Philly Tech Week and beyond: 29 mid-Atlantic tech community events in May

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Every May, technologists, entrepreneurs and ecosystem leaders come from all over the country to celebrate Philly Tech Week — but that’s not all the month holds. There’s a full slate of virtual and in-person gatherings across the mid-Atlantic to keep you busy through Memorial Day.

Whether you’re a founder seeking resources for your startup, a tech professional trying to learn new skills or a curious connector looking to build your network, you’ll find what you need in this roundup.

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.

Monday, May 5

• Brunch and Business: AANHPI Leadership and Their Unyielding Resilience — “Join Arlington Economic Development’s BizLaunch team for an inspiring event — Brunch and Business: AANHPI Leadership and Their Unyielding Resilience — that honors the grit, passion and resilience of Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) small business owners who turned dreams into reality — right here in our community. The event takes place on Monday, May 5, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Hyatt Regency Crystal City, located at 2799 Richmond Highway, Arlington, VA.” Hosted by Arlington Economic Development.
• 1PHL Spring 2025 Exchange — “The Spring 2025 Exchange is a gathering of leaders focused on shaping the future of digital access, education and entrepreneurship in Philadelphia. Hosted at the historic Franklin Institute, this event will showcase current research, highlight impactful policies, and explore the latest developments in Philly’s innovation ecosystem. The day will culminate in a vibrant reception to officially kick off Philly Tech Week, providing an ideal space to connect, celebrate, and envision what’s next for Philadelphia’s tech community.” Hosted by 1Philadelphia.
• PTW25 Kickoff Party — “Get ready to kick off the 15th annual Philly Tech Week presented by Comcast! Join us for an unforgettable evening of connection and collaboration in the iconic Franklin Institute rotunda. This free happy hour is the perfect opportunity to meet local innovators, exchange ideas, and build meaningful professional relationships. Whether you’re a startup founder, tech enthusiast, or industry veteran, you’ll find this vibrant gathering to be an inspiring start to an incredible week. Don’t miss out on the chance to engage with Philadelphia’s dynamic tech ecosystem in one of the city’s most stunning venues! DJ Diamond Kuts will back to help us bring the energy to this year’s Kickoff Party.” Hosted by 1Philadelphia.
• Health Sciences Sprint Final Showcase — “Join us to view the final project presentations of the first ever high school group to complete the Health Sciences Sprint! After working with mentors from a variety of healthcare fields such as physicians, physician assistances, nurses, nutrition experts, physical therapists, mental health counselors, and more, students have developed their very own health action plans for the community.” Hosted by University City Science Center.

Tuesday, May 6

• Philly Tech Week: Innovate & Inspire: Research Panel & Pitch Competition — “Join PCI, PACT and Pennovation Works at our annual Philly Tech Week program on May 6, where groundbreaking research meets entrepreneurial vision. This dynamic event will feature a distinguished research panel showcasing cutting-edge discoveries from Penn’s brightest minds, followed by an exciting pitch competition, where innovators present their ideas to a panel of experts and investors.” Hosted by Penn Center for Innovation.
• Pulse Check: Health Tech Trends Shaping the Next Decade — “This session brings together founders, funders, and practitioners to explore the most significant trends driving innovation in health tech. From AI and personalized care to equitable access and new funding models, we’ll examine what’s emerging, what’s sticking, and what it means for the future of healthcare. Get insights from every corner of the ecosystem as we chart the course for the next decade of impact.” Hosted by University City Science Center.

