] I can’t wait to see how we can all work together to drive innovation in Philly!” - Antonio A.
This remarkable event attracted over 400 attendees and featured three days of exciting activities and over 40 inspiring speakers. It was a celebration of the diversity within our tech community and a look ahead, as we continue to drive momentum towards change.
Innovation Awards
The weekend began on Thursday night at the W Philadelphia with the annual Innovation Awards, a lively event celebrating the accomplishments of those driving change in Philadelphia's tech industry. Our winners, recognized for their groundbreaking contributions, set the stage for an impactful weekend. “The [1PHL Innovation Awards] was an inspiring reminder of the power of community, collaboration, and equity in building a vibrant tech ecosystem," said attendee Audrey G.
Congratulations to our Winners:
- Next Gen Award: FirstHand
- Advocate for Equity: Stephanie Humphrey
- Collaboration for Equity Award: Mentor Connect
- Community Cultivator: Latinas in Tech Philadelphia
“Cheers to the incredible winners and nominees of the 1Philadelphia Innovation Awards! What a night to celebrate Philly’s brightest minds and most impactful doers. So many friends, colleagues and familiar faces in the room - proof that Philly’s tech talent pool is deep...Here’s to the innovators who make Philly proud and to the continued growth of our tech community!” - Ayanna L.
Innovation Summit
The cornerstone of Innovation Weekend, the 1PHL Innovation Summit was another standout for the weekend. This day-long conference offered participants valuable insights from regional thought leaders on emerging themes such as tech education, talent development, entrepreneurship, venture capital, workforce development, and more.
“The 1PHL Innovation Summit is the most inspiring event I have [attended] in the Philadelphia ecosystem. The leaders, the insight, the real talk, energizes me when system seems impenetrable, excites me when the world serves me caution and dread. 1PHL shines the light on the communities and leaders that are here for each other - and together we can create a future we believe in. Bravo!” - Franscesa A.
By focusing on two main areas of the tech and innovation sector, the Innovation Summit split into two tracks of programming - Ecosystem and Entrepreneurship. Each series of panels brough insightful conversations from leaders in the field. With over 40 speakers, the summit addressed both challenges and opportunities, inspiring us to continue striving for tech equity within our ecosystem and beyond.
Building Community & Connections
The 1Philadelphia community came together for Innovation Weekend, drawn by the insights, celebrations, and, most importantly, the connections. Providing diverse networking opportunities for the Philly tech scene to connect and foster collaboration is one of our top priorities, and Innovation Weekend embodied this mission.
“1Philadelphia Innovation Weekend 2024 was a powerhouse of inspiration and connections..” - Daniel M.
From partying on the rooftop of the W Philadelphia at the Kickoff to wrapping up the weekend with reflection and community at the Brunch, these events offered invaluable opportunities for participants to expand their networks and engage with peers who share a common vision for an advancing tech community.
Making an Impact
Innovation Weekend 2024 was more than just a conference; it was a catalyst for change, sparking new ideas and collaborations that have the potential to transform the tech landscape in Philadelphia and beyond. This year's event underscored the importance of embracing diversity, fostering equity, and empowering every voice in the innovation ecosystem. As we look to the future, we are reminded of the collective power of our community to effect meaningful change. We invite each participant to harness the energy and insights gained during the weekend to drive progress in their own spheres of influence. Together, we have the opportunity to build a tech community that is not only cutting-edge but also inclusive and accessible for all. Let's continue to challenge the status quo and create a future that truly reflects the dynamic and diverse talent at Philadelphia's core.
_________
Want to learn more about 1Philadelphia? Visit our website and follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram.
Innovation Weekend was made possible through generous support from the following sponsors dedicated to supporting our work: Comcast NBCUniversal, Halloran Philanthropies, Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment, PHL Most Diverse Tech Hub, Chamber of Commerce of Greater Philadelphia, Morgan Lewis, Withum, Seer Interactive, The Fitler Club, University City Science Center, Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Southeastern Pennsylvania, Campus Philly, PACT, Firstrust Bank, Penn Medicine, BakerTilly, Klehr Harrison Harvey Branzburg LLP
