We love nothing more than connecting with old friends, meeting new people, gathering new ideas, and getting inspired. The Rally Innovation 2024 conference provided plenty of opportunity for all of that and more.
Held on August 27th and 28th in downtown Indianapolis, the event drew founders, innovators, investors, and community connectors from around the world. This was the second year for the conference hosted by Elevate Ventures and the Indiana Economic Development Corporation, and it did not disappoint.
Rally 2024 was more than just a gathering of those in the tech industry: it combined workshops, panel discussions, meetups, and inspiring keynotes with experts across a wide array of industries from sports, agriculture, healthcare, manufacturing, government, and hard and soft tech.
A few key themes emerged for us from this year’s conference:
- There’s no shortage of exciting new ideas. Startups from a wide variety of backgrounds and stages participated in pitch competitions and were able to gather feedback, meet investors, and spread the word about what they do. We loved seeing fresh ideas that ranged from inspiring kids to learn about financial literacy to better engaging a sports league’s fanbase through chips in their jerseys to new composting bin technology.
- Indy’s emergence as a sports tech hub was a key theme throughout the conference. The city’s unique position as a sports capital is now attracting founders from across the country who are eager to be part of this growing ecosystem. The influx of talent and ideas in this niche sector is helping to solidify Indy’s reputation as a place where sports and technology intersect.
- Vulnerability and authentic relationships were the topic of some of the most impactful presentations of the week. It’s something that we believe strongly at Innovatemap – that true connection breeds the most successful partnerships, and it all starts with bringing our full selves to every conversation and meeting.
- Design as a foundational element to engagement, clarity, and delight. As the design partner for Rally, we had the privilege of creating the visual identity, signage, and the countdown video that set the tone for the entire event. Seeing our work come to life and contribute to the conference’s success was incredibly rewarding. The feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with many commenting on how the event’s branding elevated their experience.
- Simply gathering together was a huge benefit. If you know Innovatemap, you know we like a party. Beyond the main conference, the events surrounding Rally offered plenty of opportunity to meet new people and re-connect with old friends. From the Midwest House gatherings to the High Alpha events and Tuesday night festivities (including our own event), there was no shortage of opportunities to connect, learn, and celebrate the Midwest’s unique brand of hospitality. These gatherings offered a chance to deepen relationships and build new ones, all in the warm, welcoming atmosphere that the Midwest is known for.
It was an energizing, exciting week, and we so appreciated being able to spend it with innovative minds from around the world. We’re looking forward to keeping the momentum going into the rest of the year and seeing what Rally 2025 will have to offer next year!
