SCHEDULE
WHEN & WHERE
WHEN & WHERE
DAY 1
Monday, Sept. 14
3:30 -
5:30 PM
Kickoff Happy Hour
+ Early Badge Pickup
Presented By
Von Elrod’s Beer Hall & Kitchen
1004 4th Ave N
Kick off 3686 Week with cold drinks, great bites, and even better company. Join attendees from across Tennessee and all over the country for an opening happy hour in the heart of Germantown, featuring some of Nashville’s best local brews. Plus, get a head start by picking up your conference badge before a packed day of programming, connections, and big ideas on Tuesday.
DAY 2
Tuesday, Sept. 15
9:00 AM
Registration + Breakfast
Brooklyn Bowl
925 3rd Ave N
Start your 3686 day with coffee and breakfast bites to fuel up for all the conversations and connections ahead. Check in and grab your conference badge before diving into the day’s programming—and be sure to give yourself a few extra minutes, as all attendees must check-in and receive their badge before entering the conference.
9:00 AM
Swag Station
Brooklyn Bowl
925 3rd Ave N
Swing by the Swag Station to grab this year’s exclusive conference tote, featuring a collection of Tennessee icons and designed to carry a little Volunteer State spirit wherever you go. Trust us, you won't want to miss this.
9:00 AM
Photo Studio
Brooklyn Bowl
925 3rd Ave N
Ready for your close-up? Step into the 3686 Photo Studio, strike a pose, and walk away with a one-of-a-kind portrait perfect for your profile, your feed, or just showing off that 3686 energy.
9:00 AM
Work Lounge
Presented By
Brooklyn Bowl
925 3rd Ave N
We know—the workday doesn’t stop just because you’re at 3686. Duck into the Work Lounge to catch up on emails, take a call, or tackle a few to-dos, then get back out there and keep the momentum going.
9:30 AM -
3:30 PM
Connect Deck
Presented By
Brooklyn Bowl
925 3rd Ave N
Some of the biggest breakthroughs start with a simple conversation. Step out onto the Connect Deck for founder meetups, investor chats, customer calls, spontaneous introductions... or just a little fresh air. It's your outdoor hub for making connections—and making things happen.
9:30 AM -
3:30 PM
Brella 1-on-1s
Presented By
TailGate Brewery
915 3rd Ave N
Expand your network at 3686 with a little help from Brella. Use the app’s AI-powered recommendations to discover attendees to meet, then schedule one-on-one conversations throughout the day with founders, investors, service providers, and ecosystem leaders throughout the conference. Check Brella for personalized matches, available times, and meeting details—and turn a smart introduction into your next big connection.
9:30 AM -
3:30 PM
Cowrite the Future Photo Booth
Presented By
Brooklyn Bowl
915 3rd Ave N
Strike a pose in the Cowrite the Future selfie station, brought to you by the Nashville Innovation Alliance! 3 poses, 2 prints… and a whole lot of fun. Don't miss this fun, interactive experience to take photos with friends and share your innovation story with the Cowrite the Future cards.
10:00 AM -
11:00 AM
Future Themes of
Tennessee Innovation & Venture
Brooklyn Bowl
925 3rd Ave N
Defense tech and quantum technologies are among the emerging sectors reshaping Tennessee’s innovation economy. Explore these and other trends, opportunities, and forces—from new technologies to new sources of capital—that will define the next chapter of innovation and venture across the state, with insights from leading experts across key industries.
Oak Ridge National Laboratory
Shaun Gleason
Claritas & Blackbird Capital
John Gordon
U.S. Department of War
Gary Landuyt
Quantinuum
Ryan McKenney
U.S. Department of Energy
Frank Salomone
10:00 AM -
12:00 PM
Ask Me Anything Stage
Von Elrod’s Beer Hall & Kitchen
1004 4th Ave N
Back by popular demand, the Ask Me Anything Stage returns for another rapid-fire round of candid conversations with leaders, innovators, and game changers from across Tennessee and beyond. Bring your burning questions and hear directly from the people shaping what’s next as each featured guest takes the hot seat for a fast-paced, 15-minute AMA.
Tennessee Titans
Adolpho Birch
Rock Nashville/Clair Global
Robert Bull
MOJO Impact Collective
Monchiere’ Holmes-Jones
Nashville Post
Nicolle Praino
Nexus Leeds
Barry Singleton
Baker Donelson
Chris Sloan
10:00 AM -
12:30 PM
Startup Showcase
Von Elrod’s Beer Hall & Kitchen
1004 4th Ave N
See what Tennessee is building. The Startup Showcase puts some of the state’s most exciting startups, emerging technologies, and cutting-edge products front and center. Meet the founders bringing bold ideas to life, experience their innovations up close, and discover what’s next from across the Volunteer State.
11:00 -
11:30 AM
Building Built:
Constructing Nashville's Soaring Startup
Brooklyn Bowl
925 3rd Ave N
Great companies are built on more than capital—they’re built on relationships, conviction, and the right partners at the right time. Scott Sohr and Chase Gilbert will share the story of Canary Ventures and Built Technologies, exploring the early bets, lessons, and pivotal moments that helped turn a big idea into a category-defining company.
LaunchTN
Lindsey Cox
Built Technologies, Inc
Chase Gilbert
Canary Ventures
Scott Sohr
11:30 AM -
12:00 PM
Beyond the Spot:
A Fireside Chat With Metropolis
Brooklyn Bowl
925 3rd Ave N
Metropolis started with a simple idea: make parking better. What followed was a much bigger vision for how AI can transform the physical world. This intimate conversation will unpack the company’s journey—from early bets and breakthrough technology to rapid scale, bold expansion, and the opportunity ahead.
LaunchTN
Lindsey Cox
Metropolis
Courtney Fukuda
Assembly Ventures
Jessica Robinson
12:00 -
1:00 PM
Lunch
Presented By
Brooklyn Bowl
925 3rd Ave N
Grab a box lunch, pull up a seat, and keep the conversations going. Refuel, reconnect, and make a few new friends before diving into an action-packed afternoon at 3686.
1:00 -
2:00 PM
Tennessee's AI Transformation:
From Prompt To Power
Brooklyn Bowl
925 3rd Ave N
What does it take to turn AI’s enormous potential into real-world impact? Explore how Tennessee businesses are applying AI to solve complex challenges, create new opportunities, and reshape industries—and why the state is uniquely positioned as a national leader to shape what comes next.
Enterprise Sensor Systems
James Buck
AI Tennessee
Caleb Knight
NTT Data
Jude Olesh
IV.ai Solutions
Ines Voellinger
1:15 PM -
2:00 PM
From Research to Regeneration:
Meet NSF's Latest Innovation Engine
Von Elrod’s Beer Hall & Kitchen
1004 4th Ave N
A new model for innovation is taking shape across Tennessee and the Southeast. Explore how the NSF BRIDGES Engine is bringing together research, industry, capital, and communities to move breakthrough technologies from the lab to the market—and create new companies, jobs, and economic opportunity along the way.
University of Tennessee
Deborah Crawford
HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology
Sam Jackson
U.S. National Science Foundation
Joda Thongnopnua
ADgrow Tech
Travis Hedrick
2:00 PM -
2:45 PM
Built in Tennessee. Growing Worldwide.
