Tech Connect returns in 2026 as Greater Cleveland’s signature gathering of tech companies and leaders, educators, and entrepreneurs—where technology meets real-world impact.

This year’s event goes beyond inspiration. It’s about activation.

From artificial intelligence and emerging tech to workforce development and student innovation, Tech Connect 2026 will showcase how Cleveland is building solutions, scaling companies, and creating pathways into the future of work.

1:00 – 5:00 p.m. | Anthropic Business Hackathon

Note: this part of the event is invite only: Fill out the form below to submit your business & community challenges for the Hackathon

GCP/Anthropic Hackathon
 
  • Before the main event, business leaders, technologists, and community partners will roll up their sleeves for a hands-on Hackathon in partnership with Anthropic. Participants will collaborate in cross-functional teams to design AI-powered solutions that address real-world business and community challenges. These working sessions are built for practical application - not theory - focused on identifying pain points, building prototypes, and stress-testing ideas. The concepts developed during the Hackathon will be shared live at Tech Connect, offering attendees a first look at how Greater Cleveland businesses are experimenting, learning, and deploying AI in meaningful ways. This is where ideas turn into action.

5:30 p.m. | Student Tech Innovation Pitch Competition

Note: Open to all

  • At 5:30 p.m., the spotlight turns to the next generation of innovators. In partnership with Cleveland Metropolitan School District, Tech Connect will host the regional round of the Student Tech Innovation Pitch Competition, where the top three CMSD winners advance to compete on a larger stage. These students have developed original technology-based business ideas or digital innovations addressing real-world challenges. Their concepts span categories such as AI, robotics, health and wellness tech, environmental solutions, cybersecurity tools, educational platforms, and smart city innovations. Finalists will deliver live pitches, participate in Q&A with business and technology leaders, and compete to get the vote as the audience favorite.

6:00-8:00 p.m. | Networking and Connections

Note: Open to all

Enjoy time with your peers in the tech community developing connections, relationships, and new collaborations!

If you care about the future of tech, talent, and growth in our region—this is where you need to be.

March 19, 2026, 1:00 pm - 8:00 pm
House of Blues Restaurant & Bar, 308 Euclid Ave, Cleveland
Presented by Greater Cleveland Partnership

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