Gamechangers & Champions 2026: A Bracket Bash For Innovators and Angels
Gamechangers and Champions 2026 brings together startups, angel investors, corporate innovation leaders, and ecosystem stakeholders from across Kansas for a full day of activation, education, networking, and competition. Presented by the Kansas Department of Commerce, NXTUS, and KU Innovation Park, the event is designed to catalyze new angel investments, support early-stage companies, and accelerate Kansas’s innovation momentum.
Taking place at KU's new football stadium, the day begins with breakfast and networking, recognizing the business community and startup ecosystem driving innovation across the state. The Innovative Eight finalists will pitch before the event transitions into two parallel breakout tracks, one for startups and one for angel investors and corporate leaders, featuring targeted panels and workshops. Throughout the day, attendees can gather in the Business & Basketball Lounge to network and enjoy interactive activities like pop-a-shot.
The event concludes with a keynote presentation from Neal Sharma, CEO and Co-Founder of DEG, and Vice President of the KC FIFA World Cup. Following the keynote, the Top Four pitch competition will take place, where startups will present live. Winners will be selected in real time and awarded $25,000 in prize funding sponsored by the University of Kansas School of Business, along with a $2,500 Fans' Choice Award sponsored by Wichita State University's Barton School of Business.
Following the event, NXTUS, Accelerate Venture Partners, and the OREAD Angel Group will coordinate follow-on investment opportunities. A closing networking happy hour will wrap up the day.
View the full detailed event schedule here: https://www.nxtus.io/gamechangers-champions-2026-schedule
Whether you’re an investor, startup, or innovator, don’t miss out on this game-changing event for our entrepreneurial ecosystem—grab your tickets now!