Tom Tom Festival 2025

As the morning light gently rises, participants are invited to a serene gathering for connection with self and nature. This guided meditation will lead attendees through the Five Tibetan Rites—simple, non-strenuous exercises—paired with easy breathing techniques, nature gazing, and a brief introduction to the message of Love…No Ego. Through this practice, participants will explore what it means to simply be human, releasing the ego and embracing presence in a tranquil outdoor setting.

The meditation will take place in the open grassy soccer field. Participants should bring a yoga mat, towel, and water bottle, as these items will not be provided. The Love…No Ego Branded Van will be parked nearby for easy identification, and ample free parking is available.

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If you plan to attend only free events at Tom Tom and would still like to build your schedule here on Sched, please register for a Free "Create Your Schedule" Ticket. You’ll then receive an email from Sched prompting you to build your schedule.

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Note: This Conference session is ticketed.

Please purchase your tickets on Eventbrite. You will then receive an email from Sched with login information that allows you to make your personal schedule.

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A special thank you to our sponsors: The 13th Annual Tom Tom Festival is presented with the University of Virginia, UVA Innovates, Virginia Tourism, RL Beyer Custom Homes, and Ludwig Kuttner.

Registration and badge pickup takes place in the lobby of the Code Building. Check in and connect with other attendees before the sessions begin.

Complimentary coffee and tea provided by Grit Coffee in the Irving Theater lobby at Code.

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Note: This Conference session is ticketed.

Please purchase your tickets on Eventbrite. You will then receive an email from Sched with login information that allows you to make your personal schedule.

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A special thank you to our sponsors: The 13th Annual Tom Tom Festival is presented with the University of Virginia, UVA Innovates, Virginia Tourism, RL Beyer Custom Homes, and Ludwig Kuttner.

Welcome to Technology Day, where we celebrate how tech is evolving—not just for the sake of progress, but for the greater good. Get ready to embrace the changes, ask the hard questions, and maybe even find a way to use your gadgets to save the world (or at least make it a bit better).

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Note: This Conference session is ticketed.

Please purchase your tickets on Eventbrite. You will then receive an email from Sched with login information that allows you to make your personal schedule.

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A special thank you to our sponsors: The 13th Annual Tom Tom Festival is presented with the University of Virginia, UVA Innovates, Virginia Tourism, RL Beyer Custom Homes, and Ludwig Kuttner.

This session is presented proudly in partnership with The UVA Contemplative Sciences Center. 

As AI evolves, the real question isn’t just what it can do—but who we become alongside it. Dr. Julia Mossbridge, cognitive neuroscientist and futurist, explores the intersection of AI, consciousness, and human potential, enhancing leadership, challenging us to design technology that fosters compassion, self-transcendence, and great businesses. Instead of just making machines smarter, what if we created AI that helped us become wiser, kinder, and more deeply connected, and better leaders?  This keynote pushes beyond the usual AI hype to reimagine a future where technology amplifies our highest human qualities, not just our efficiency

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Note: This Conference session is ticketed.

Please purchase your tickets on Eventbrite. You will then receive an email from Sched with login information that allows you to make your personal schedule.

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A special thank you to our sponsors: The 13th Annual Tom Tom Festival is presented with the University of Virginia, UVA Innovates, Virginia Tourism, RL Beyer Custom Homes, and Ludwig Kuttner.

If you have never been in your local jail, now is the time. This tour, led by Col Martin Kumer, superintendent of the jail, will offer a glimpse at conditions in the jail. The Albemarle-Charlottesville Regional Jail was built in 1974 and currently houses about 230 people who are awaiting trial or serving sentences not long enough for a larger prison. This eye opening tour and discussion of mental health, rehabilitation, and re-entry will help local residents aiming to increase empathy and understanding for those returning to society.

Following the tour, Central Virginia Community Justice will facilitate a reflection on the experience, and an introduction to how CVCJ is offering restorative justice as an alternative to incarceration.

There will be three sessions:

• Morning Session: 9:30 am – 11:30 am 
• Afternoon Session: 12:30 pm – 2:30 pm
• Evening Session: 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm
  
  
  

If you desire to register for the Jail Tour, Please Reach out Directly to Sam Heath (samh@ejusa.org). Each jail tour is limited to 8 participants.

Innovation doesn’t just happen - it mutates, adapts, and evolves! Join us for an immersive, hands-on workshop where creativity meets strategy, and ideas turn into real possibilities. At this dynamic session, you’ll step into the shoes of an inventor, entrepreneur, and engineer to explore intellectual property (IP) as a catalyst for groundbreaking ventures.

