Pre-Seed-->Early Growth @ CES

​Where Innovation Meets Identity.

​Join us at CES for an evening bringing together engineers, founders, investors, and operators building the next generation of technology companies. This is a focused, high-signal gathering designed for people operating in the early stages - where capital, execution, and partnerships matter more than hype.

​Hosted in partnership with Elev X! - NEC X’s venture studio backed by global technology leader NEC: this event connects early-stage founders with investors, corporate innovators, and ecosystem partners who engage early and build long-term. The emphasis is on meaningful connection, practical insight, and real opportunity.

​Who Should Attend

• ​Founders: pre-seed to early growth looking to raise, refine, scale

• ​Angels, VCs, and Operators: active in early-stage investing and company building

• ​Engineers and technologists: working across AI, mobility, sustainability, and consumer tech

• ​CES attendees: seeking access, outcomes, and substance beyond the show floor

​What to Expect

• ​A candid fireside chat with founders, investors, and operators who have navigated early inflection points

• ​Short founder pitch showcases

• ​High-intent networking with founders, operators, and ecosystem partners

​Startup Pitches

• ​​​3-4 selected early-stage startups will take the stage to pitch their ventures. If you're interested in pitching, apply from here by January 6, 2026 at 9:00pm PT.

  • ​​​​​🕰️ Pitch Format: 3-minute pitch per startup.

  • ​​​​​⚠️ To apply for the pitch opportunity, please complete both the Event Registration from this page AND the application form.

​About the pitches:
This is not a demo day or competition. There are no judges, no prizes, and no live fundraising. Pitches are meant to share what you are building, get visibility, and spark conversations.

​CES is the backdrop. This room is where early growth takes shape!

​Hosts

​Elev X! is NEC X’s venture studio program supporting early-stage startups. Backed by NEC, a global technology leader, Elev X! helps founders accelerate from idea to impact through collaboration, pilots, and global connections.

​American South Asian Network (ASAN) is the leading platform powering South Asian progress across the United States. We elevate, empower, and unite a rising generation of South Asian creators, entrepreneurs, executives, and change-makers through community, culture, and capital!
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