We’ve almost reached the end of 2025, but there are still chances to make these final days of the year matter.

While you’re counting down to the holidays, take some time to connect with your community, learn something new and grow your business and career. You can find out about investor readiness with My NEXT Raise, glimpse the future of innovation at the 2025 Blue Hen Innovation Fest or drop by 1Philadelphia’s Philly House at Art Basel in Miami. And if you’re in Baltimore, say hi to Technical.ly CEO Chris Wink at the University of Maryland BioPark’s From Eureka to Impact event. There’s plenty to unwrap this month.

Check out the links below, and for more local tech community events (or to promote your own), visit the #events channel in Technical.ly’s free community Slack.

Tuesday, December 2

  • The Apprenticeship That Saved My Life – a Conversation with Cory McCray — “Author, Journeyman Electrician, and member of the Maryland General Assembly, Cory McCray will lead a conversation on apprenticeships, workforce development, and building pathways that expand opportunity. Drawing from his personal journey and his recent book, The Apprenticeship That Saved My Life, he’ll share insights on bridging education, policy, and community to create lasting impact. The session will include a moderated discussion, audience Q&A, and time to connect afterward.” Hosted by the University of Maryland BioPark.
Find more events on Technical.ly’s free community Slack

Wednesday, December 3

  • From Eureka to Impact: Maryland’s Next Era of Innovation — “Come celebrate Maryland’s moment — an upbeat evening hosted by the University of Maryland BioPark and Technical.ly that spotlights the journey of turning bold ideas into real-world impact. Get a “behind the scenes” peek at what it takes to move the needle from some the most successful executives working in Baltimore. Think sparks, stories, pushes, and momentum — with good energy and plenty to chat about. Whether you’re curious about launching a startup, getting involved with an innovative venture, or investing in the next big thing, this is a fun opportunity to mingle, celebrate progress, and leave inspired!” Hosted by the University of Maryland BioPark and Technical.ly. Technical.ly CEO Chris Wink will be moderating the panel.
  • TEDCO’s SBIR/STTR Proposal Lab Open Forum — “Join us to learn more about the SBIR/STTR Proposal Lab requirements.” Hosted by TEDCO. Sessions also on December 10 and 16.
  • 11th Philly Hardware Meetup — “Join us for the 11th Philadelphia Hardware Meetup! Come join us to hear from our guest speakers as well as share what’s on your desk. We always have time for an open mic.” Hosted by Philly Hardware with sponsorship from Ben Franklin Technology Partners.
  • BRITE: Design Thinking Series — “A 3-part interactive workshop teaching founders how to empathize, ideate, and prototype solutions using design thinking.” Hosted by Howard County Economic Development Authority. Sessions also on December 12 and 17.
  • My NEXT Raise Investor Office Hours with Sands Capital Ventures — “Sign up to learn what investor ready means to Sands Capital Ventures! Sands Capital invests in Series A and B funding rounds in the following industries: AI, machine learning, cybersecurity, healthcare technology. Check sizes range from $2m – $10m.” Hosted by NEXT powered by Shulman Rogers and My NEXT Raise.
  • Safety at Scale: How to Dox-Proof Your Team, Brand, and Wealth — “This 60 minute webinar breaks down how threats like doxxing and data broker exposure are escalating, what that means for investors and founders – from seed stage to IPO – and what you can do right now to start minimizing your digital footprint. You’ll leave with a few actionable steps—but more importantly, you’ll understand why now is the time, and where to prioritize your actions.” Hosted by NEXT powered by Shulman Rogers and My NEXT Raise.
  • My NEXT Raise Investor Office Hours with Citrine Angels — “Sign up to learn what investor ready means to Citrine Angels! Citrine Angels is a seed stage angel investing group that invests in female founders/co-founders. Citrine is industry agnostic.” Hosted by NEXT powered by Shulman Rogers and My NEXT Raise.
  • New Technologies Impacting Financial Institutions — “Members of our investment management, cybersecurity, and SEC enforcement practices will discuss new technologies impacting financial institutions and the business, internal governance, regulatory, and cybersecurity implications as firms adopt, adapt, and react to these rapid changes.” Hosted by Morgan Lewis.