Over the course of 60 minutes, you will work with a team to collaborate on a new product and build a company from the ground up - all through the lens of IP. This is not just another business workshop; it’s a face-paced, high-energy experience where you’ll get a crash course in patents and trademarks, work with real inventions, grow an understanding of your customers, develop your brand identity, and emerge with a pitch to the group. This is your chance to push boundaries, collaborate with fellow visionaries, and gain hands-on experience in turning ideas into action. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a creative thinker, or simply someone who loves problem solving, this workshop is designed to challenge and inspire you. Let’s EVOLVE your creativity to better meet the changing needs of our community.

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Note: This Conference session is ticketed.

Please purchase your tickets on Eventbrite. You will then receive an email from Sched with login information that allows you to make your personal schedule.

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A special thank you to our sponsors: The 13th Annual Tom Tom Festival is presented with the University of Virginia, UVA Innovates, Virginia Tourism, RL Beyer Custom Homes, and Ludwig Kuttner.

This session is proudly presented in partnership with the Hampton Roads Biomedical Research Consortium (HRBRC). 

In a world hooked on speed, scale, and shiny new tools, what does it actually mean to build something that lasts—and matters? Join a sharp, diverse panel of thinkers and doers as we cut through the jargon and get real about what it takes to lead responsibly in today’s tech-driven, expectation-heavy business landscape.

From AI and algorithmic accountability to leadership habits, organizational design, and the realities of culture and capital, this conversation brings insight across sectors: startups, corporations, academia, and the spaces in between. Whether you're an entrepreneur, executive, team lead, or just trying to figure out how to build with brains and backbone, this panel is for you.

We’ll explore: how to create products and policies that reflect both innovation and integrity; the changing expectations around leadership and team-building in tech and beyond; why ethics and human-centered design are good business not just good PR; what smart use of AI actually looks like ( it’s not about replacing everyone); and how today’s professionals can rethink ambition, resilience, and long-term value. No buzzwords, no bandwagons, just a frank, forward-looking discussion for anyone who cares about building a better business future.

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Note: This Conference session is ticketed.

Please purchase your tickets on Eventbrite. You will then receive an email from Sched with login information that allows you to make your personal schedule.

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A special thank you to our sponsors: The 13th Annual Tom Tom Festival is presented with the University of Virginia, UVA Innovates, Virginia Tourism, RL Beyer Custom Homes, and Ludwig Kuttner.

Navigating the patent process in the world of medical devices is a bit like performing surgery with a blindfold on—except you’re the one wearing the blindfold. Join us for a candid session where medical device founders dish out the keys to creating intellectual property that not only survives but thrives in the unforgiving world of patents. We’ll explore best practices for kicking off and maneuvering through the patent application process, without getting lost in the legal weeds.

And because no one gets through this journey unscathed, expect a few war stories from patent combatants who’ve lived to tell the tale. Learn from their victories, defeats, and everything in between. Spoiler: It’s not all smooth sailing, but you might just leave with a battle plan of your own.

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Note: This Conference session is ticketed.

Please purchase your tickets on Eventbrite. You will then receive an email from Sched with login information that allows you to make your personal schedule.

************

A special thank you to our sponsors: The 13th Annual Tom Tom Festival is presented with the University of Virginia, UVA Innovates, Virginia Tourism, RL Beyer Custom Homes, and Ludwig Kuttner.

This showcase is proudly presented in partnership with the Virginia Innovative Partnership Corporation (VIPC).

Witness a whirlwind tour of Virginia’s most exciting startups, where the future is being built one game-changing innovation at a time. This isn’t your typical “buy my product” pitch session—this is about showcasing the raw, unfiltered brilliance of emerging technologies and the transformative potential they hold. In these lightning talks, you'll hear from entrepreneurs who are deep in the trenches and their insights that come from real innovation.

Once the minds behind these breakthroughs have had their moment in the spotlight, it’s time to mingle. Stick around for a networking session where you can chat with angel and institutional investors who are eager to hear about the next big thing (and maybe even fund it). Whether you’re looking to collaborate, invest, or just marvel at what’s next, this event will spark new connections and ideas in the ever-evolving world of tech.

Note: This conference session is a ticketed event. To create your event schedule here on Sched you must first purchase your tickets on Eventbrite. Click here to purchase your tickets. All Conference badges also have a Pay-What-You-Can Scholarship Option. This option is available for attendees in need of financial assistance to attend the conference.

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Note: This Conference session is ticketed.

