Innovation Matchmaking
BRAND FUSION
2026
Where Fortune 500 Brands Meet Game-Changing Startups
October 6–7, 2026 · Cincinnati, Ohio
What is Brand Fusion?
Brand Fusion is a curated matchmaking event that connects Fortune 500 brand leaders with innovative startups through structured 15-minute meetings. Since 2012, we've brought together the brightest minds in brand innovation and startup technology to forge partnerships that drive real business results.
Brands submit their toughest business challenges. Venture capitalists and accelerators nominate their most relevant startups. Our team personally curates each pairing, drawing on deep knowledge of both sides to create a full day of high-impact meetings.
Trusted by leading brands
For Brands
Submit your business challenges and meet pre-vetted startups hand-picked to solve them. Discover cutting-edge technology, explore partnerships, and stay ahead of the innovation curve — all in one day.
For Startups
Get face-to-face with decision-makers from the world's biggest brands. Each 15-minute meeting is a chance to demo your solution, build relationships, and close deals with companies that can transform your growth trajectory.
10+
Years of Innovation
3,754+
Meetings Held
240+
Brands Participated
411+
Startups Showcased
Photos & Videos
Password for videos is BF
Brand Fusion Overview
Brand Fusion Highlights
Brand Fusion 2026
When & Where
October 6 – 7, 2026
Cincinnati, Ohio
Day 1: Welcome Dinner
Day 2: Matchmaking Sessions
Know Before You Go
Venues, travel, dress code, hotel, and everything else you need for the event.
View DetailsEvent Agenda
Day 1 — Welcome Dinner
Tuesday, October 6, 2026
SparkHaus · 727 Madison Ave, Covington KY
5:00 PM
Welcome Dinner Drinks
6:00 PM
Welcome Dinner
6:00 PM
Welcome Dinner Bourbon Tasting
7:00 PM
Welcome Dinner Desserts
Day 2 — Matchmaking Day
Wednesday, October 7, 2026
TQL Stadium · 1508 John St, Cincinnati OH
7:30 AM
Registration Begins
7:30 AM
Breakfast in Tunnel Club
8:15 AM
Welcome / Kickoff in Tunnel Club
8:40 AM – 12:45 PM
Brand & Startup Meetings in Suites
10:35 – 10:50 AM
Snack Break
12:45 – 2:00 PM
Closing Lunch in Tunnel Club
What Participants Say
“Brand Fusion is unique in its approach — Dave brings together innovators and decision makers from major brands in an efficient, friendly format that few small startups get access to.”
Sim Blaustein
investor“This was our best event in 2023 in terms of sales pipeline — we came out with 6 new enterprise customer opportunities. The structure of having customer pain points ahead of time made it incredibly productive.”
Ben Person
startup“One of the most innovative brand and startup formats I've experienced. I was surprised how productive these conversations can be — I'd highly recommend this to any brand looking for fresh ideas.”
Jeff Anderson
brand“It was clear that you've built something unique, everyone showed up to be transparent and either take a next step or connect the dots to the right person. This was my favorite speed dating event and I've been to more than a few!”
Lee Waldvogel
brand“Brand Fusion was incredibly valuable. I've attended over 100+ trade shows and networking events in my career, and this is up there as the best I've ever attended.”
Peter Ricca
startupCo-Hosted By
Northern Kentucky's Innovation Hub, connecting entrepreneurs and startups with the resources to grow.
Venture and growth equity firm investing in technology-driven businesses.
Cincinnati's startup ecosystem catalyst connecting corporations with emerging technology.
Ready to Innovate?
Whether you're a Fortune 500 brand looking for cutting-edge solutions or an innovative startup ready to scale — Brand Fusion is where the magic happens.