​Join us for the First Annual Spark Awards, a celebration of bold leadership, innovation, and community impact — and the official kickoff to CT Tech Week 2025.

​Hosted by Realist Lab, this unforgettable evening will honor change-makers and visionary leaders across Connecticut’s innovation ecosystem. From emerging talent to trailblazing veterans, the Spark Awards shine a light on those who ignite real progress.

​2025 Spark Awards:

• ​Trailblazer of the Year

• ​Innovation Catalyst Award

• ​Community Impact Award

• ​Next Gen Leader Award

• ​VC/Investor of the Year

• ​Realist Lab Rising Star

• ​Ecosystem Builder Award

• ​Corporate Impact Partner Award

​What to Expect:

• ​Awards Presentation

• ​Networking with Connecticut’s top innovators

• ​Live music, light bites & cocktails

• ​A dynamic launch to an incredible week of tech programming

​Dress Code: Semi-Formal

​Ticket & Sponsorship Levels

​Early Bird – General Admission

​$200.00
Available until May 15
Includes entry to the Spark Awards ceremony & kickoff celebration. Light bites, drinks, and networking included.

​Supporter Sponsor

​$5,000.00

• ​4 complimentary event tickets

• ​Name/logo listed on event signage and website

• ​Social media recognition

• ​Option to include materials in attendee gift bags

​Partner Sponsor

​$10,000.00

• ​6 complimentary event tickets

• ​Premium logo placement on event signage, website & digital materials

• ​Mention during the awards ceremony

• ​Featured social media spotlight

• ​Opportunity to present one award category

​Title Sponsor

​$20,000.00

• ​10 complimentary event tickets

• ​Premier logo placement across all collateral

• ​Verbal recognition as Presenting Sponsor during event

• ​Full-page feature in the printed program

• ​Opportunity to co-present opening remarks

• ​VIP media placement and featured press release mention

​General Admission (After May 15)

​$165.00
Includes full access to the awards ceremony, networking, and celebration.

​About CT Tech Week:

​
This event is part of #CTTechWeek, a series of initiatives bringing together the CT tech ecosystem, hosted by non-profits, the City of Stamford, VCs, and startups.

​​Media Consent:
By attending this event, you consent to photography, video, and audio recording. Your presence may be captured and used for promotional purposes in perpetuity, including on websites, social media, news, and advertising. Your participation serves as your release of any claims related to the use of recorded media, including those regarding privacy or copyright.

​About Realist Lab

​Realist Lab is a (501(c)(3) on mission-driven organization dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs and change makers through education, mentorship, and community-driven initiatives. We provide resources, funding opportunities, and strategic support to help early-stage founders bring their visions to life. Through programs like the Venture Launch Fellowship, we cultivate a thriving ecosystem for underrepresented entrepreneurs, ensuring they have the tools, connections, and knowledge needed to build sustainable and impactful businesses.

​Proceeds from the event will go to fund future generations of the Realist Lab Venture Launch Fellowship Program.