10 tech and startup events to jump start your 2025

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The new year brings with it new opportunities, and the tech community is starting off 2025 strong with a diverse lineup of events to help you learn, connect and get inspired.

Whether you’re a seasoned technologist, a startup founder or a curious learner, January offers plenty of chances to explore emerging trends, develop your skills and network with leaders and peers. From pitch workshops to cybersecurity webinars to industry-specific info sessions, here’s a rundown of notable events this month.

Check out the links below and browse the Technical.ly company directory for more info on the host orgs, and for more local tech community events (or to promote your own), visit Technical.ly’s Events board.

Tuesday, Jan. 14

• 1Philadelphia Winter Meetup — “Don’t miss this chance to expand your network and gain valuable insights while enjoying the atmosphere of the Triple Bottom Brewing. Join us for the next 1PHL Meetup on January 14th. Grab a drink, network with other technologists, and most importantly make connections!” Hosted by 1Philadelphia.
• TEDCO’s DefTech Monthly Office Hours — “Come to the office hours to discuss how DefTech can support your business by leveraging cutting-edge technology, facilities, equipment, and expertise found in the Maryland Department of Defense Labs.” Hosted by TEDCO.

Wednesday, Jan. 15

• PCI Open Office Hours at Penn Engineering — “Come to office hours to chat with Technology Licensing Officers from PCI. Walk in between 11am and 1pm or set up an appointment by emailing mffrabot@upenn.edu or calling (215) 746 7179.” Hosted by Penn Center for Innovation.
• PitchMasters — “At this virtual, workshop-style event, companies seeking to become ‘pitch-perfect’ will present their investor decks to the group and receive feedback to help refine their pitch before they go in front of investors. This is a great opportunity for companies to get ready for that ‘ask.’ Founders receive 6 minutes to pitch and 5 minutes of feedback.” Hosted by NEXT powered by Shulman Rogers.

Thursday, Jan. 16

• My NEXT Raise Partner Webinar: Turn Ideas Into Action with Strategic Foresight — “Let’s say you have an idea, vision or goal. So, you need a strategy to get there. But what do you do first? That’s where Strategic Foresight comes in — it’s the piece between vision and tactics. It’s a skill and a way of thinking that combines creativity and analysis to help turn ideas into action. Strategic Foresight can help you understand trends and how they intersect to anticipate possible changes in your industry and identify new opportunities. It can help you find your direction for a new business or initiative, decide if and when to pivot your business and improve your ability to assess how well your business is positioned to adapt to future changes. Learning strategic foresight skills can help you adapt to change, inspire confidence and foster resilience.” Hosted by NEXT powered by Shulman Rogers.

Thursday, Jan. 23

• PCI Open Office Hours at Penn Engineering — “Come to office hours to chat with Technology Licensing Officers from PCI. Walk in between 11am and 1pm or set up an appointment by emailing mffrabot@upenn.edu or calling (215) 746 7179.” Hosted by Penn Center for Innovation.
• Cybersecurity 360: Strengthening Your Business and Personal Digital Defenses — “In our interconnected world, cyber and information security risks and threats are ever-present, and can have a serious impact on users and workplaces. As we kick off the new year, business leaders must act toward safeguarding personal and business information. Join Withum’s Cyber and Information Security Practice Leader, Edward Keck Jr., and Manager, Julie Tracy, for an interactive webinar covering simple steps to protect you and your business.” Hosted by Withum.

Wednesday, Jan. 29

• TEDCO’s Investment Open Forum — “Come to the Open Forum to discuss topics related to venture capital investing and learn more about the TEDCO Investment Funds.” Hosted by TEDCO.

Thursday, Jan. 30

• Futures Without Guns Documentary Screening — “Join us for a night of conversation and connection as we present a private screening of the Futures Without Guns short film documentary, by filmmaker Kyra Knox. This film explores the creative processes and the inspirations of the artists in the Science Center’s 2024 Futures Without Guns speculative art exhibition.” Hosted by University City Science Center.
• PCI Open Office Hours at Penn Engineering — “Come to office hours to chat with Technology Licensing Officers from PCI. Walk in between 11am and 1pm or set up an appointment by emailing mffrabot@upenn.edu or calling (215) 746 7179.” Hosted by Penn Center for Innovation.

Looking to get out more in your local tech community? Explore the Technical.ly company directory to learn about orgs making moves in the ecosystem and the Technical.ly Events Board to find opportunities to connect.