Von Elrod’s Beer Hall & Kitchen
1004 4th Ave N
Skip the theory and hear from startup leaders who are actively building business beyond U.S. borders. Moderated by Brie Knox, Statewide Director for the U.S. Commercial Service, this conversation features Tennessee startups sharing what worked, what surprised them, and the lessons they learned entering international markets, as well as the resources they recommend to help accelerate your own global growth.
International Trade Administration
Brie Knox
CIS Power USA
Paul Bonovich
ViNIL
Charles Alexander
Tennessee Craft Spirits
David Pick
2:00 PM -
3:00 PM
Tennessee:
Where Creative Brands Thrive
Brooklyn Bowl
925 3rd Ave N
Great brands don’t just follow the playbook—they rewrite it. Hear how some of Tennessee’s most creative entrepreneurs have turned unconventional ideas, bold strategic bets, and a willingness to do things differently into businesses that stand out, scale, and endure. Plus, the advice they’d give to the innovators building what’s next.
Big Ears Festival
Ashley Capps
Joan of Arc Music
Cindy Mabe
imogene + willie
K.P. McNeill
The Peach Truck
Stephen & Jessica Rose
Nashville Business Journal
Eric Snyder
2:45 PM -
3:30 PM
Nashville Tech Studio:
Amplifying Civic Innovation
What if Nashville could turn its top challenges into its next big innovation opportunities? Go inside the Nashville Innovation Alliance’s Tech Studio to see how researchers and city leaders are collaborating to develop, test, and scale technology built to solve real problems.
Von Elrod’s Beer Hall & Kitchen
1004 4th Ave N
Institute for Software Integrated Systems
Will Barbour
Nashville Department of Transportation & Multimodal Infrastructure
Brad Freeze
Metropolitan of Nashville and Davidson County
Colleen Herndon
Vanderbilt University
Meiyi Ma
Metropolitan Nashville Department of Emergency Communications
Patrice Coleman
Vanderbilt University
George Wilson
3:00 -
4:00 PM
Capital Conversations
Presented By
Capital is more than a check—it's a strategy. Whether you're preparing to raise, exploring financing options, or simply looking to better understand Tennessee's funding ecosystem, this session will connect you with the people, programs, and partners helping startups grow. Learn about Launch Tennessee's $70 million InvestTN Fund, plus lending opportunities and financial guidance from Pinnacle Financial Partners and Pathway Lending.
Brooklyn Bowl
925 3rd Ave N
Greater Nashville Private Capital Association
Judith Byrd
Nashville Entrepreneur Center
Sam Davidon
Pathway Lending
Jarlecia Jones
LaunchTN
Eller Kelliher
Pinnacle Financial Partners
Tyler Morgan
4:00 -
5:30 PM
Pitch Competition
Presented By
Brooklyn Bowl
925 3rd Ave N
Big ideas. Bold pitches. High stakes. The fan-favorite 3686 Pitch Competition, presented by Amazon, returns as standout founders take the stage to showcase their companies before a panel of expert judges—and a packed crowd of investors, potential customers, and fellow innovators—for the chance to take home a $10,000 cash prize and a 12-month package from LUCID Private Offices. Then, cast your vote for the Audience Choice Award and help one founder score a 6-month package from LUCID Private Offices.
Market Square Ventures
Brandon Bruce
LaunchTN
Logan Leatherwood
SPARK Innovation Center
Chris McAdoo
Vanderbilt University
George Wilson
Tech Square Ventures
Jason Kuo
Beliade Consumer Partners
Whitney Williams
5:30 -
6:30 PM
Happy Hour Hangout
TailGate Brewery
915 3rd Ave N
That’s a wrap on a big day at 3686—now let’s raise a glass. Grab a drink, reconnect with familiar faces, toast new connections, and celebrate a day of big ideas and Tennessee innovation before heading out for a night in Music City.
Note: Happy Hour will end right in time for attendees who purchased the ticket add-on for the Nashville Sounds v. Memphis Redbirds Minor League Baseball game to make it to their seats for opening pitch.
6:35 PM
TN Innovation Night at the Ballpark: Nashville Sounds v. Memphis Redbirds
Presented By
First Horizon Park
1004 4th Ave N
Take 3686 out to the ballgame! Attendees who purchased an add-on ticket are invited to wrap up the day at First Horizon Park as the Nashville Sounds take on the Memphis Redbirds. Join your fellow 3686 attendees in a special reserved section of Paradise Park for a special night of Tennessee Minor League Baseball, Music City fun, and a few surprises along the way. Bring the team spirit—we’ll take care of the rest.
DAY 3
Wednesday, Sept 16
8:00 -
9:30 AM
Partner Popup
Brewing Connections
Founder Fuel Station
Monday Night Brewing
1308 Adams St
Your recharge stop during 3686 week. Coffee poured by Asulon Collective, plus Pitch Portraits, a free professional headshot for your next pitch or your LinkedIn profile. Built for founders, investors, advisors, and anyone in town for 3686 who wants to keep the momentum going.
8:30 -
9:15 AM
Partner Popup
Slow Flow Yoga Class
Werthan Building Plaza
601 Press Pl
Start your Wednesday with movement, mindfulness, and fresh air. Join our friends from Small World Yoga for an outdoor slow flow session designed to help you stretch, reset, and recharge before another packed day at 3686. Whether you're a seasoned yogi or still learning, all experience levels are welcome—just bring yourself and get ready to start the day feeling your best.
9:00 -
10:30 AM
Partner Popup
Lighthouse Open House
The Lighthouse
207 24th Ave N
Come check out the Lighthouse. We rarely open the doors to the public, so this is your shot! We’ll have a coffee truck from Paradeisos offering drinks. Grab something, walk around the space, and hangout with founders. No panels or agenda, just good people building in Nashville!
Cohosts include:
Derrick from FBT, Andrea from Rho, Tommy from Riverfront
9:30 -
11:30 AM
Partner Popup
Innovators Forum - AI Data Centers
Monday Night Brewing
1308 Adams St
Join a lively discussion on the impact of AI data center development. Communities are demanding a seat at the negotiating table. Nashville's Metro Council approved sweeping legislation to protect the community in July.
Guests will include: Ross Hamilton, Design Manager at global architecture firm Gensler; and Burkley Allen, mechanical engineer and at-Large Nashville Metro Council member.
The Innovators Forum explores AI, energy, and health and is co-hosted by Julia Polk of Curio and Dr. Reed Omary, a planetary care physician.
11:00 AM -
2:00 PM
Tech + Startup Job Fair
Brooklyn Bowl
915 3rd Ave N
This isn’t your typical career fair. New to 3686 this year, the Tech & Startup Job Fair connects Tennessee’s top talent with innovative startups, fast-growing companies, and industry-leading employers from across the state. Skip the booths and stiff handshakes for real conversations with companies building what’s next—all over brunch bites, drinks, and tunes from a live DJ. This is where connections become careers.
