VC IMMERSIONS
The startup event that gets you in the room, not just in the crowd.
35+ top venture firms. Curated 1:1 meetings. Zero fluff.
Backed by leaders in venture and innovation
Curated, not crowded
Every session is designed to move your fundraise forward.
Featuring:
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35+ top-tier VCs from across the U.S.
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Private 1:1 meetings with aligned funds
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Founder-only workshops and feedback rooms
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Off-the-record sessions and peer connection
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Local experiences that show you why the Heartland is the next frontier
The numbers speak for themselves
260+
VC-founder meetings last cycle
80
Founders selected for curated investor matches
$10M
In term sheets and follow-up conversations
May 13 | 6:00 PM
VC Immersions | VIP Mixer
The conversations start here. This private kickoff brings together 35+ visiting VCs, corporate innovators, and key ecosystem leaders for a fast-paced, mission-driven mixer designed to accelerate trust and spark real dialogue.
Request an invite
May 14 | 8:30 AM
Onward HQ Launch Party
Celebrate the official launch of Onward HQ—Northwest Arkansas’s home base for venture-backed founders and visiting investors. Tour the space, meet the community, and hear what’s next for the region’s innovation economy.
Request an invite
May 14 | 11:00 AM
Unscripted: The Opening Session at VC Immersions
We’re starting VC Immersions the way all good things begin: with curiosity, candor, and a little bit of chaos. This interactive kickoff puts founders, investors, LPs, and operators in the driver’s seat with four simultaneous lightning sessions—some curated, others sparked live by the crowd.
Register
May 14 | 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
1:1 VC:Founder Meetings
Pre-scheduled meetings between selected startups and visiting VCs. These curated conversations are designed to accelerate funding outcomes and spark long-term partnerships.
Applications Closed
May 14 | 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
The Founder’s Briefing Room: Expert Mentor Office Hours
Drop in for 1:1 guidance with subject matter experts (SMEs) focused on fundraising, pitch refinement, and growth strategy. Open to founders selected for VC Immersions and those preparing for future raises. Hosted in partnership with ARise and the Conductor team.
Register
May 14 | 1:00 PM – 3:30 PM
Guided Paved Bike Ride
Join us for a guided paved ride on our trails with Nat Ross! This ride is capped at 15 people.
Register
May 14 | 5:30 PM
Fuel HealthTech Demo Day + After Party
Seven healthtech startups from across the country and around the world debut cutting-edge solutions at the new Heartland Whole Health Institute. Demos, networking, and an afterparty to close out the day.
Register
May 15 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Guided MTB Ride
Join us for a guided MTB ride on our trails with Erin Rushing of OZTB! This ride is capped at 5 people.
Register
What to expect on the ground
A one-day experience designed for high-growth founders and high-conviction investors. Curated 1:1s, founder-only workshops, and off-the-record conversations that matter.
Frequently asked questions
What if I'm not selected for investor meeting?
You’ll still be invited to community events and networking opportunities!
What’s the time commitment?
Meetings are 40 minutes each.
Is there a cost to participate?
Nope. We’re focused on connecting great founders with great investors.
What sectors and stages are a fit?
Pre-seed to Series A across all sectors including but not limited to SaaS, Retail, Fintech, Healthtech, and Industrial Tech.
Will virtual meetings be an option?
Yes, we’re happy to make e-introductions where possible.
Our Partners and Sponsors