Wednesday, May 7

• AI at the Crossroads: Ethics, Innovation and Impact — “As part of Philly Tech Week and AI Month, this panel explores the balance between cutting-edge AI advancements and responsible development, with a focus on the broader societal impact of artificial intelligence.” Hosted by Penn Center for Innovation.
• Unlocking Federal Opportunities in 2025: Navigating Market Disruption — “Join GrantExec LLC and Arlington Consulting Group on May 7, 2025, from 10:30 to 11:30 AM for an insightful webinar designed for government contractors and grantseekers. This event will provide a deep dive into the current federal market landscape, examining major economic disruptions, budget cuts, and the emerging opportunities that can help your organization thrive in a rapidly evolving environment.” Hosted by Arlington Economic Development.
• PCI Ventures Office Hours with Yi-Yen Chen (Virtual) — “Meet virtually with a member of the PCI Ventures team to discuss your business questions on topics ranging from company formation and legal agreements to benefits and insurance.” Hosted by Penn Center for Innovation.
• Healthcare M&A: Current Market Trends and Transaction Considerations — “Healthcare M&A activity is expected to heat up in 2025, with deal volumes and values showing potential signs of acceleration. However, this optimism could be tempered by uncertainties stemming from tariffs and the broader macroeconomic environment. The imposition of new tariffs has introduced significant unpredictability, which could lead to more cautious deal-making in the short term. Join Withum’s Healthcare and Valuation Services Teams, Michael Ritchie, Taylor Burns, and Chris Marrs for an insightful discussion on the latest market trends and key considerations for those exploring transactions in the healthcare space. This webinar is tailored for healthcare professionals, business operators, and investors seeking the knowledge and strategies to confidently navigate the evolving market landscape.” Hosted by Withum.

Thursday, May 8

• Technical.ly Builders Conference 2025 — “The Technical.ly Builders Conference is an annual two-day conference focused on local ecosystem building and the storytelling that supports it. Hosted by the country’s leading ecosystem storytelling news organization, Builders brings together entrepreneurs, ecosystem builders and those that support local entrepreneurial and tech-led economic and workforce development strategies.” Hosted by Technical.ly.
• Innovation to Impact: Collaborating with Health Systems in Greater Philadelphia — “Healthcare systems are complex organizations with unique operational needs, regulatory requirements, and adoption challenges. Bringing healthcare innovations to market – and into the hands of clinicians and patients – requires more than just a great product. It demands strategic alignment with the needs and operations of health systems, a clear understanding of the regulatory and reimbursement landscapes, and access to resources and opportunities. The discussion will highlight accelerator programs in the ecosystem like Science Center’s U.S. Market Access and Capital Readiness programs help international and early-stage startup companies scale successfully in the U.S. healthcare market.” Hosted by University City Science Center.
• Keys to Success in Incident Response — “Every year, the threat actors that attack companies get more creative. Our team will discuss global trends that are defining the incident response landscape in 2025 and how to deal with these difficult crisis situations.” Hosted by Morgan Lewis.

Tuesday, May 13

• 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, May 14

• 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.
• Hot Privacy and Data Security Issues on the Hill — “This webinar will cover recent privacy and data security developments on Capitol Hill and at the US Federal Communications Commission and US Federal Trade Commission.” Hosted by Morgan Lewis.

• Beyond the Hype: Building a Practical Path to AI Success — “AI has the potential to transform businesses but not without a solid foundation. Too often, organizations chase the latest AI tools or use cases without first addressing the basics: securing buy-in and getting their data in order. This ‘shiny object syndrome’ leads to stalled projects, compliance headaches and missed opportunities. In this webinar, we’ll break down why AI initiatives falter and how to avoid common pitfalls. We’ll share a clear, step-by-step approach that begins with small, high-impact quick wins to build momentum before tackling AI at a larger scale within your organization.” Hosted by Withum.

Thursday, May 15

• Regulatory Considerations for AI in MedTech — “As artificial intelligence continues to revolutionize the medical technology industry, navigating the evolving regulatory landscape is crucial for success. This webinar will provide insights into key regulatory considerations for AI-driven medical devices, including FDA requirements, risk assessment, validation strategies, and emerging global regulatory trends. Join Jennifer Palinchik and Fehmida Kapadia as they discuss best practices for bringing AI-powered MedTech innovations to market while ensuring safety, efficacy, and compliance. Whether you’re a startup, an established MedTech company, or a regulatory professional, this session will equip you with the knowledge to navigate regulatory challenges effectively.” Hosted by Ampilfy MedTech and sponsored by TEDCO.
• Baltimore Region Investment Summit — “The Baltimore Region is making bold, game-changing investments shaping the future of business, innovation, and economic development. With over $4.4 billion in economic activity in 2024, the region is growing into a premier hub for cutting-edge technology, advanced manufacturing and supply chain, and infrastructure investment. As one of 31 federally designated Tech Hubs, the Baltimore Region is also actively unlocking new biotechnology and artificial intelligence frontiers. The region is witnessing significant real estate and corporate investment activity, transforming its skyline, workforce, and global competitiveness. If you are expanding or relocating your business, or are an investor, the Baltimore Region Investment Summit is exactly where you need to be.” Hosted by Greater Baltimore Committee and sponsored by TEDCO.