11:00 AM -
1:00 PM
Partner Popup
Preparing for and Raising Financing, Key Tech and AI Commercial Transactions, and Planning for Exit
Werthan Building
601 Taylor Pl
Join us for a lunch session led by the Nelson Mullins law firm, covering negotiation strategies for financings, exits and technology transactions. Topics include market terms for Safes, Convertible Notes, Preferred Stock; key M&A considerations; investor expectations for equity and IP protection; and AI and technology commercial transactions.
11:30 AM -
12:30 PM
Partner Popup
Brewing Connections
The New Moats: What Customer Behavior Reveals About Distribution, Community, and Taste
Monday Night Brewing
1308 Adams St
In this hands-on workshop, co-hosted by Jessica Murray and Melissa Jones, founders will learn how to interpret real-time customer behavior through the lenses of design, marketing, and operations — and use those insights to build smarter, more aligned experiences. We’ll explore how customer insights reveal hidden friction, operational inefficiencies and gaps in your user experience— and how to respond with intentional design decisions, clearer communication, and streamlined systems.
12:30 -
1:30 PM
Partner Popup
Brewing Connections
After the First Meeting: Demystifying Venture Financings from Intro to Close
Monday Night Brewing
1308 Adams St
Building a venture backed company comes with a distinct set of challenges with raising venture capital often being one of the most challenging. Join us for a discussion with early-stage investors and leading industry experts who will provide candid advice and insights into the fundraising process.
1:45 -
2:45 PM
Partner Popup
HILLTOP+ Spotlight:
Grid Innovation in Tennessee
Werthan Building
601 Taylor Pl
Join the Tennessee Advanced Energy Business Council, Tennessee Tech, the Knoxville Entrepreneur Center, and the Biz Foundry to take a deep dive into grid innovation in the Appalachian region. Hear from innovators and infrastructure developers and see a demo of HILLTOP+, a tool developed by Tennessee Tech to model new technologies in real time and provide utilities and startups with real data on how a new innovation will affect the grid.
1:45 -
2:45 PM
Partner Popup
Brewing Connections
Building in Public: An Interactive Social Media Workshop
Monday Night Brewing
1308 Adams St
Stop scrolling. Start creating. Janvier Buggs, the EC's social media and content manager, grew her own brand woogirling to 34,000 followers across Instagram and TikTok, self-taught, by filming Nashville. She is bringing that to a hands-on hour: why short-form video works, what makes people stop scrolling, and the BUILD framework for making content on purpose. You leave with a video concept and B-roll shot on-site. No expertise, no camera. Bring your phone.
2:00 -
4:00 PM
Partner Popup
Emerging Defense Technology Forum
Tennessee State Library and Archives
1001 Rep. John Lewis Way N.
Founders from emerging defense technology startups will share their backgrounds, what pulled them into the space, and the ideas they are building around today’s toughest industry challenges. Expect a lively hour of real stories, sharp perspectives, and a closer look at where innovation in defense is heading.
3:00 -
4:00 PM
Partner Popup
Brewing Connections
Founders of Color Happy Hour
Monday Night Brewing
1308 Adams St
Founders Circles exists to help underrepresented entrepreneurs build relationships, access opportunities, and find support along the way. This happy hour makes room for real conversations and useful introductions, the kind that turn into collaborators, customers, mentors, and friends. Every Founders Circles program works on one of the three biggest gaps underrepresented founders face: capital, community, and representation.
4:00 -
6:00 PM
Partner Popup
AgeInnovate 2026
Startup Pitch Competition
Back Corner at Fifth & Taylor
1411 5th Ave N
Join us for AgeInnovate's 2026 live pitch competition. Three finalists take the stage to compete for a $25,000 investment from Community Equity Partners, judged live in front of Nashville's AgeTech community of founders, investors, and industry leaders.
AgeInnovate is Tennessee's AgeTech community, connecting founders building the future of aging and care with real local investment. In 2025, we moved $100K+ into AgeTech startups, including a $25,000 win for SpendCare.
4:30 -
6:00 PM
Partner Popup
Cowrite the Future:
Innovators in the Round
Monday Night Brewing
1308 Adams St
Borrowed from Nashville's songwriting rounds. Founders, researchers, and innovators interview one another about the problems they are solving and the collaborations that got them there.
Featuring Mark Norton (Adele Health), Kate O'Neil (Opre), Nikki Sanz (Giggs), and Ian Villa (Whisper Aero).
6:30 -
11:00 PM
Brooklyn Bowl
925 3rd Ave N
Close out 3686 Week in style at Startup Homecoming—an unforgettable celebration packed with capital, corsages, cover bands, and plenty of surprises. Relive the glory days with a killer ’90s cover band, then grab the mic yourself for live piano karaoke. Plus, cheer on the people and companies shaping Tennessee’s innovation ecosystem with yearbook-style honors spotlighting some of the best and most admired in the Tennessee entrepreneurial ecosystem… with delightfully arbitrary titles. Come ready to connect, celebrate, and cut loose with the 3686 crowd–no awkward slow dances required.
DAY 1
Monday, Sept. 14
3:30 -
5:30 PM
Kickoff Happy Hour
+ Early Badge Pickup
Presented By
Von Elrod’s Beer Hall & Kitchen
1004 4th Ave N
Kick off 3686 Week with cold drinks, great bites, and even better company. Join attendees from across Tennessee and all over the country for an opening happy hour in the heart of Germantown, featuring some of Nashville’s best local brews. Plus, get a head start by picking up your conference badge before a packed day of programming, connections, and big ideas on Tuesday.
DAY 2
Tuesday, Sept. 15
9:00 AM
Registration + Breakfast
Brooklyn Bowl
925 3rd Ave N
Start your 3686 day with coffee and breakfast bites to fuel up for all the conversations and connections ahead. Check in and grab your conference badge before diving into the day’s programming—and be sure to give yourself a few extra minutes, as all attendees must check-in and receive their badge before entering the conference.
9:00 AM
Swag Station
Brooklyn Bowl
925 3rd Ave N
Swing by the Swag Station to grab this year’s exclusive conference tote, featuring a collection of Tennessee icons and designed to carry a little Volunteer State spirit wherever you go. Trust us, you won't want to miss this.
9:00 AM
Photo Studio
Brooklyn Bowl
925 3rd Ave N
Ready for your close-up? Step into the 3686 Photo Studio, strike a pose, and walk away with a one-of-a-kind portrait perfect for your profile, your feed, or just showing off that 3686 energy.
9:00 AM
Work Lounge
Presented By
Brooklyn Bowl
925 3rd Ave N
We know—the workday doesn’t stop just because you’re at 3686. Duck into the Work Lounge to catch up on emails, take a call, or tackle a few to-dos, then get back out there and keep the momentum going.
9:30 AM -
3:30 PM
Connect Deck
Presented By
Brooklyn Bowl
925 3rd Ave N
Some of the biggest breakthroughs start with a simple conversation. Step out onto the Connect Deck for founder meetups, investor chats, customer calls, spontaneous introductions... or just a little fresh air. It's your outdoor hub for making connections—and making things happen.
9:30 AM -
3:30 PM
Brella 1-on-1s
Presented By
TailGate Brewery
915 3rd Ave N
Expand your network at 3686 with a little help from Brella. Use the app’s AI-powered recommendations to discover attendees to meet, then schedule one-on-one conversations throughout the day with founders, investors, service providers, and ecosystem leaders throughout the conference. Check Brella for personalized matches, available times, and meeting details—and turn a smart introduction into your next big connection.
