​Every startup begins with an idea, but turning that idea into a thriving business requires so much more than great innovation or solution.

​Join NVTC and KPMG as we kick off the 2026 Starting Point series with an honest conversation about what it really takes to launch, fund, and grow a successful company.

​Hear from experienced founders and investors. They will share firsthand perspectives on:

• ​securing capital,

• ​building investor confidence, and

• ​navigating the realities of startup growth.

​From crafting a compelling story to managing expectations after funding, this session will provide practical insights every founder should understand.

​Speakers

​Mark Frantz
Co-founder of Blue Delta Capital Partners

​Charlie Reardon
Sr. Managing Director of Asgaard Capital

​John Reardon
Audit Managing Director of KPMG

​Parking and Transportation

• ​Colonial Parking in the building (entrance at 1667 Silver Hill Drive, McLean, VA 22102) is open 24 hours a day, with a daily maximum rate of $8.

• ​The building is a 4-minute walk from the Greensboro Metro Station (Silver Line).

​Food&Beverage

​Breakfast will be provided.

​About Northern Virginia Technology Council (NVTC)

​The Northern Virginia Technology Council (NVTC) convenes and champions the region’s tech community to advance innovation, build a future-ready workforce, and drive economic and societal impact. Representing one of the world’s most dynamic technology ecosystems, NVTC connects leaders across business, government, academia, and the nonprofit sector to foster collaboration, strengthen competitiveness, and accelerate innovation. Through advocacy, networking, workforce initiatives, and strategic partnerships, NVTC helps fuel innovation that shapes the future. Learn more at nvtc.org.

​About KPMG

​KPMG is a global professional services organization that provides audit, tax, and advisory services to businesses, governments, and other organizations across a wide range of industries. As one of the world’s largest professional services networks, KPMG helps clients address complex challenges involving financial reporting, risk management, technology, cybersecurity, digital transformation, regulatory compliance, and business strategy. The firm combines industry knowledge with data, technology, and professional expertise to help organizations improve performance, manage risk, and adapt to changing market conditions. With operations in numerous countries and territories, KPMG serves organizations ranging from emerging businesses to large multinational corporations.

​About Station Alpha

​Station Alpha is a growth and market-entry partner for ambitious companies ready to expand, connect, and scale. We help businesses refine their story, land in the United States, connect with the right investors and customers, and grow into the companies they're meant to be. We operate at the intersection of capital, judgment, and community. We don't just make introductions—we help build conviction, strengthen positioning, and create the relationships that drive meaningful outcomes. Our mission is to connect exceptional businesses with the people, resources, and opportunities they need to become inevitable.

​You'll walk away with

• ​Strategies for building a compelling vision that attracts investors.

• ​Best practices for maintaining transparency and trust throughout your fundraising journey.

• ​Real-world lessons on common startup pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• ​An understanding of what happens when growth doesn't go as planned, and why restructuring can be an opportunity for a stronger future.

​Whether you're preparing to raise your first round of funding or looking to better navigate the startup lifecycle, this session will equip you with actionable advice from leaders who have been there.

​Next

​This is the first event in NVTC's 2026 Starting Point series, powered by KPMG. This three-event series delivers valuable insights and exceptional networking opportunities to accelerate the growth of tech startups, early-stage companies, and small businesses.