Realist Lab's Spark Awards & #CTTechWeek Kickoff Party

​Join us for the Realist Lab Spark Awards, an evening recognizing the founders, builders, and community leaders shaping Connecticut's innovation ecosystem.

​This isn't a traditional awards ceremony. It's a room full of people doing the work — building companies, creating access, and moving ideas forward across the state. If you're building, investing, supporting, or simply want to be closer to what's happening in Connecticut, this is where the week begins.

​What to Expect

• ​Awards honoring leaders across Connecticut's innovation ecosystem

• ​Networking with founders, investors, and community builders

• ​Live DJ, great food, and cocktails

• ​A high-energy launch to an incredible week of tech programming

​Dress Code: Semi-Formal

​Event Schedule

• ​4:30 PM — CT Tech Week Press Conference (VIP)

• ​5:00 PM — VIP Reception (VIP only)

• ​6:00 PM — Doors Open

• ​6:00–9:00 PM — Spark Awards Program

​Tickets All tickets include one complimentary drink, cocktail hour, and the awards program. Early Bird pricing ends April 30.

• ​$75 — Realist Lab Alumni

• ​$150 — Early Bird General Admission (ends April 30)

• ​$225 — Early Bird VIP (ends April 30) — includes VIP reception and swag bag

• ​$225 — General Admission

• ​$300 — VIP Admission — includes VIP reception and swag bag

​This event is Realist Lab's annual fundraiser. Proceeds directly support the programs and resources that help early-stage founders grow and thrive, including the Venture Launch Fellowship.

​About CT Tech Week This event kicks off CT Tech Week, a series of initiatives bringing together Connecticut's tech ecosystem — hosted by nonprofits, the City of Stamford, VCs, and startups. #CTTechWeek

​About Realist Lab 

​Realist Lab is a 501(c)(3), mission-driven organization dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs and changemakers through education, mentorship, and community. Through programs like the Venture Launch Fellowship, we cultivate a thriving ecosystem for underrepresented founders — giving them the tools, connections, and resources to build sustainable, impactful businesses.

​Media Consent By attending this event, you consent to photography, video, and audio recording. Your presence may be captured and used for promotional purposes, including on websites, social media, and in advertising. Attendance serves as your release of any claims related to the use of recorded media.