9:30 AM -
3:30 PM
Cowrite the Future Photo Booth
Presented By
Brooklyn Bowl
915 3rd Ave N
Strike a pose in the Cowrite the Future selfie station, brought to you by the Nashville Innovation Alliance! 3 poses, 2 prints… and a whole lot of fun. Don't miss this fun, interactive experience to take photos with friends and share your innovation story with the Cowrite the Future cards.
10:00 AM -
11:00 AM
Future Themes of
Tennessee Innovation & Venture
Brooklyn Bowl
925 3rd Ave N
Defense tech and quantum technologies are among the emerging sectors reshaping Tennessee’s innovation economy. Explore these and other trends, opportunities, and forces—from new technologies to new sources of capital—that will define the next chapter of innovation and venture across the state, with insights from leading experts across key industries.
Oak Ridge National Laboratory
Shaun Gleason
Claritas & Blackbird Capital
John Gordon
U.S. Department of War
Gary Landuyt
Quantinuum
Ryan McKenney
U.S. Department of Energy
Frank Salomone
10:00 AM -
12:00 PM
Ask Me Anything Stage
Von Elrod’s Beer Hall & Kitchen
1004 4th Ave N
Back by popular demand, the Ask Me Anything Stage returns for another rapid-fire round of candid conversations with leaders, innovators, and game changers from across Tennessee and beyond. Bring your burning questions and hear directly from the people shaping what’s next as each featured guest takes the hot seat for a fast-paced, 15-minute AMA.
Tennessee Titans
Adolpho Birch
Rock Nashville/Clair Global
Robert Bull
MOJO Impact Collective
Monchiere’ Holmes-Jones
Nashville Post
Nicolle Praino
Nexus Leeds
Barry Singleton
Baker Donelson
Chris Sloan
10:00 AM -
12:30 PM
Startup Showcase
Von Elrod’s Beer Hall & Kitchen
1004 4th Ave N
See what Tennessee is building. The Startup Showcase puts some of the state’s most exciting startups, emerging technologies, and cutting-edge products front and center. Meet the founders bringing bold ideas to life, experience their innovations up close, and discover what’s next from across the Volunteer State.
11:00 -
11:30 AM
Building Built:
Constructing Nashville's Soaring Startup
Brooklyn Bowl
925 3rd Ave N
Great companies are built on more than capital—they’re built on relationships, conviction, and the right partners at the right time. Scott Sohr and Chase Gilbert will share the story of Canary Ventures and Built Technologies, exploring the early bets, lessons, and pivotal moments that helped turn a big idea into a category-defining company.
LaunchTN
Lindsey Cox
Built Technologies, Inc
Chase Gilbert
Canary Ventures
Scott Sohr
11:30 AM -
12:00 PM
Beyond the Spot:
A Fireside Chat With Metropolis
Brooklyn Bowl
925 3rd Ave N
Metropolis started with a simple idea: make parking better. What followed was a much bigger vision for how AI can transform the physical world. This intimate conversation will unpack the company’s journey—from early bets and breakthrough technology to rapid scale, bold expansion, and the opportunity ahead.
LaunchTN
Lindsey Cox
Metropolis
Courtney Fukuda
Assembly Ventures
Jessica Robinson
12:00 -
1:00 PM
Lunch
Presented By
Brooklyn Bowl
925 3rd Ave N
Grab a box lunch, pull up a seat, and keep the conversations going. Refuel, reconnect, and make a few new friends before diving into an action-packed afternoon at 3686.
1:00 -
2:00 PM
Tennessee's AI Transformation:
From Prompt To Power
Brooklyn Bowl
925 3rd Ave N
What does it take to turn AI’s enormous potential into real-world impact? Explore how Tennessee businesses are applying AI to solve complex challenges, create new opportunities, and reshape industries—and why the state is uniquely positioned as a national leader to shape what comes next.
Enterprise Sensor Systems
James Buck
AI Tennessee
Caleb Knight
NTT Data
Jude Olesh
IV.ai Solutions
Ines Voellinger
1:15 PM -
2:00 PM
From Research to Regeneration:
Meet NSF's Latest Innovation Engine
Von Elrod’s Beer Hall & Kitchen
1004 4th Ave N
A new model for innovation is taking shape across Tennessee and the Southeast. Explore how the NSF BRIDGES Engine is bringing together research, industry, capital, and communities to move breakthrough technologies from the lab to the market—and create new companies, jobs, and economic opportunity along the way.
University of Tennessee
Deborah Crawford
HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology
Sam Jackson
U.S. National Science Foundation
Joda Thongnopnua
ADgrow Tech
Travis Hedrick
2:00 PM -
2:45 PM
Built in Tennessee. Growing Worldwide.
Von Elrod’s Beer Hall & Kitchen
1004 4th Ave N
Skip the theory and hear from startup leaders who are actively building business beyond U.S. borders. Moderated by Brie Knox, Statewide Director for the U.S. Commercial Service, this conversation features Tennessee startups sharing what worked, what surprised them, and the lessons they learned entering international markets, as well as the resources they recommend to help accelerate your own global growth.
International Trade Administration
Brie Knox
CIS Power USA
Paul Bonovich
ViNIL
Charles Alexander
Tennessee Craft Spirits
David Pick
Tennessee Craft Spirits
David Pick
2:00 PM -
3:00 PM
Tennessee:
Where Creative Brands Thrive
Brooklyn Bowl
925 3rd Ave N
Great brands don’t just follow the playbook—they rewrite it. Hear how some of Tennessee’s most creative entrepreneurs have turned unconventional ideas, bold strategic bets, and a willingness to do things differently into businesses that stand out, scale, and endure. Plus, the advice they’d give to the innovators building what’s next.
Big Ears Festival
Ashley Capps
Joan of Arc Music
Cindy Mabe
imogene + willie
K.P. McNeill
The Peach Truck
Stephen & Jessica Rose
Nashville Business Journal
Eric Snyder
2:45 PM -
3:30 PM
Nashville Tech Studio:
Amplifying Civic Innovation
What if Nashville could turn its top challenges into its next big innovation opportunities? Go inside the Nashville Innovation Alliance’s Tech Studio to see how researchers and city leaders are collaborating to develop, test, and scale technology built to solve real problems.
Von Elrod’s Beer Hall & Kitchen
1004 4th Ave N
Institute for Software Integrated Systems
Will Barbour
Nashville Department of Transportation & Multimodal Infrastructure
Brad Freeze
Metropolitan of Nashville and Davidson County
Colleen Herndon
Vanderbilt University
Meiyi Ma
Metropolitan Nashville Department of Emergency Communications
Patrice Coleman
Vanderbilt University
George Wilson
3:00 -
4:00 PM
Capital Conversations
Presented By
Capital is more than a check—it's a strategy. Whether you're preparing to raise, exploring financing options, or simply looking to better understand Tennessee's funding ecosystem, this session will connect you with the people, programs, and partners helping startups grow. Learn about Launch Tennessee's $70 million InvestTN Fund, plus lending opportunities and financial guidance from Pinnacle Financial Partners and Pathway Lending.