Tuesday, May 20

• Launch Your Dream Business: Life After Government — “You’ve dedicated your career to government service. Your commitment and expertise go beyond job titles — past, present and future. Whether you’re exploring new career paths, considering entrepreneurship, or thinking about consulting, your expertise has value in more ways than one. Join SCORE, Arlington County’s BizLaunch, Arlington Employment Center, and Arlington Public Library to learn the key elements you need to have and the many low-cost services available to you.” Hosted by Arlington Economic Development.
• Tech Ecosystem Conference — “The About That Life Tech Ecosystem Conference, sponsored by JPMorgan Chase, is exclusively for young adults ages 18-24 who live in Wilmington, Delaware and are under/unemployed (earning less than $40k annually), not enrolled in college or a tech training program, not enlisted in the military, and are looking to build a better future for themselves. The goal of the conference is to develop a motivated group of Aspiring Tech Professionals and ensure they have the tools and access to training to succeed in Delaware’s tech ecosystem. This free-of-cost one-day event features inspiring guest speakers, panel discussions and tech industry conversations, life skills workshops, resource booths, networking opportunities, refreshments, and much more!” Hosted by Tech Council of Delaware.
• Cybersecurity Risks Associated with Remote Work and the Regulatory Guidance — “Remote work adds additional complexity to the cyber risks that continue to emerge and present challenges to businesses across industries. We will discuss these risks and common recommendations for risk reduction.” Hosted by Morgan Lewis.

Wednesday, May 21

• PCI Ventures Office Hours with Bhavana Mohanraj (Virtual) — “Meet virtually with a member of the PCI Ventures team to discuss your business questions on topics ranging from company formation and legal agreements to benefits and insurance.” Hosted by Penn Center for Innovation.

Wednesday, May 28

• 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.
• PCI Ventures Office Hours with Melisa Lopez-Anton (Virtual) — “Meet virtually with a member of the PCI Ventures team to discuss your business questions on topics ranging from company formation and legal agreements to benefits and insurance.” Hosted by Penn Center for Innovation.

Thursday, May 29

• Virtual Rocket Pitch + Power Networking by CONNECTpreneur — “CONNECTpreneur Virtual Rocket Pitch events are the World’s Largest investor pitch events, with the greatest number of accredited investors, VCs, private investors and angels. This will be our 131st event (65th Virtual) over the last 14 years. CONNECTpreneur is a bi-monthly networking mashup that has been attended by 30,000+ business leaders over the past 14 years. Our events are cited as “The Best Networking Events in the MidAtlantic” by independent media as well as over 70% of surveyed past attendees.” Hosted by CONNECTpreneur with partnership from NEXT powered by Shulman Rogers. 
• Online Digital Safety and Content Moderation: Developing Frameworks in the EU, UK, and US — “We will discuss the continuing focus of governments and regulatory agencies globally on the new era of ‘active’ online digital safety and content moderation, including analysis of changes in law and regulation that will impact technology industry stakeholders around the world.” Hosted by Morgan Lewis.
• Maximizing IP in Challenging Times — “As we navigate the complexities of 2025, staying ahead in intellectual property law means understanding both the challenges and opportunities presented by evolving regulations and technological advancements. Join us for a panel discussion featuring Ballard Spahr’s very own Brian LaCorte, Andrea Stone, and Drew Hensley. Andrea and Drew, both seasoned patent lawyers, will delve into strategies for protecting and monetizing your IP assets and offer invaluable insights into the latest government changes impacting IP.” Hosted by Ballard Spahr.

Friday, May 30

• Founders Q&A with Anthony Millin — “An open session for founders to ask serial entrepreneur, venture capital partner, startup attorney, and Founder of NEXT powered by Shulman Rogers Anthony Millin questions about launching and growing a company.” Hosted by NEXT powered by Shulman Rogers.

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.