DEEP TECH WORKSHOP
A comprehensive two part educational series designed for those interested in the forefront of technological innovation, particularly in the Deep Tech sector.
We are excited to announce the second installment of our acclaimed Deep Tech Workshop Series. Deep Technology is having its moment as developments in AI, robotics, material science, biotech, climate tech, and more open up new opportunities for innovations and investment in deep technologies.
This series is tailor-made for entrepreneurs, engineers, investors, and deep tech enthusiasts eager to expand their knowledge in this dynamic field. Hosted by First Flight Venture Center, a leader in deep tech startup incubation and acceleration for over three decades, we offer a unique platform to explore high-science, high-impact innovations.
Join us as we share insights from our experiences and connect with leading practitioners and experts in the deep tech community.
Speaker Series
Over the course of four sessions, we will bring together a distinguished lineup of speakers from the forefront of Deep Tech innovation. These leaders and pioneers from various startups will share their wealth of knowledge, insights, and firsthand experiences in developing and scaling cutting-edge technologies. Our aim is to illuminate the path to innovation through practical case studies, engaging discussions, and interactive Q&A sessions.
Part A: Speaker Series
The speaker series will feature leaders, investors, and pioneers in the Deep Tech space sharing their unique experience, perspective and approaches to innovating within this dynamic field.
Session I: June 25th | 3:30 - 5 pm
Rob Creighton, CEO of Windlift
Rob Creighton, CEO of Windlift, leads the charge in revolutionizing wind power with autonomous, tethered drones designed for military, remote, and utility-scale applications. Based in Durham, Windlift recently secured a $30M contract with the Naval Research Laboratory, highlighting its potential to transform wind power by significantly reducing costs and the infrastructure required for manufacturing and deployment through advanced automation. This groundbreaking work positions Windlift as a leader in the deep tech space, embodying the innovative spirit and cutting-edge solutions that define our region.
Session II: July 11th | 3:30 - 5 pm
Huade Tan, CEO of PlantD Materials
Huade Tan, CEO of Plantd Materials, brings a wealth of experience from his work on advanced manufacturing processes at SpaceX. At Plantd, based in the Triangle, he leads the development of carbon-negative building materials through innovations in manufacturing technology and sustainable agriculture. Plantd is an inspiring climate tech startup solving real problems by integrating advancements in manufacturing, automation, and perennial agriculture, embodying the deep tech innovation of our region.
Session III: July 23rd | 3:30 - 5 pm
Deep Tech Investor Panel led by Liam King of 2ndF
Panelists:
Liam King, COS at 2ndF. 2ndF specializes in deep tech investing, aiming to elevate the Triangle startup ecosystem to national leadership.
Evan Shear, Investor at Oval Park Capital. Oval Park is an early-stage venture capital firm based in Raleigh that invests primarily in deep technology startups in the Southeastern United States.
Swati Chaturvedi, Co-Founder / CEO of Propel(x) - Propel(x) is an investment platform for deep technology startups. Swati coined the term “deep tech” in 2014 to describe startups based on breakthrough scientific and engineering innovations.
Session IV: July 30th | 3:30 - 5 pm
ELIF BALKAS, CTO OF WOLFSPEED
Elif Balkas, Chief Technology Officer at Wolfspeed, holds a Ph.D. in Materials Science from NC State and brings over 19 years of experience in R&D and operations, focusing on developing scalable technologies for more efficient electronic systems. Formerly known as Cree, Wolfspeed has a rich history of leadership in LEDs and sustainability and is now recognized for its pioneering advancements in silicon carbide technology and wide bandgap materials. Based in the Research Triangle Park and a homegrown success from NC State, Wolfspeed exemplifies the deep tech innovation and entrepreneurial spirit of our region.
Pricing - $100 for all four sessions
Attendance recommended but not required for all four sessions. Prorated pricing not available.
Early Stage Accelerator Program
Following the speaker series, we will be offering a deep tech-focused startup accelerator utilizing our award-winning Propellor program and framework. This six-week design thinking program equips founders with tools to evaluate their ideas, identify markets, and develop investor-ready pitches. Participants will have the opportunity to refine their business strategies and communication, create commercialization plans, and turning tech innovations into viable business opportunities.
Part B: Early Stage Accelerator Program
Focused on Deep Tech Companies and Topics
Program starts in August, with exact dates TBD
Accelerator will be based on our successful Propellor methodology
Timing - The program will begin in the fall of 2024. Exact dates and times TBD. If you are accepted, we will reach out to coordinate timing in collaboration with all other startups in the program.
Pricing - $1000. We have a number of full and partial scholarships available. Please express interest in these scholarships on the registration form and we will reach out to discuss.
For more questions or information reach out to: bprovan@ffvcnc.org