Brooklyn Bowl
925 3rd Ave N
Greater Nashville Private Capital Association
Judith Byrd
Nashville Entrepreneur Center
Sam Davidon
Pathway Lending
Jarlecia Jones
LaunchTN
Eller Kelliher
Pinnacle Financial Partners
Tyler Morgan
4:00 -
5:30 PM
Pitch Competition
Presented By
Brooklyn Bowl
925 3rd Ave N
Big ideas. Bold pitches. High stakes. The fan-favorite 3686 Pitch Competition, presented by Amazon, returns as standout founders take the stage to showcase their companies before a panel of expert judges—and a packed crowd of investors, potential customers, and fellow innovators—for the chance to take home a $10,000 cash prize and a 12-month package from LUCID Private Offices. Then, cast your vote for the Audience Choice Award and help one founder score a 6-month package from LUCID Private Offices.
Market Square Ventures
Brandon Bruce
LaunchTN
Logan Leatherwood
SPARK Innovation Center
Chris McAdoo
Vanderbilt University
George Wilson
Tech Square Ventures
Jason Kuo
Beliade Consumer Partners
Whitney Williams
5:30 -
6:30 PM
Happy Hour Hangout
TailGate Brewery
915 3rd Ave N
That’s a wrap on a big day at 3686—now let’s raise a glass. Grab a drink, reconnect with familiar faces, toast new connections, and celebrate a day of big ideas and Tennessee innovation before heading out for a night in Music City.
Note: Happy Hour will end right in time for attendees who purchased the ticket add-on for the Nashville Sounds v. Memphis Redbirds Minor League Baseball game to make it to their seats for opening pitch.
6:35 PM
TN Innovation Night at the Ballpark: Nashville Sounds v. Memphis Redbirds
Presented By
First Horizon Park
1004 4th Ave N
Take 3686 out to the ballgame! Attendees who purchased an add-on ticket are invited to wrap up the day at First Horizon Park as the Nashville Sounds take on the Memphis Redbirds. Join your fellow 3686 attendees in a special reserved section of Paradise Park for a special night of Tennessee Minor League Baseball, Music City fun, and a few surprises along the way. Bring the team spirit—we’ll take care of the rest.
DAY 3
Wed, Sept 16
8:00 -
9:30 AM
Partner Popup
Brewing Connections
Founder Fuel Station
Monday Night Brewing
1308 Adams St
Your recharge stop during 3686 week. Coffee poured by Asulon Collective, plus Pitch Portraits, a free professional headshot for your next pitch or your LinkedIn profile. Built for founders, investors, advisors, and anyone in town for 3686 who wants to keep the momentum going.
8:30 -
9:15 AM
Partner Popup
Slow Flow Yoga Class
Werthan Building Plaza
601 Press Pl
Start your Wednesday with movement, mindfulness, and fresh air. Join our friends from Small World Yoga for an outdoor slow flow session designed to help you stretch, reset, and recharge before another packed day at 3686. Whether you're a seasoned yogi or still learning, all experience levels are welcome—just bring yourself and get ready to start the day feeling your best.
9:00 -
10:30 AM
Partner Popup
Lighthouse Open House
The Lighthouse
207 24th Ave N
Come check out the Lighthouse. We rarely open the doors to the public, so this is your shot! We’ll have a coffee truck from Paradeisos offering drinks. Grab something, walk around the space, and hangout with founders. No panels or agenda, just good people building in Nashville!
Cohosts include:
Derrick from FBT, Andrea from Rho, Tommy from Riverfront
9:30 -
11:30 AM
Partner Popup
Innovators Forum - AI Data Centers
Monday Night Brewing
1308 Adams St
Join a lively discussion on the impact of AI data center development. Communities are demanding a seat at the negotiating table. Nashville's Metro Council approved sweeping legislation to protect the community in July.
Guests will include: Ross Hamilton, Design Manager at global architecture firm Gensler; and Burkley Allen, mechanical engineer and at-Large Nashville Metro Council member.
The Innovators Forum explores AI, energy, and health and is co-hosted by Julia Polk of Curio and Dr. Reed Omary, a planetary care physician.
11:00 AM -
2:00 PM
Tech + Startup Job Fair
Brooklyn Bowl
915 3rd Ave N
This isn’t your typical career fair. New to 3686 this year, the Tech & Startup Job Fair connects Tennessee’s top talent with innovative startups, fast-growing companies, and industry-leading employers from across the state. Skip the booths and stiff handshakes for real conversations with companies building what’s next—all over brunch bites, drinks, and tunes from a live DJ. This is where connections become careers.
11:00 AM -
1:00 PM
Partner Popup
Preparing for and Raising Financing, Key Tech and AI Commercial Transactions, and Planning for Exit
Werthan Building
601 Taylor Pl
Join us for a lunch session led by the Nelson Mullins law firm, covering negotiation strategies for financings, exits and technology transactions. Topics include market terms for Safes, Convertible Notes, Preferred Stock; key M&A considerations; investor expectations for equity and IP protection; and AI and technology commercial transactions.
11:30 AM -
12:30 PM
Partner Popup
Brewing Connections
The New Moats: What Customer Behavior Reveals About Distribution, Community, and Taste
Monday Night Brewing
1308 Adams St
In this hands-on workshop, co-hosted by Jessica Murray and Melissa Jones, founders will learn how to interpret real-time customer behavior through the lenses of design, marketing, and operations — and use those insights to build smarter, more aligned experiences. We’ll explore how customer insights reveal hidden friction, operational inefficiencies and gaps in your user experience— and how to respond with intentional design decisions, clearer communication, and streamlined systems.
12:30 -
1:30 PM
Partner Popup
Brewing Connections
After the First Meeting: Demystifying Venture Financings from Intro to Close
Monday Night Brewing
1308 Adams St
Building a venture backed company comes with a distinct set of challenges with raising venture capital often being one of the most challenging. Join us for a discussion with early-stage investors and leading industry experts who will provide candid advice and insights into the fundraising process.
1:45 -
2:45 PM
Partner Popup
HILLTOP+ Spotlight:
Grid Innovation in Tennessee
Werthan Building
601 Taylor Pl
Join the Tennessee Advanced Energy Business Council, Tennessee Tech, the Knoxville Entrepreneur Center, and the Biz Foundry to take a deep dive into grid innovation in the Appalachian region. Hear from innovators and infrastructure developers and see a demo of HILLTOP+, a tool developed by Tennessee Tech to model new technologies in real time and provide utilities and startups with real data on how a new innovation will affect the grid.
1:45 -
2:45 PM
Partner Popup
Brewing Connections
Building in Public: An Interactive Social Media Workshop
Monday Night Brewing
1308 Adams St
Stop scrolling. Start creating. Janvier Buggs, the EC's social media and content manager, grew her own brand woogirling to 34,000 followers across Instagram and TikTok, self-taught, by filming Nashville. She is bringing that to a hands-on hour: why short-form video works, what makes people stop scrolling, and the BUILD framework for making content on purpose. You leave with a video concept and B-roll shot on-site. No expertise, no camera. Bring your phone.
