Applications now open for 2026 Bend Venture Conference

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Applications are now open for startups hoping to compete in the 2026 Bend Venture Conference, a long-running event that brings investors and entrepreneurs to Central Oregon each fall.

The conference is set for October 15–16 at the Tower Theatre in downtown Bend. Hosted by Economic Development for Central Oregon (EDCO), the event features live company pitches, networking, and educational sessions.

Now in its 23rd year, organizers say the Bend Venture Conference is the Pacific Northwest’s longest-running angel investment conference. More than $14 million has been invested in 67 companies through conference funds since its launch, with additional funding often secured after the event through investor connections.

This year also brings new leadership. Wendy Morgan recently joined EDCO as Venture Catalyst Director and will oversee the conference year-round, focusing on strengthening relationships between founders and investors. Patti Brooke and Lisa Hovey have also been named co-managers of the Bend Venture Conference Funds.

“BVC has always been about creating meaningful connections between founders, investors and the people who help companies grow,” Morgan said. “As we look ahead to 2026, we're building on a strong foundation with fresh energy and a continued commitment to delivering an exceptional experience for investors while helping founders access the relationships, resources and capital they need to scale.”

Organizers are also expanding the competition structure this year, creating three tracks:

• Early Stage, for Oregon-based startups that are pre-revenue or early in commercialization and raising less than $1 million.
• Growth Tech, for technology-driven companies with at least $500,000 in revenue over the past year and actively raising between $250,000 and $2.5 million or more.
• Growth Industries, for companies in sectors like consumer products, biotech, climate tech, and hardware that meet similar revenue and fundraising thresholds.

Finalists in each category will pitch live at the Tower Theatre in front of investors and attendees. Growth-stage finalists have historically received combined investments of $250,000 or more, pending due diligence.

The application window is open through August 13. Organizers say the Early Stage track will continue to prioritize Oregon-based startups, including a cash award for a standout company headquartered in Central Oregon.

Startups can apply or learn more at bendvc.com/apply.