BLOOMINGTON — After nine weeks of rapid development, refining business models, and securing early traction, ten student-led startup teams are preparing to take the stage at The Mill in Bloomington later this month.
Amplify Bloomington will host Startup Summer 2026: Demo Day on Friday, July 31, showcasing the culmination of its intensive summer accelerator program. The event offers local investors, mentors, industry partners, and community members an early look at the region’s newest ventures.
Connecting Community with Innovation
Throughout the nine-week program, student founders worked to launch and scale their ideas, with some already acquiring their first paying customers. Demo Day serves as both a celebration of their progress and a crucial platform to secure support for their next stage of growth.
Rather than a standard pitch competition, each founder or team will present their progress alongside a specific request for the audience.
“Each founder will share what they are building and will make an ask—something specific they need to take the next step,” said Tobey Wyatt, Head of Entrepreneurship Growth at Amplify Bloomington. “It might be a beta tester, a first customer, an introduction, or feedback, and it might be something you can help with.”
Following the formal pitch presentations, attendees will have time to network directly with the founders, view product demos, and discuss potential partnerships or investment opportunities during a meet-and-greet reception.
Event Details & Attendance
The event is open to the public, including local investors, potential customers, business mentors, and residents interested in Bloomington’s emerging tech and business ecosystem. Complimentary food and drinks will be provided for all guests.
- Date: Friday, July 31, 2026
- Time: Doors open at 2:00 p.m.; Program runs from 2:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
- Location: The Mill Event Hall, Bloomington, IN
- Admission: Free, but space is limited
Due to venue capacity, organizers strongly encourage early registration. Interested attendees can reserve their spot through the Amplify Bloomington Demo Day Registration Form.