2:00 -
4:00 PM
Partner Popup
Emerging Defense Technology Forum
Tennessee State Library and Archives
1001 Rep. John Lewis Way N.
Founders from emerging defense technology startups will share their backgrounds, what pulled them into the space, and the ideas they are building around today’s toughest industry challenges. Expect a lively hour of real stories, sharp perspectives, and a closer look at where innovation in defense is heading.
3:00 -
4:00 PM
Partner Popup
Brewing Connections
Founders of Color Happy Hour
Monday Night Brewing
1308 Adams St
Founders Circles exists to help underrepresented entrepreneurs build relationships, access opportunities, and find support along the way. This happy hour makes room for real conversations and useful introductions, the kind that turn into collaborators, customers, mentors, and friends. Every Founders Circles program works on one of the three biggest gaps underrepresented founders face: capital, community, and representation.
4:00 -
6:00 PM
Partner Popup
AgeInnovate 2026
Startup Pitch Competition
Back Corner at Fifth & Taylor
1411 5th Ave N
Join us for AgeInnovate's 2026 live pitch competition. Three finalists take the stage to compete for a $25,000 investment from Community Equity Partners, judged live in front of Nashville's AgeTech community of founders, investors, and industry leaders.
AgeInnovate is Tennessee's AgeTech community, connecting founders building the future of aging and care with real local investment. In 2025, we moved $100K+ into AgeTech startups, including a $25,000 win for SpendCare.
4:30 -
6:00 PM
Partner Popup
Cowrite the Future:
Innovators in the Round
Monday Night Brewing
1308 Adams St
Borrowed from Nashville's songwriting rounds. Founders, researchers, and innovators interview one another about the problems they are solving and the collaborations that got them there.
Featuring Mark Norton (Adele Health), Kate O'Neil (Opre), Nikki Sanz (Giggs), and Ian Villa (Whisper Aero).
6:30 -
11:00 PM
Brooklyn Bowl
925 3rd Ave N
Close out 3686 Week in style at Startup Homecoming—an unforgettable celebration packed with capital, corsages, cover bands, and plenty of surprises. Relive the glory days with a killer ’90s cover band, then grab the mic yourself for live piano karaoke. Plus, cheer on the people and companies shaping Tennessee’s innovation ecosystem with yearbook-style honors spotlighting some of the best and most admired in the Tennessee entrepreneurial ecosystem… with delightfully arbitrary titles. Come ready to connect, celebrate, and cut loose with the 3686 crowd–no awkward slow dances required.
DAY 1
Mon, Sept. 14
3:30 -
5:30 PM
Kickoff Happy Hour + Early Badge Pickup
Presented By
Von Elrod’s Beer Hall & Kitchen
1004 4th Ave N
Kick off 3686 Week with cold drinks, great bites, and even better company. Join attendees from across Tennessee and all over the country for an opening happy hour in the heart of Germantown, featuring some of Nashville’s best local brews. Plus, get a head start by picking up your conference badge before a packed day of programming, connections, and big ideas on Tuesday.
DAY 2
Tues, Sept. 15
9:00 AM
Registration + Breakfast
Brooklyn Bowl
925 3rd Ave N
Start your 3686 day with coffee and breakfast bites to fuel up for all the conversations and connections ahead. Check in and grab your conference badge before diving into the day’s programming—and be sure to give yourself a few extra minutes, as all attendees must check-in and receive their badge before entering the conference.
9:00 AM
Swag Station
Brooklyn Bowl
925 3rd Ave N
Swing by the Swag Station to grab this year’s exclusive conference tote, featuring a collection of Tennessee icons and designed to carry a little Volunteer State spirit wherever you go. Trust us, you won't want to miss this.
9:00 AM
Photo Studio
Brooklyn Bowl
925 3rd Ave N
Ready for your close-up? Step into the 3686 Photo Studio, strike a pose, and walk away with a one-of-a-kind portrait perfect for your profile, your feed, or just showing off that 3686 energy.
9:00 AM
Work Lounge
Presented By
Brooklyn Bowl
925 3rd Ave N
We know—the workday doesn’t stop just because you’re at 3686. Duck into the Work Lounge to catch up on emails, take a call, or tackle a few to-dos, then get back out there and keep the momentum going.
9:30 AM -
3:30 PM
Connect Deck
Presented By
Brooklyn Bowl
925 3rd Ave N
Some of the biggest breakthroughs start with a simple conversation. Step out onto the Connect Deck for founder meetups, investor chats, customer calls, spontaneous introductions... or just a little fresh air. It's your outdoor hub for making connections—and making things happen.
9:30 AM -
3:30 PM
Brella 1-on-1s
Presented By
TailGate Brewery
915 3rd Ave N
Expand your network at 3686 with a little help from Brella. Use the app’s AI-powered recommendations to discover attendees to meet, then schedule one-on-one conversations throughout the day with founders, investors, service providers, and ecosystem leaders throughout the conference. Check Brella for personalized matches, available times, and meeting details—and turn a smart introduction into your next big connection.
9:30 AM -
3:30 PM
Cowrite the Future Photo Booth
Presented By
Brooklyn Bowl
915 3rd Ave N
Strike a pose in the Cowrite the Future selfie station, brought to you by the Nashville Innovation Alliance! 3 poses, 2 prints… and a whole lot of fun. Don't miss this fun, interactive experience to take photos with friends and share your innovation story with the Cowrite the Future cards.
10:00 AM -
11:00 AM
Future Themes of
Tennessee Innovation & Venture
Brooklyn Bowl
925 3rd Ave N
Defense tech and quantum technologies are among the emerging sectors reshaping Tennessee’s innovation economy. Explore these and other trends, opportunities, and forces—from new technologies to new sources of capital—that will define the next chapter of innovation and venture across the state, with insights from leading experts across key industries.
Oak Ridge National Laboratory
Shaun Gleason
Claritas & Blackbird Capital
John Gordon
U.S. Department of War
Gary Landuyt
Quantinuum
Ryan McKenney
U.S. Department of Energy
Frank Salomone
10:00 AM -
12:00 PM
Ask Me Anything Stage
Von Elrod’s Beer Hall & Kitchen
1004 4th Ave N
Back by popular demand, the Ask Me Anything Stage returns for another rapid-fire round of candid conversations with leaders, innovators, and game changers from across Tennessee and beyond. Bring your burning questions and hear directly from the people shaping what’s next as each featured guest takes the hot seat for a fast-paced, 15-minute AMA.
Tennessee Titans
Adolpho Birch
Rock Nashville/Clair Global
Robert Bull
MOJO Impact Collective
Monchiere’ Holmes-Jones
Nashville Post
Nicolle Praino
Nexus Leeds
Barry Singleton
Baker Donelson
Chris Sloan
10:00 AM -
12:30 PM
Startup Showcase
Von Elrod’s Beer Hall & Kitchen
1004 4th Ave N
See what Tennessee is building. The Startup Showcase puts some of the state’s most exciting startups, emerging technologies, and cutting-edge products front and center. Meet the founders bringing bold ideas to life, experience their innovations up close, and discover what’s next from across the Volunteer State.
