2026 Environmental Sustainability Entrepreneurship Program Summit

​How entrepreneurs are turning environmental challenges into lasting impact?

​This free event, also known as “the Summit,” brings together Denver-area entrepreneurs — whose focus is on building environmental products or services — for an evening of live pitches and community connection. Marking the culmination of the 2026 Environmental Sustainability Entrepreneurship Program, this event will celebrate impact-driven entrepreneurs in the Denver metro area.

​Hear directly from a lineup of local founders as they share their journeys of growth and impact. Connect with key leaders and community members, and discover new businesses, ideas, and opportunities for partnerships and collaboration in the environmental entrepreneurship space.

• ​If you care about the Denver ecosystem and environment you’ll leave with a clear, hopeful look at how the local people are driving environmental change and ways you can get involved

• ​If you invest or lead a business you’ll connect with impact-driven businesses and the founders leading them

• ​If you're building something yourself you’ll meet people who've been where you are and can point you in the right direction

• ​And if you're just curious, you'll walk away with new perspectives and a few new names in your phone!

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​Who Should Attend

• ​Entrepreneurs building environmental sustainability-focused ventures

• ​Investors interested in impact-driven environmental businesses

• ​Community builders and local leaders working in the  environmental sector or social impact space

• ​Students and emerging leaders interested in environmental entrepreneurship or sustainability

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​What to Expect

​🤝 Networking & 🎤Live Pitches:

• ​Hear directly from Denver-based entrepreneurs as they take the stage to share the environmental challenges they’re tackling and the businesses they’re building to address them

• ​Learn about the Environmental Sustainability Entrepreneurship Program and ways to be involved: as a future applicant, mentor, facilitator, or supporter

• ​Enjoy free appetizers and light refreshments

• ​Giveaways, vendor booths, and more!

• ​Connect with founders and community leaders across Denver

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​RSVP
This event is free, but seats are extremely limited. Please only RSVP if you're able to attend in-person in Denver, as we want to keep space open for those who can make it.

​About the Environmental Sustainability Entrepreneurship Program
Powered by Watson Institute and funded by the JPMorganChase Foundation, the Environmental Sustainability Entrepreneurship Program empowers impact-driven, underserved entrepreneurs who are creating environmental products and services. The program provides environmental entrepreneurship training, committed mentorship, Impact Series Workshops, and an extensive network of peers, impact investors, and opportunities. Through this no cost program, we support both nonprofit and for-profit entrepreneurs in the Denver metro area. This year's cohort has already raised over $229,000 in funding and created 68+ jobs.

​About Watson Institute
In partnership with JPMorganChase Foundation, Google, Wells Fargo, Ford Philanthropy, SAP, Truist Foundation, BMO, Comcast, Western Union, and several private foundations, Watson Institute powers transformative Fellowships for highly promising entrepreneurs and leaders, primarily from historically disenfranchised backgrounds, leading forward impact-driven ventures or solutions.

​Media Consent
By registering for this event, you acknowledge and agree that photographs and video footage may be taken. These materials may be used by Watson Institute for marketing, social media, and promotional purposes.

​Communications
By providing your information, you agree to receive communications related to this event.