Bringing Entrepreneurs and Investors together since 2002 to
Connect. Invest. Learn. Grow.
February 4 & 5, 2026
Rivers Casino Event Center
Pittsburgh, PA
ABOUT THE FAIR
The 3 Rivers Venture Fair (3RVF) is Pittsburgh's premier venture capital event, connecting high-growth startups with investors, corporate partners, and innovation leaders since 2002. This annual gathering serves as a launchpad for emerging companies in tech, life sciences, advanced manufacturing, and beyond, offering curated pitch opportunities, expert insights, and high-impact networking. Known for driving real business outcomes, past participants have secured funding, formed strategic partnerships, and accelerated growth through the Fair's signature Venture Connection program - a structured matchmaking platform that pairs founders with aligned investors.
In 2026, 3RVF returns with an elevated focus on deal-making and industry trends. Attendees can expect a select showcase of vetted startups, dynamic keynote/panel discussions on emerging opportunities, and exclusive meetings designed to turn connections into action. With expanded participation from venture funds and corporate innovation teams, this year's event promises to be the most consequential yet - bridging Pittsburgh's thriving ecosystem with national capital and expertise. Whether you're a founder seeking funding or an investor scouting breakthrough innovations, the 3RVF is where meaningful partnerships begin.
$1 Billion+
raised by participating companies
10,000+
Venture Connections since 2016
40%
of participating companies attract capital (12 months post-Fair)
BECOME A SPONSOR
Sponsoring the 3RVF positions your brand at the heart of Pittsburgh's innovation economy, connecting you with high-potential startups, top-tier investors, and influential decision-makers. As a sponsor, you'll gain exclusive visibility among the region's most promising entrepreneurs and venture capitalists, while demonstrating your commitment to fostering growth and cutting-edge innovation.
Join us in shaping the future of innovation - partner with 3RVF and turn visibility into impact.
Questions? Contact Kelly Szejko at kelly@thepvca.org or +1 (412) 228-5885
Sponsorship OpportunitiesVenture Connection is the 3RVF's premier matchmaking program, designed to efficiently connect high-potential startups with the right investors. Through curated meetings, entrepreneurs get direct access to venture capitalists, angel investors, and corporate partners actively seeking new opportunities.
Every participating entrepreneur is screened by our Selection Committee - comprised of venture capitalists and angel investors - ensuring only fund-ready companies participate.
Entrepreneurs deliver pitches to investor tables in focused 20-minute sessions, rotating through multiple pre-matched meetings in two efficient blocks. This structured speed-dating format maximizes meaningful connections while minimizing downtime.
This dedicated portion of 3RVF enables investors to proactively connect through our attendee portal, where they can pre-arrange targeted meetings with fellow funders before the event. Venture capitalists, angel groups and corporate investment teams use this system to schedule strategic conversations about co-investment opportunities, market trends, and portfolio strategies - ensuring their time is spent on valuable connections.
All Venture Connection investors receive exclusive Investor Link scheduling access.
Testimonials
We attended the [2024] 3 Rivers Venture Fair and were extremely impressed with the entire event. It was very well run, the meetings we held were well organized and well worth the effort. Extremely worth while event.
- Gary Wakeford, SonoStik LLC
I've been involved with the 3RVF for many years and have a very unique perspective. For 10 years, as Chairman of Deal Flow for BlueTree Allied Angels, I participated in the selection process and several other of the organizing committees. As an entrepreneur, for the last 2 years, I've been on the "other side of the table". In both cases, 3RVF does an amazing job of coordinating and facilitating investment in our start-up community.
- Don Morrison, Sustainable Composites, LLC
The 3RVF attracts investors from all over the Midwest and provided the opportunity to present our company and increase the number of investors considering investing. It is a great event!
- Anthony Sterns, PhD, iRxReminder
3RVF Leadership
Accommodations
The Landing Hotel is the official hotel for the 3RVF, directly connected to the Rivers Casino Event Center for seamless access. We've secured a block of discounted rooms for our attendees - book early to guarantee your stay at this modern boutique hotel featuring tech-friendly rooms, on-site dining, and a rooftop lounge.
To book your hotel room, please call: (412) 391-4600 and mention the "3RVF".