11:00 -
11:30 AM
Building Built:
Constructing Nashville's Soaring Startup
Brooklyn Bowl
925 3rd Ave N
Great companies are built on more than capital—they’re built on relationships, conviction, and the right partners at the right time. Scott Sohr and Chase Gilbert will share the story of Canary Ventures and Built Technologies, exploring the early bets, lessons, and pivotal moments that helped turn a big idea into a category-defining company.
LaunchTN
Lindsey Cox
Built Technologies, Inc
Chase Gilbert
Canary Ventures
Scott Sohr
11:30 AM -
12:00 PM
Beyond the Spot:
A Fireside Chat With Metropolis
Brooklyn Bowl
925 3rd Ave N
Metropolis started with a simple idea: make parking better. What followed was a much bigger vision for how AI can transform the physical world. This intimate conversation will unpack the company’s journey—from early bets and breakthrough technology to rapid scale, bold expansion, and the opportunity ahead.
LaunchTN
Lindsey Cox
Metropolis
Courtney Fukuda
Assembly Ventures
Jessica Robinson
12:00 -
1:00 PM
Lunch
Presented By
Brooklyn Bowl
925 3rd Ave N
Grab a box lunch, pull up a seat, and keep the conversations going. Refuel, reconnect, and make a few new friends before diving into an action-packed afternoon at 3686.
1:00 -
2:00 PM
Tennessee's AI Transformation:
From Prompt To Power
Brooklyn Bowl
925 3rd Ave N
What does it take to turn AI’s enormous potential into real-world impact? Explore how Tennessee businesses are applying AI to solve complex challenges, create new opportunities, and reshape industries—and why the state is uniquely positioned as a national leader to shape what comes next.
Enterprise Sensor Systems
James Buck
AI Tennessee
Caleb Knight
NTT Data
Jude Olesh
IV.ai Solutions
Ines Voellinger
1:15 PM -
2:00 PM
From Research to Regeneration:
Meet NSF's Latest Innovation Engine
Von Elrod’s Beer Hall & Kitchen
1004 4th Ave N
A new model for innovation is taking shape across Tennessee and the Southeast. Explore how the NSF BRIDGES Engine is bringing together research, industry, capital, and communities to move breakthrough technologies from the lab to the market—and create new companies, jobs, and economic opportunity along the way.
University of Tennessee
Deborah Crawford
HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology
Sam Jackson
U.S. National Science Foundation
Joda Thongnopnua
ADgrow Tech
Travis Hedrick
2:00 PM -
2:45 PM
Built in Tennessee. Growing Worldwide.
Von Elrod’s Beer Hall & Kitchen
1004 4th Ave N
Skip the theory and hear from startup leaders who are actively building business beyond U.S. borders. Moderated by Brie Knox, Statewide Director for the U.S. Commercial Service, this conversation features Tennessee startups sharing what worked, what surprised them, and the lessons they learned entering international markets, as well as the resources they recommend to help accelerate your own global growth.
International Trade Administration
Brie Knox
CIS Power USA
Paul Bonovich
ViNIL
Charles Alexander
Tennessee Craft Spirits
David Pick
Tennessee Craft Spirits
David Pick
2:00 PM -
3:00 PM
Tennessee:
Where Creative Brands Thrive
Brooklyn Bowl
925 3rd Ave N
Great brands don’t just follow the playbook—they rewrite it. Hear how some of Tennessee’s most creative entrepreneurs have turned unconventional ideas, bold strategic bets, and a willingness to do things differently into businesses that stand out, scale, and endure. Plus, the advice they’d give to the innovators building what’s next.
Big Ears Festival
Ashley Capps
Joan of Arc Music
Cindy Mabe
imogene + willie
K.P. McNeill
The Peach Truck
Stephen & Jessica Rose
Nashville Business Journal
Eric Snyder
2:45 PM -
3:30 PM
Nashville Tech Studio:
Amplifying Civic Innovation
What if Nashville could turn its top challenges into its next big innovation opportunities? Go inside the Nashville Innovation Alliance’s Tech Studio to see how researchers and city leaders are collaborating to develop, test, and scale technology built to solve real problems.
Von Elrod’s Beer Hall & Kitchen
1004 4th Ave N
Institute for Software Integrated Systems
Will Barbour
Nashville Department of Transportation & Multimodal Infrastructure
Brad Freeze
Metropolitan of Nashville and Davidson County
Colleen Herndon
Vanderbilt University
Meiyi Ma
Metropolitan Nashville Department of Emergency Communications
Patrice Coleman
Vanderbilt University
George Wilson
3:00 -
4:00 PM
Capital Conversations
Presented By
Capital is more than a check—it's a strategy. Whether you're preparing to raise, exploring financing options, or simply looking to better understand Tennessee's funding ecosystem, this session will connect you with the people, programs, and partners helping startups grow. Learn about Launch Tennessee's $70 million InvestTN Fund, plus lending opportunities and financial guidance from Pinnacle Financial Partners and Pathway Lending.
Brooklyn Bowl
925 3rd Ave N
Greater Nashville Private Capital Association
Judith Byrd
Nashville Entrepreneur Center
Sam Davidon
Pathway Lending
Jarlecia Jones
LaunchTN
Eller Kelliher
Pinnacle Financial Partners
Tyler Morgan
4:00 -
5:30 PM
Pitch Competition
Presented By
Brooklyn Bowl
925 3rd Ave N
Big ideas. Bold pitches. High stakes. The fan-favorite 3686 Pitch Competition, presented by Amazon, returns as standout founders take the stage to showcase their companies before a panel of expert judges—and a packed crowd of investors, potential customers, and fellow innovators—for the chance to take home a $10,000 cash prize and a 12-month package from LUCID Private Offices. Then, cast your vote for the Audience Choice Award and help one founder score a 6-month package from LUCID Private Offices.
Market Square Ventures
Brandon Bruce
LaunchTN
Logan Leatherwood
SPARK Innovation Center
Chris McAdoo
Vanderbilt University
George Wilson
Tech Square Ventures
Jason Kuo
Beliade Consumer Partners
Whitney Williams
5:30 -
6:30 PM
Happy Hour Hangout
TailGate Brewery
915 3rd Ave N
That’s a wrap on a big day at 3686—now let’s raise a glass. Grab a drink, reconnect with familiar faces, toast new connections, and celebrate a day of big ideas and Tennessee innovation before heading out for a night in Music City.
Note: Happy Hour will end right in time for attendees who purchased the ticket add-on for the Nashville Sounds v. Memphis Redbirds Minor League Baseball game to make it to their seats for opening pitch.
6:35 PM
TN Innovation Night at the Ballpark: Nashville Sounds v. Memphis Redbirds
Presented By
First Horizon Park
1004 4th Ave N
Take 3686 out to the ballgame! Attendees who purchased an add-on ticket are invited to wrap up the day at First Horizon Park as the Nashville Sounds take on the Memphis Redbirds. Join your fellow 3686 attendees in a special reserved section of Paradise Park for a special night of Tennessee Minor League Baseball, Music City fun, and a few surprises along the way. Bring the team spirit—we’ll take care of the rest.