Please purchase your tickets on Eventbrite. You will then receive an email from Sched with login information that allows you to make your personal schedule.

************

A special thank you to our sponsors: The 13th Annual Tom Tom Festival is presented with the University of Virginia, UVA Innovates, Virginia Tourism, RL Beyer Custom Homes, and Ludwig Kuttner.

AI and automation aren’t just buzzwords—they’re the keys to the future of work, whether you’re ready or not. This session will explore how businesses can tap into these powerful tools to streamline operations, boost collaboration, and maintain that elusive edge in an ever-evolving marketplace. From optimizing workflows to automating the mundane, we’ll cover the strategies that are making companies smarter, faster, and just a little less reliant on human error.

In this workshop, we’ll look at the real-world applications and tangible benefits of AI and automation, all while keeping a keen eye on how they can enhance human roles, not replace them. Whether you’re a startup looking to level up or a seasoned pro trying to keep pace, this session will give you the tools, tips, and insights to stay ahead in a world that’s changing faster than you can say “machine learning.”

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Note: This Conference session is ticketed.

Please purchase your tickets on Eventbrite. You will then receive an email from Sched with login information that allows you to make your personal schedule.

************

A special thank you to our sponsors: The 13th Annual Tom Tom Festival is presented with the University of Virginia, UVA Innovates, Virginia Tourism, RL Beyer Custom Homes, and Ludwig Kuttner.

The "One-Stop Shop" (OSS) is a free event designed to support formerly incarcerated individuals by providing access to a wide range of services aimed at successful reintegration. The event features food, music, and resources from various agencies, including the Department of Social Services, OAR, Region Ten, Goodwill Industries, New Beginnings, and the Fountain Fund. These services cover medical and mental healthcare, substance abuse counseling, legal support, license reinstatement, financial literacy, career counseling, housing access, and educational opportunities.

Launched in response to Virginia's Earned Sentence Credit law, which allowed early release for eligible incarcerated individuals, the OSS event helps address the needs of those reentering the community. The Charlottesville Albemarle Reentry Council (CARC) recognized the challenges faced by these individuals and developed the OSS to ensure they have the support needed to reintegrate and avoid recidivism. The event is open to all community members in need, regardless of incarceration status.

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If you plan to attend only free events at Tom Tom and would still like to build your schedule here on Sched, please register for a Free "Create Your Schedule" Ticket. You’ll then receive an email from Sched prompting you to build your schedule.

This showcase is presented proudly in partnership with the Dominion Energy Innovation Center.

This showcase features the trailblazers who are reshaping the state’s energy landscape, one groundbreaking innovation at a time. In this session, clean energy startups will take you on a journey through their evolution as companies, highlighting the challenges, triumphs, and eureka moments that led to their game-changing solutions. These entrepreneurs will explain why they’re not just tinkering with energy—they’re pioneering innovations that could power Virginia’s economy for decades to come.

These startups are redefining what it means to “go green.” And no, it’s not all about saving the planet (though that’s a nice bonus). It’s about making clean energy accessible, affordable, and transformative for businesses and consumers alike. So, grab a seat, and get ready for some of Virginia’s brightest minds to show you why their innovations aren’t just evolutionary—they’re game-changing for the future of energy.

Note: This conference session is a ticketed event. To create your event schedule here on Sched you must first purchase your tickets on Eventbrite. Click here to purchase your tickets. All Conference badges also have a Pay-What-You-Can Scholarship Option. This option is available for attendees in need of financial assistance to attend the conference.

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Note: This Conference session is ticketed.

Please purchase your tickets on Eventbrite. You will then receive an email from Sched with login information that allows you to make your personal schedule.

************

A special thank you to our sponsors: The 13th Annual Tom Tom Festival is presented with the University of Virginia, UVA Innovates, Virginia Tourism, RL Beyer Custom Homes, and Ludwig Kuttner.

The community is invited to an inclusive stress-relief gathering featuring yoga, meditation, and a sound bath, set against the breathtaking mountain views at Eastwood Farm and Winery. Hosted by Simply Mindful Moment, Yoga by Brian, and Lake Yoga and Wellness, this afternoon of mindfulness and connection offers a welcoming space where participants can be fully present, embracing both themselves and each other without judgment. Through guided yoga, meditation, and sound healing, attendees will experience deep relaxation and a renewed sense of balance.

