Innovation does not happen in isolation. Pittsburgh’s story proves that. With deep roots in robotics, artificial intelligence, manufacturing and education, our region’s strength lies in the people and partnerships that keep driving new ideas forward.
That’s the idea at the heart of EXPlore: Pittsburgh Tech Week, presented by Google and Citizens.
Pittsburgh Tech Week creates space for founders, funders, educators, developers, policymakers and students to come together to learn, collaborate and grow — and explore how technology is shaping the way we live, work and connect.
- For startup founders: This is a chance to pause from juggling many hats and connect with peers who understand both the grind and the vision.
- For educators and nonprofits: Attend workshops and find resources designed to help you scale.
- For the broader community: This is a reminder that innovation is not reserved for a select few. It is for all of us, and your voice and presence matters.
What makes Pittsburgh Tech Week unique
What sets this event apart is its open, citywide format.
Instead of confining the experience to one building or one audience, Pittsburgh Tech Week transforms the entire city into a hub of innovation. You truly have the opportunity to explore Pittsburgh’s tech scene and be a part of the ecosystem.
Events span from the David L. Lawrence Convention Center to university campuses and neighborhood coworking spaces. The week includes panels, pitch competitions, Google AI workshops, tech mixers and live demonstrations where creativity and technology meet in unexpected ways. Here are some of the highlights.
Youth Day
One of the most anticipated highlights is Youth Day (Tuesday, Nov. 4), where students in grades 9–12 explore robotics, artificial intelligence and coding through hands-on sessions.
They will also showcase their own projects during the High School Student Spotlight, proof that the future of innovation is already here. When young people are given access to cutting-edge technology and the chance to see themselves in these spaces, the ripple effect extends far beyond one week.
We can all be what we see, and exposure is the key.
Beyond the Goal Line: Life, Legacy & Tech
One signature event is Beyond the Goal Line: Life, Legacy & Tech (Monday, Nov. 3), a fireside conversation with NFL legends Jerome Bettis, Joey Porter Sr. and Charlie Batch, who will discuss how technology is reshaping the world of sports, from recruitment and coaching to athlete branding.
It’s the perfect example of how EXPlore Pittsburgh Tech Week connects technology to everyday life, culture, and purpose.
Startup Showcase + Pitch Competition
For founders ready to take their ideas to the next level, the Startup Showcase + Pitch Competition (Thursday, Nov. 6) offers the chance to present their vision and compete for a $10,000 prize.
It’s not just about funding; it is about visibility, connection, and the spark that happens when innovation meets opportunity.
Mark Cuban keynote
On Wednesday, Nov. 5, EXPLore Pittsburgh Tech Week will co-host an exclusive keynote conversation with entrepreneur and investor Mark Cuban As part of the Global Impact Forum at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center.
Cuban will share insights on innovation, entrepreneurship, and the evolving tech landscape highlighting how collaboration across sectors can fuel inclusive growth in Pittsburgh’s innovation ecosystem.
The power of collaboration
Pittsburgh Tech Week thrives because it reflects the collaborative spirit that defines our city.
Google and Citizens aren’t just sponsors; they are partners in amplifying access to resources, mentorship and exposure for emerging innovators. Local universities, nonprofits and tech companies have all come together to make this week possible. It is a true ecosystem in motion, built on shared belief in what is possible when we work together.
As Pittsburgh continues to evolve from its industrial past into a national leader in AI, robotics and innovation, Tech Week serves as both a celebration and a catalyst. It challenges us to think bigger, connect deeper and imagine a future that includes everyone.
If you are a founder, builder, educator or simply someone curious about where technology is headed, this week is for you. Come ready to learn, share, and discover the ideas shaping the future right here in Pittsburgh.