DAY 3
Wed, Sept 16
8:00 -
9:30 AM
Partner Popup
Brewing Connections
Founder Fuel Station
Monday Night Brewing
1308 Adams St
Your recharge stop during 3686 week. Coffee poured by Asulon Collective, plus Pitch Portraits, a free professional headshot for your next pitch or your LinkedIn profile. Built for founders, investors, advisors, and anyone in town for 3686 who wants to keep the momentum going.
8:30 -
9:15 AM
Partner Popup
Slow Flow Yoga Class
Werthan Building Plaza
601 Press Pl
Start your Wednesday with movement, mindfulness, and fresh air. Join our friends from Small World Yoga for an outdoor slow flow session designed to help you stretch, reset, and recharge before another packed day at 3686. Whether you're a seasoned yogi or still learning, all experience levels are welcome—just bring yourself and get ready to start the day feeling your best.
9:00 -
10:30 AM
Partner Popup
Lighthouse Open House
The Lighthouse
207 24th Ave N
Come check out the Lighthouse. We rarely open the doors to the public, so this is your shot! We’ll have a coffee truck from Paradeisos offering drinks. Grab something, walk around the space, and hangout with founders. No panels or agenda, just good people building in Nashville!
Cohosts include:
Derrick from FBT, Andrea from Rho, Tommy from Riverfront
9:30 -
11:30 AM
Partner Popup
Innovators Forum - AI Data Centers
Monday Night Brewing
1308 Adams St
Join a lively discussion on the impact of AI data center development. Communities are demanding a seat at the negotiating table. Nashville's Metro Council approved sweeping legislation to protect the community in July.
Guests will include: Ross Hamilton, Design Manager at global architecture firm Gensler; and Burkley Allen, mechanical engineer and at-Large Nashville Metro Council member.
The Innovators Forum explores AI, energy, and health and is co-hosted by Julia Polk of Curio and Dr. Reed Omary, a planetary care physician.
11:00 AM -
2:00 PM
Tech + Startup
Job Fair
Brooklyn Bowl
915 3rd Ave N
This isn’t your typical career fair. New to 3686 this year, the Tech & Startup Job Fair connects Tennessee’s top talent with innovative startups, fast-growing companies, and industry-leading employers from across the state. Skip the booths and stiff handshakes for real conversations with companies building what’s next—all over brunch bites, drinks, and tunes from a live DJ. This is where connections become careers.
11:00 AM -
1:00 PM
Partner Popup
Preparing for and Raising Financing, Key Tech and AI Commercial Transactions, and Planning for Exit
Werthan Building
601 Taylor Pl
Join us for a lunch session led by the Nelson Mullins law firm, covering negotiation strategies for financings, exits and technology transactions. Topics include market terms for Safes, Convertible Notes, Preferred Stock; key M&A considerations; investor expectations for equity and IP protection; and AI and technology commercial transactions.
11:30 AM -
12:30 PM
Partner Popup
Brewing Connections
The New Moats: What Customer Behavior Reveals About Distribution, Community, and Taste
Monday Night Brewing
1308 Adams St
In this hands-on workshop, co-hosted by Jessica Murray and Melissa Jones, founders will learn how to interpret real-time customer behavior through the lenses of design, marketing, and operations — and use those insights to build smarter, more aligned experiences. We’ll explore how customer insights reveal hidden friction, operational inefficiencies and gaps in your user experience— and how to respond with intentional design decisions, clearer communication, and streamlined systems.
12:30 -
1:30 PM
Partner Popup
Brewing Connections
After the First Meeting: Demystifying Venture Financings from Intro to Close
Monday Night Brewing
1308 Adams St
Building a venture backed company comes with a distinct set of challenges with raising venture capital often being one of the most challenging. Join us for a discussion with early-stage investors and leading industry experts who will provide candid advice and insights into the fundraising process.
1:45 -
2:45 PM
Partner Popup
HILLTOP+ Spotlight:
Grid Innovation in Tennessee
Werthan Building
601 Taylor Pl
Join the Tennessee Advanced Energy Business Council, Tennessee Tech, the Knoxville Entrepreneur Center, and the Biz Foundry to take a deep dive into grid innovation in the Appalachian region. Hear from innovators and infrastructure developers and see a demo of HILLTOP+, a tool developed by Tennessee Tech to model new technologies in real time and provide utilities and startups with real data on how a new innovation will affect the grid.
1:45 -
2:45 PM
Partner Popup
Brewing Connections
Building in Public: An Interactive Social Media Workshop
Monday Night Brewing
1308 Adams St
Stop scrolling. Start creating. Janvier Buggs, the EC's social media and content manager, grew her own brand woogirling to 34,000 followers across Instagram and TikTok, self-taught, by filming Nashville. She is bringing that to a hands-on hour: why short-form video works, what makes people stop scrolling, and the BUILD framework for making content on purpose. You leave with a video concept and B-roll shot on-site. No expertise, no camera. Bring your phone.
2:00 -
4:00 PM
Partner Popup
Emerging Defense Technology Forum
Tennessee State Library and Archives
1001 Rep. John Lewis Way N.
Founders from emerging defense technology startups will share their backgrounds, what pulled them into the space, and the ideas they are building around today’s toughest industry challenges. Expect a lively hour of real stories, sharp perspectives, and a closer look at where innovation in defense is heading.
3:00 -
4:00 PM
Partner Popup
Brewing Connections
Founders of Color Happy Hour
Monday Night Brewing
1308 Adams St
Founders Circles exists to help underrepresented entrepreneurs build relationships, access opportunities, and find support along the way. This happy hour makes room for real conversations and useful introductions, the kind that turn into collaborators, customers, mentors, and friends. Every Founders Circles program works on one of the three biggest gaps underrepresented founders face: capital, community, and representation.
4:00 -
6:00 PM
Partner Popup
AgeInnovate 2026
Startup Pitch Competition
Back Corner at Fifth & Taylor
1411 5th Ave N
Join us for AgeInnovate's 2026 live pitch competition. Three finalists take the stage to compete for a $25,000 investment from Community Equity Partners, judged live in front of Nashville's AgeTech community of founders, investors, and industry leaders.
AgeInnovate is Tennessee's AgeTech community, connecting founders building the future of aging and care with real local investment. In 2025, we moved $100K+ into AgeTech startups, including a $25,000 win for SpendCare.
4:30 -
6:00 PM
Partner Popup
Cowrite the Future:
Innovators in the Round
Monday Night Brewing
1308 Adams St
Borrowed from Nashville's songwriting rounds. Founders, researchers, and innovators interview one another about the problems they are solving and the collaborations that got them there.
Featuring Mark Norton (Adele Health), Kate O'Neil (Opre), Nikki Sanz (Giggs), and Ian Villa (Whisper Aero).
6:30 -
11:00 PM
Brooklyn Bowl
925 3rd Ave N
Close out 3686 Week in style at Startup Homecoming—an unforgettable celebration packed with capital, corsages, cover bands, and plenty of surprises. Relive the glory days with a killer ’90s cover band, then grab the mic yourself for live piano karaoke. Plus, cheer on the people and companies shaping Tennessee’s innovation ecosystem with yearbook-style honors spotlighting some of the best and most admired in the Tennessee entrepreneurial ecosystem… with delightfully arbitrary titles. Come ready to connect, celebrate, and cut loose with the 3686 crowd–no awkward slow dances required.