To ensure accessibility, parking at the Mountaintop is reserved for those with mobility needs, while all others are asked to park near the tent and walk up. Participants should bring their own yoga mat, blanket, chair, and any other items for comfort. Following the session, guests are encouraged to stay and continue the experience over wine, cider, beer, and food at the winery. The event will flow through 45-minute segments of yoga, meditation, and a healing sound bath, creating a peaceful retreat for mind and body.

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If you plan to attend only free events at Tom Tom and would still like to build your schedule here on Sched, please register for a Free "Create Your Schedule" Ticket. You’ll then receive an email from Sched prompting you to build your schedule.

Note: This conference session is a ticketed event. You can attend with a Patron or All-Access pass or a Thursday day pass OR purchase a ticket just for this event (please go to Eventbrite and purchase the Technology - WomenAdvancing ticket).

Thank you to our WomenAdvancing Founder sponsor Lighthouse Labs. 

1:15 - 2:15 pm - Invitational Only Executive Roundtable, curated by Citrine Angels and VIPC

1:30 - 2:00 pm - Arrival and Bingo Networking

2:00 - 2:45 pm - This session is presented proudly in partnership with Sherah - 
Welcome Remarks & Fireside Chat on “The Future of Work: Escaping the Cult of Busyness By Breaking Free from Overwork & Overwhelm”

We’ve been sold the myth that success means working harder, longer, and faster, but what if everything we believe about work is wrong? Brigid Schulte, bestselling author of Overwhelmed and Overwork, takes on the cult of busyness and lays out a smarter, saner vision for the future of work. From rethinking productivity to designing workplaces that actually work for humans, this keynote explores how we can ditch the burnout, reclaim time, and build a work culture that doesn’t require an escape plan.

• Brigid Schulte, Author, former Washington Post reporter
• Kate Byrne, Founder/Advisor, Podcast Host, WomenAdvancing
• Kristin Richardson, Founder, Sherah

2:45 - 3:30 pm - This session is proudly presented in partnership with 757 Collab - 
“Win Anyway: How to Succeed in Today’s Startup Environment”

With any new administration comes trickle-down changes, and this term is no different. Join us for an overview of current and impending regulatory, legislative, changes impacting the start-up ecosystem. Leading experts will provide guidance on how to navigate these challenges and find success in fundraising and scaling your business.

• Carmen Ortiz McGhee, COO, National Association of Investment Companies (NAIC), moderator
• Liz Doerr, Co-Founder & Partner, Sandbox
• Tina McRae, Principal, Kaleo Legal
• Rebecca Haydock, CEO, Venture Central

3:30 - 3:45 pm - Break

3:45 - 4:30 pm -  "Women Lifting Others: Examples in Climate and Sustainability"

Women excel at building networks and coalitions to support each other, and this work is more important today than ever. Our panelists are not only entrepreneurs in the climate and sustainability space themselves, but actively work to support other women in the sector and are connectors of people, projects, and funding. During this session, we will learn how we can translate what they're doing in one industry into others.

• Ali Rotatori, Strategy & Ecosystem Manager, Third Derivative (RMI) 
• Betsy Hnath, Deputy Executive Director, RISE Resilience Innovations
• Jade Garrett, Founder, Positive Deviancy
• Raye Elliott, Executive Director, FLIPP Inc

4:30 - 5:15 pm -  This session is proudly presented in partnership with Startup Virginia - 
"Money Moves: Funding Strategies for Women Entrepreneurs"

Women entrepreneurs receive significantly less funding than their male counterparts—but that doesn’t mean the money isn’t out there. This panel is all about understanding your funding options, overcoming systemic barriers, and making strategic moves to get the capital you need to grow. Our expert panelists—including lenders, investors, and successful founders—will share actionable insights on the funding gap, different funding avenues, and tips for crafting the perfect pitch.

• Chris Cain, Director of Capital Access, Bridging Virginia, moderator
• Aurelia Flores, Co-Founder, Citrine Angels, and Investment Director, VIPC
• Teira E. Farley, COO, Community Investment Collaborative (CIC)
• Tracey Greene, Executive Director, Charlottesville Business Innovation Council (CBIC) and Founding Executive Director, Charlottesville Angel Network (CAN)
• Yolunda Harrell, President & CEO, New Hill Development Corporation
  
  

5:15 - 6:00 pm - Networking and Closing Reception

Join us for a mixer pairing good conversation with even better snacks and drinks, all from Virginia-based, female-founded food & beverage producers. Whether you’re looking to make professional connections, discover new products, or just enjoy some tasty bites, this session promises a relaxed, enjoyable way to expand your network.

