Future Forward Summit
Event Description
The Future Forward Summit is the centerpiece of Innovation Weekend—a full-day gathering where tech founders, investors, and ecosystem builders come together with thought leaders to explore what’s next in innovation. The day features inspiring keynotes, candid conversations, and interactive workshops designed to spark new ideas, challenge assumptions, and surface real opportunities for growth.
Event Schedule
9:15 AM: Doors Open
9:15 -10:00 AM: Breakfast and Networking
10:00-10:15 AM: Welcome and Opening Remarks
Aize Asowata, emcee
Danae Mobley, Executive Director, 1Philadelphia
10:15 - 11:00 AM: Disruption, Resilience, and Reinvention: A Conversation with Stacy Spikes moderated by Will Toms
This fireside chat will spotlight Stacy Spikes—visionary entrepreneur, co-founder & CEO of MoviePass, and author of Black Founder. In conversation with moderator Will Toms, co-founder of REC Philly, Stacy will share insights on disrupting entrenched industries, navigating setbacks and reinvention, and creating access to cultural and entrepreneurial opportunities. The session will inspire founders, creatives, and innovators to think boldly about disruption, resilience, and building inclusive futures.
11:15 AM - 12:15 PM: Morning Breakouts
Operational IQ: Adapting at the Speed of Change
The Growth Code: Unlocking Value in the Age of AI
The Next Newsroom: Where Tech & Journalism Collide
12:15 - 1:45 PM: Lunch & Networking
2:00 - 3:15 PM: Afternoon Breakout 1
The Fundraising Reset: What Investors are Seeing Now
The Founder’s Path in Health Innovation
Philly Versus: Tech Ecosystem Lessons from Paris, Silicon Valley, and Austin
3:30 - 4:45 PM: Afternoon Breakout 2
Unlocking Hidden Brand Opportunities to Grow Revenue
The Founder’s Ops Playbook
Beyond the Pitch: Rethinking How Founders Fund Growth
5:00 - 6:30 PM: Summit Reception
Special Thanks to Our Sponsors
Innovation Weekend 2025 is made possible with support from our generous sponsors, including:
City of Philadelphia
Halloran Philanthropies
SAP
Comcast LIFT Labs
Accenture
Google
The Chamber of Commerce of Greater Philadelphia
United Effects Ventures
City of Philadelphia Department of Commerce
Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Southeastern Pennsylvania
Penn Medicine Wharton Fund for Health
University City Science Center
About 1Philadelphia
1Philadelphia is a coalition of public and private stakeholders working to build a tech community where everyone can thrive. Our goal is to elevate the city’s position as a hub for innovation through community cultivation, talent development and entrepreneurial investment.
Media and Photography Disclosure
By registering for this event, attendees agree to granting permission for their image, likeness, and voice to be recorded on audio or video without payment or other consideration. These recordings may be edited, copied, exhibited, published, or distributed, and waive the right to inspect or approve any finished product in which their likeness appears. Attendees also waive any right to royalties or other compensation related to the use of their image or recordings. This material may be used in various educational and promotional settings across an unrestricted geographic area.