BIG DIPPER INNOVATION SUMMIT™ 2026
Explore What’s Next
3 Days
of Programming
80+
Speakers, Panelists & Performers
30+
Sessions & Experiences
Where innovators come to think, build, and lead.
The Big Dipper Innovation Summit brings founders, creatives, investors, and business leaders together to explore the ideas, technologies, and cultural shifts that shape what comes next.
May 12-14, 2026 • Richmond, VA
Our Guests
Founders and builders. Investors and operators. Creatives and business leaders. Policy makers and institutional voices. BDIS brings together people who don’t usually sit in the same room, but when they do, things happen.
Governor, The Commonwealth of Virginia
Chief Executive Officer, Markel Group
VP & Managing Director, Investments, Pivotal Ventures
CEO, Kickstarter
Technology Columnist, The New York Times
Chairman, Qey Capital Partners
President, Dominion Energy Virginia
When the main stage goes dark, the city lights up. Extended Play is Big Dipper Innovation Summit™ after-hours programming, spreading attendees across Richmond's creative ecosystem each evening for curated experiences at intimate satellite venues.
Extended Play is where the real conversations happen. Smaller rooms, real talk, lasting relationships. Three evenings. Multiple venues. Culture meets commerce after dark.
Extended Play
Extended Play Guests