Thursday, December 4

  • 2025 Blue Hen Innovation Fest — “Blue Hen Innovation Fest is an exciting event dedicated to celebrating innovation and entrepreneurship at the University of Delaware and beyond. This vibrant festival brings together a diverse community of participants, from enthusiastic undergraduate students to ambitious young alumni to innovators creating value within the community, all eager to share their groundbreaking ideas and entrepreneurial journeys. Attendees can look forward to hearing inspiring pitches from early-stage startups, engaging in dynamic discussions, and exploring a variety of innovative projects that showcase the creativity and talent within our community. Join us for a day of inspiration, collaboration, and networking as we celebrate the spirit of innovation and the future of entrepreneurship!” Hosted by University of Delaware Horn Entrepreneurship. 
  • Philly House @ Art Basel powered by 1Philadelphia & Amplify Philly — “Step into Philly House @ Art Basel, where the worlds of art, culture, and technology collide to showcase the spirit of Philadelphia’s innovation. Powered by 1Philadelphia and Amplify Philly, this vibrant gathering celebrates the creators, founders, and cultural leaders who are shaping what’s next in tech and creativity. Through bold conversations, cross-city collaborations, and a spotlight on Philadelphia’s thriving creative economy, Philly House brings together innovators from across the country to explore how art, culture, and technology are driving a new era of possibility.” Hosted by 1Philadelphia.
  • Are You Investor Ready? Why You? Why Now? — “Too many start-up CEO’s/Founders do not realize there is a fundamental checklist they must put in place to be prepared to identify potential investors and what critical hot buttons will communicate that they are ready to accelerate their business through outside investment. This one hour session will explore the fundamentals a founder needs to be able to communicate that will demonstrate that they know their business and how a potential investor can pour gas on the fire the founder has started.” Hosted by NEXT powered by Shulman Rogers and My NEXT Raise.
  • Drones, Data and Defense – Legal Issues, AI and the War Fighter — “Join us for an engaging discussion on the rapidly evolving drone, data center, and artificial intelligence legal landscape and related risks and opportunities for the aerospace and defense sector as well as for the technology, technology infrastructure, and advanced materials industries more generally.” Hosted by Morgan Lewis.
  • Mind/Body Reset & Holiday Marketplace — “Join us for a festive wellness experience designed to help you reset, recharge, and celebrate the season with intention!” Hosted by University City Science Center.

Monday, December 8

  • Veteran Shark Tank — “The Veteran Shark Tank was created in 2012 to promote and assist Veterans who are starting or growing their businesses. Starting out as a small regional event, it is now the premier national pitch competition for veteran entrepreneurs. The five finalists pitch their business idea to a panel of ‘sharks’ in front of a live sold out audience. The winner receives a $50,000 cash prize! Each of the finalists gains valuable experience to professionally grow while creating a business network to help grow and expand their businesses (potential customers, referral partners, investors, mentors, etc).” Hosted by the Greater Philadelphia Veteran Network with sponsorship from Comcast and Ben Franklin Technology Partners.
Find more events on Technical.ly’s free community Slack

Tuesday, December 9

  • 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.
  • CapitalCapital Dual Use — “CapitalCapital will be biggest annual convention in the DC region of Dual Use Technology entrepreneurs, high-growth company executives, venture investors, and the advisors and professional services that support this community.” Hosted by DCA Live with partnership from Arlington Economic Development and TEDCO.
  • Data Center Bytes: Real Estate and Environmental Considerations — “Join us for the next chapter in the Data Center Bytes webinar series, an insightful discussion of the critical opportunities and challenges shaping the data center landscape. Whether you are a developer, operator, financier, or industry stakeholder, these sessions will offer invaluable perspectives to help with navigating complex legal frameworks and emerging industry trends.” Hosted by Morgan Lewis.
  • In Good Company: Biotech & Life Sciences — “Register for In Good Company: Biotech & Life Sciences, part of the Greater Baltimore Committee’s networking series. Join for a demo of Pathways on BMore Tech Connect and share your feedback from 5:00–6:00 PM. Enjoy dinner and networking from 6:00–8:00 PM with researchers, founders, and life sciences professionals shaping Maryland’s biotech ecosystem.” Hosted by the Greater Baltimore Committee at the University of Maryland BioPark.

Wednesday, December 10

  • TEDCO’s Venture Development Open Forum — “Join TEDCO’s Venture Development team for a monthly Open Forum — a recurring lunchtime discussion designed to keep Maryland’s entrepreneurial ecosystem connected, informed, and empowered. Held every third Wednesday at 12 PM, we’ll highlight the tools, services, and funding offered through Venture Development to help early-stage tech companies and founders thrive. Whether you’re a first-time founder, a seasoned entrepreneur, or a support organization, this is your space to ask questions, gain insights, and connect with TEDCO’s Venture Development experts.” Hosted by TEDCO.
  • The Future of GovCon: Navigating Change and Seizing Opportunity — “Explore the evolving world of GovCon and discover how to position your business for success in the changing procurement landscape. As the government contracting (GovCon) landscape continues to evolve, so do the opportunities for businesses ready to adapt. From modernization and innovation to inclusive procurement initiatives, understanding where GovCon stands today is key to positioning your business for future success.” Hosted by Howard County Economic Development Authority.
  • My NEXT Raise Investor Office Hours with Ringbolt Capital — “Sign up to learn what investor ready means to Ringbolt Capital! Ringbolt Capital is a B2B enterprise software focused firm  investing in companies with $1M+ in ARR, with a focus on Data/Analytics, AI/ML, and future of work. We will lead rounds and follow on. If we lead, our check size is $1M-$2M, if we follow on it is $250K-$750K.” Hosted by NEXT powered by Shulman Rogers and My NEXT Raise.

