When Philadelphia founders get together at Cherry Street Pier on Oct. 28, the vibe will be more block party than boardroom.
That’s the idea behind Founders Alley, a new startup conference built by entrepreneurs for entrepreneurs. It aims to bring together capital, creativity and community, backed by live music and local flair. Expect fun, networking and honest conversations that reflect Philly’s scrappy innovation culture.
A city on the rise, where founders come together
Philadelphia has emerged as a global startup player. The region ranked No. 13 in the world on Startup Genome’s 2025 report, with the ecosystem fueled by growth in life sciences, AI and advanced manufacturing.
Local founders raised nearly $3.3 billion in venture funding last year, while initiatives such as Gov. Shapiro’s proposed $50 million innovation fund signal broader state support.
That momentum builds on Philly’s mix of top-tier universities (Penn, Drexel, Temple, more!) and lower cost of living than peer hubs, making it an attractive place for startups to plant roots. Founders Alley wants to build on that strong base, as a joint project led by leaders from these local startups:
- Evenda, an AI-driven sponsorship marketplace
- DLAR, a super app for business and VC transactions
- Swiftlane, using AI and Web3 to help artists grow
- On Call CMO, fractional marketing for startups
- Kommunity, my AI-driven marketplace for events, venues, and communities
Together, the founders of these companies share a belief in Philly as a hub for startup growth — and a desire to make the ecosystem more accessible.
What to expect on Oct. 28
For $25, attendees get a full day of panels, networking, mentorship and startup showcases alongside local creative expression.
The event is designed to be approachable, connecting early-stage founders with investors and professionals across the Greater Philadelphia region.
Founders Alley is more than a conference. It’s a movement — a coalition of entrepreneurs, artists, investors and ecosystem builders working to cement Philadelphia’s national reputation as a startup hub.
Startups interested in pitching should submit an inquiry soon (spaces are limited). Whether you’re a founder, funder or just curious, this is a chance to experience entrepreneurship Philly-style: collaborative, resourceful and rooted in community.
Check out the agenda below and reserve your spot today.
11 a.m. – Public art installation opens (Free)
12 p.m. – Registration & lunch
12:30 p.m. – The Fundraising Reality Check
5 founders. 5 lessons. 2 minutes each.
1 p.m. – Investor Insights: Unfiltered
Direct Q&A with 3 active investors + live pitch feedback
1:45 p.m. – The Founder Playbook
Founders who’ve raised $5M+ share what worked
2:30 p.m. – Break & marketplace
2:45 p.m. – The Startup Showcase
6 startups pitch. Investors respond. Winner gets MAC passes.
3:30 p.m. – Building Your Network
Master follow-up, relationships, and warm intros
4:15 p.m. – New Investors on the Block
Meet emerging fund managers actively investing
5 – 7 p.m. – Networking reception
Craft beverages, hors d’oeuvres, and connections
