About this Event
Help shape the future of health! Join the American Heart Association for an inspiring evening of innovation and impact at the EmPOWERED to Serve Business Accelerator Showcase Finale, supported by the Wells Fargo Foundation and MATTER.
Explore the Founder Expo, connect with entrepreneurs tackling today’s biggest health challenges and help select two Wildcard finalists during the live Lightning Round. Then cheer on the Top 10 businesses as they compete for a share of $300,000 in grant funding.
Discover. Vote. Celebrate.
Agenda (all times in CT)
4:30 pm | Doors open
5:00 pm | Founder Expo and Reception
6:00 pm | Welcome: Patrick L. Riley, Emcee and Award-Winning Journalist
Opening remarks: Nancy Brown, CEO, American Heart Association
6:10 pm | Lightning pitches
7:00 pm | Featured pitches
7:45 pm | Panel discussion with special guests
8:15 pm | Announcement of winners
8:30 pm | Closing remarks
About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
About MATTER
At MATTER, we believe collaboration is the best way to improve healthcare. The MATTER collaborative includes more than 1,000 current and alumni startups from around the world, working together with dozens of hospitals and health systems, universities and industry-leading companies to build the future of healthcare. Together we are accelerating innovation, advancing care and improving lives. For more information, visit matter.health and follow @MATTERhealth.
About Wells Fargo
Wells Fargo and the Wells Fargo Foundation are committed to helping communities thrive, by supporting financially resilient families, vibrant businesses, and affordable places to call home. Our grantmaking focuses on opportunities that align with our strategic funding priorities: financial opportunity, housing access and affordability, and business growth. For more information, visit wellsfargo.com/impact.
Event venue & nearby stays
222 W Merchandise Mart Plaza, Suite 228, 222 West Merchandise Mart Plaza, Chicago, United States
Concerts, fests, parties, meetups — all the happenings, one place.