Friday, December 12

  • Maryland MedTech Meetup — “You are invited by the Maryland Department of Commerce and Howard County Economic Development Authority (HCEDA) to join fellow Maryland medtech colleagues for networking and light breakfast at this quarterly event, to learn from one another and stay up-to-date on topics that impact your business.” Hosted by Howard County Economic Development Authority.
  • Apprenticeship Information Session for Employers — “Learn how apprenticeships can strengthen your workforce, boost retention, and build a pipeline of skilled local talent. Interested in building a stronger, more skilled workforce for your business? Join the Howard County Economic Development Authority (HCEDA) and the Howard County Office of Workforce Development for a virtual information session on how apprenticeships can benefit your organization. In this session, the Howard County Office of Workforce Development will walk employers through the process of developing and supporting apprenticeship programs that meet industry needs.” Hosted by Howard County Economic Development Authority.

Tuesday, December 16

  • The Big Idea CONNECTpreneur Holiday Breakfast & Pitch Extravaganza — “Come join us in Tysons Corner, VA for a CONNECTpreneur Forum Event like you’ve never seen before! CONNECTpreneur is a bi-monthly networking mashup, which has been attended by 30,000+ business leaders over the past 13 years and Is 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.
  • Maryland Innovation Center Virtual Open House — “Are you a business owner or aspiring entrepreneur looking for the right support to grow your startup? Join us for the Maryland Innovation Center (MIC) Virtual Open House — a monthly opportunity to explore how MIC empowers early-stage companies through mentorship, funding readiness, coworking space, and a strong network of partners.” Hosted by Howard County Economic Development Authority.
  • The Digital Grid: Technology and the Future of Distributed Energy Resources — “This session will explore how technological advancements on the electric distribution system are propelling the shift toward a more resilient grid and introducing novel uses for existing facilities. Our speakers will examine the technologies enabling this transformation—including virtual power plants, artificial intelligence integration, and advanced grid management—and will address the regulatory, financing, and cybersecurity considerations shaping this rapidly evolving landscape.” Hosted by Morgan Lewis.
  • AI Financing Due Diligence Considerations — “Morgan Lewis Lawyers will discuss the due diligence efforts that are essential to AI financings and the framework needed for these activities.” Hosted by Morgan Lewis.

Wednesday, December 17

  • PitchMasters Pitch Prep Workshop — “PitchMasters, powered by My NEXT RAISE, is a free workshop to help founders prepare for their investor pitch and is a core requirement to be “investory ready.” Since PitchMasters creation, over 300 companies have presented their businesses to CEOs, advisors, business attorneys, and investors to gain valuable feedback. At this 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 4 minutes to pitch and 10 minutes of feedback.” Hosted by NEXT powered by Shulman Rogers and My NEXT Raise.
  • Leveraging Technology, Data, and Partnerships to Create a Unified, Personalized Retail Experience — “Join our panelists for a discussion on how retailers can leverage technology, data, and strategic partnerships to deliver a unified, personalized customer experience. The session will explore emerging trends, evolving data and AI regulations, and practical insights on data rights, pricing strategies, and integrations.” Hosted by Morgan Lewis.

Friday, December 19

  • How to Raise Capital: The Legal Perspective — “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 how to successfully raise a round of capital and what you need to know from a legal perspective.” Hosted by NEXT powered by Shulman Rogers and My NEXT Raise.
  • My NEXT Raise Office Hours with Revolution — “Sign up to learn what investor ready means to Revolution! Revolution invests in Pre-Series A through Series B with initial check sizes ranging from $3M – $12M in the following industries: Real Estate Tech; Consumer / Marketplace; Fintech / Insuretech; Software.” Hosted by NEXT powered by Shulman Rogers and My NEXT Raise.

Looking to get out more in your local tech community? Explore the #events channel in Technical.ly’s free community Slack to find opportunities to connect.

Find more events on Technical.ly’s free community Slack