Know Before You Go
Everything you need to know for Brand Fusion 2026 — October 6–7 in Cincinnati, Ohio.
Quick Reference
Day 1 — Welcome Dinner
Tuesday, October 6, 2026
SparkHaus · 727 Madison Ave, Covington KY
Starting at 5:00 PM
Day 2 — Matchmaking Day
Wednesday, October 7, 2026
TQL Stadium · 1508 John St, Cincinnati OH
Registration at 7:30 AM
Preferred Hotel
Hotel Covington
638 Madison Ave, Covington KY 41011
Airport
CVG (Cincinnati/NKY)
~15 min from event venues
Rate Your Meetings
During Matchmaking Day, rate each meeting and tell us which startups you want to follow up with. Your feedback shapes the post-event summary report.
Event Overview
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. Our team personally curates each pairing, drawing on deep knowledge of both sides to create a full day of high-impact meetings.
When is Brand Fusion 2026?
Brand Fusion 2026 takes place over two days: a Welcome Dinner on Tuesday, October 6, and a full Matchmaking Day on Wednesday, October 7, 2026.
Who should attend?
Brand Fusion is designed for brand-side marketing and innovation leaders, startup founders and executives, and venture capitalists / accelerator partners who nominate startups.
Venues & Locations
Where is the Welcome Dinner (Day 1)?
The Welcome Dinner is held at SparkHaus, 727 Madison Ave, Covington, KY. It's walkable from Hotel Covington.
Where is Matchmaking Day (Day 2)?
Matchmaking Day takes place at TQL Stadium, 1508 John St, Cincinnati, OH. Brand-startup meetings are held in the stadium's private suites, with meals and kickoff in the Tunnel Club.
How far apart are the venues?
SparkHaus and TQL Stadium are both within a short drive of Hotel Covington. SparkHaus is walkable from the hotel. TQL Stadium is approximately a 5-minute drive across the river.
Schedule & Format
What happens at the Welcome Dinner?
The Welcome Dinner on Tuesday evening is an opportunity to meet fellow attendees in a relaxed setting. It includes cocktails starting at 5 PM, dinner at 6 PM, a bourbon tasting, and desserts at 7 PM.
How does Matchmaking Day work?
You'll receive a personalized meeting schedule before the event. On Wednesday, you'll have back-to-back 15-minute meetings in private suites at TQL Stadium from 8:40 AM to 12:45 PM, with a snack break mid-morning. The day starts with breakfast and a kickoff at 7:30 AM and ends with a closing lunch.
How long are the meetings?
Each brand-startup meeting is 15 minutes. Brands stay in their assigned suite while startups rotate between suites throughout the day.
Will I know my schedule in advance?
Yes. Your personalized meeting schedule will be shared before the event so you can prepare for each meeting.
Travel & Accommodations
What is the preferred hotel?
Hotel Covington, 638 Madison Avenue, Covington, KY 41011. A group block will be available for Brand Fusion attendees — details and booking link coming soon.
What airport should I fly into?
Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) is approximately 15 minutes from Hotel Covington and the event venues.
Is parking available?
Parking information for both SparkHaus and TQL Stadium will be shared closer to the event. Both venues have nearby parking options.
What to Expect
What should I wear?
Business casual is the recommended dress code for both the Welcome Dinner and Matchmaking Day. Comfortable shoes are recommended as you'll be moving between suites.
Should I bring materials or a presentation?
Startups: We recommend a brief pitch or demo that fits within the 15-minute meeting window. Keep it conversational rather than a formal presentation. Brands: Come prepared to discuss your challenges and what solutions you're looking for.
Will meals be provided?
Yes. The Welcome Dinner on Day 1 and breakfast plus a closing lunch on Day 2 are all included.
Is there Wi-Fi at the venues?
Yes, Wi-Fi is available at both venues. Details will be provided on-site.
Contact & Support
Who do I contact with questions?
Reach out to the Brand Fusion team at info@brandfusion.com for any questions about the event, logistics, or your schedule.
What if I need to cancel or change my attendance?
Please contact us as soon as possible at info@brandfusion.com so we can adjust the meeting schedule accordingly.