A Strong Start to the Year for Knoxville’s Tech Community
KTech CONNECT set the tone for 2026 in the best way possible, bringing Knoxville’s tech community into one room to network, collaborate, and build momentum for the year ahead.
25 exhibitors from tech companies and local organizations joined us for an evening of making new connections and increasing awareness about the opportunities available in Knoxville’s tech community.
A Catalyst for Momentum
The Kingston Ballroom at Bridgewater Place was buzzing with the energy of 100+ tech professionals, entrepreneurs, and community leaders. Some of the best feedback we heard was that attendees got to connect with new faces they hadn’t met at other events.
That’s exactly what KTech CONNECT was designed to do—expand networks and generate momentum for the local tech meetups that are connecting people and supporting our community throughout the year.
Fuel for Great Conversations
Great networking events don’t run on conversation alone! Guests enjoyed a curated menu of hors d’oeuvres and beverages served throughout the evening. The relaxed, social setting made it easy to grab a drink, walk the floor, and jump into meaningful conversations.
Spotlight Moments on Stage
While KTech CONNECT was intentionally designed as a networking-first experience without formal programming, we included on-stage introductions and giveaways throughout the evening to keep the energy high.
Participating tech organizations took the mic to share who they are and how people can get involved. We also heard from our giveaway sponsors who generously provided some excellent prizes for the lucky winners to take home.
A Big Thank You!
This event wouldn’t have happened without the sponsors and tech organizations who showed up, invested, and engaged. Thank you for supporting KTech CONNECT and Knoxville’s tech community. We’re grateful for your partnership!
Booth Sponsors
Swag Bag Sponsor
Table Sponsors
Exhibitor Organizations
Powered By Participation
More than anything, this event worked because Knoxville’s tech community showed up ready to participate. Every handshake, intro, and friendly face helped make the evening a success!
Our hope is that attendees were able to:
- Make meaningful new connections
- Discover a meetup, service, or organization they didn’t know about
- Spark a hiring conversation or career opportunity
- Feel more connected to the broader tech ecosystem
Looking Ahead
The response to KTech CONNECT was strong, and we’re already looking ahead. Our goal is to grow this into an annual event with even more exhibitors, more organizations, and a larger cross-section of Knoxville’s tech community.
Thank you to every sponsor, exhibitor, and attendee who made KTech CONNECT a success. We’re proud of this community and look forward to the accomplishments that 2026 will bring!
KTech CONNECT Photo Gallery
