Upstate Venture Connect is the connective tissue of Upstate New York's startup ecosystem.
Founded in 2010, UVC is dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs across Upstate NY — providing thought leadership, valuable insights, and the introductions that move founders forward. Today we serve nearly 700 high-growth businesses through personalized connections and exclusive gatherings.
We're a 501(c)(3) nonprofit supported by tax-deductible donations and sponsorships from people who believe in this region. Our work isn't about events — it's about building meaningful relationships that accelerate founders toward capital, customers, talent, and community. Donate today.
"I founded Upstate Venture Connect as a non profit organization dedicated to catalyzing creation of thousands of high-tech, high-growth, private capital backed companies in Upstate New York so we can create opportunities for our best and brightest talent."
Martin Babinec — Founder, UVC & TriNet
Quality of connection over volume of content. Every introduction we make, every founder we back, every room we fill reflects intention — fewer, better interactions that actually move founders forward.
We connect early-stage founders with the mentors, capital, and customers they need to build real companies here. Through curated introductions, office hours, and intimate gatherings, we create the density of connection that makes an ecosystem thrive.
No gatekeeping. No application fees. If you're building something ambitious in Upstate NY, there's a place for you in the network.
Join 200+ Upstate founders getting curated introductions, exclusive gatherings, and a network that actually moves the needle.