Savor delicious samples from:

• Absurd Snacks - allergen-free snack mixes
• Crunchy Hydration - zero-sugar functional sparkling water
• Eastwood Winery - local Charlottesville-produced wine
• I Kale Life - kale salad with Via Life dressing
• Keya's Snacks - Indian-inspired potato chips
• LillyBean - vegan and gluten-free mini cupcakes
• Mocktail Club - Pauline Idogho - non-alcoholic canned mocktails
• Navy Hill - Tequila Sodas
• OMG OCPs - oatmeal cream pies
• Peculiar Pantry - sweet and salty pecans, almonds, and toffee
• Taste Supply - an F&B marketplace for small producers featuring four brands: Birdie's Pimento Cheese, Capital Chips, Rainbow Trout Granola, and The Veganish Kitchen

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A special thank you to our sponsors: The 13th Annual Tom Tom Festival is presented with the University of Virginia, UVA Innovates, Virginia Tourism, RL Beyer Custom Homes, and Ludwig Kuttner.

In today’s fast-paced world, feeling unheard, misunderstood, and disconnected is a common experience, even in our closest relationships. This workshop offers an opportunity to develop deeper connections and gain confidence in navigating difficult conversations with compassion and clarity.

During this interactive two-hour session, participants will explore the principles of empathic listening and nonviolent communication, learning techniques to express themselves authentically and cultivate a compassionate presence. Through guided exercises and group practice, attendees will enhance their communication skills while fostering more meaningful and fulfilling relationships.

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If you plan to attend only free events at Tom Tom and would still like to build your schedule here on Sched, please register for a Free "Create Your Schedule" Ticket. You’ll then receive an email from Sched prompting you to build your schedule.

This session is presented proudly in partnership with the Dominion Energy Innovation Center. 

Ever wonder what drives the people behind the clean energy revolution? This session goes beyond the technical jargon and corporate buzzwords to dive into the personal stories of the founders behind Virginia's Clean Energy Innovators Showcase. You'll hear about their journeys—what sparked their passion for climate innovation, the wild road they’ve traveled to get to where they are now, and the inevitable hurdles they had to jump over (or, let's be real, bulldoze through).

Moderated by Dominion Energy Innovation Center, this panel of founders will share the real behind-the-scenes moments that led them to turn their ideas into industry-shifting solutions. From sleepless nights to unexpected breakthroughs, get ready for an honest look at the human side of clean energy innovation. Whether you're inspired, entertained, or just curious about the people making waves in the green revolution, this session will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the passion and perseverance driving the future of our planet.

Note: This conference session is a ticketed event. To create your event schedule here on Sched you must first purchase your tickets on Eventbrite. Click here to purchase your tickets. All Conference badges also have a Pay-What-You-Can Scholarship Option. This option is available for attendees in need of financial assistance to attend the conference.

********

Note: This Conference session is ticketed.

Please purchase your tickets on Eventbrite. You will then receive an email from Sched with login information that allows you to make your personal schedule.

************

A special thank you to our sponsors: The 13th Annual Tom Tom Festival is presented with the University of Virginia, UVA Innovates, Virginia Tourism, RL Beyer Custom Homes, and Ludwig Kuttner.

This session is proudly presented in partnership with the Albemarle County office of Economic Development. 

How can cross-sector collaborations position our region as a premier destination for innovation? This discussion will explore the critical intersections of technology, research, workforce development, and investment that drive sustainable growth.

From major municipal projects like Rivanna Futures and the North Fork Discovery Park, to UVA’s flagship Manning Institute for Biotechnology, and the statewide efforts to foster a new Biotech Accelerator — there is a burgeoning innovation corridor developing on Route 29N.

Leaders will share strategies for cultivating an innovation ecosystem that fuels both startups and established industries. And as we look to the future, what kinds of coordination is necessary to align strategies and vision.

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Note: This Conference session is ticketed.

Please purchase your tickets on Eventbrite. You will then receive an email from Sched with login information that allows you to make your personal schedule.

************

A special thank you to our sponsors: The 13th Annual Tom Tom Festival is presented with the University of Virginia, UVA Innovates, Virginia Tourism, RL Beyer Custom Homes, and Ludwig Kuttner.

We’re living through the most disruptive period in human history—AI is rising faster than we can keep up, institutions are unraveling like old sweaters, and society seems to be cracking under the weight of its own contradictions. It feels like the world is coming apart at the seams, but what if it’s all connected? What if every crisis we’re facing is, at its core, a crisis of technology—how we build, govern, and make sense of the world?

In this talk and mini-panel, we’ll explore how to turn this moment of chaos into a chance for something more human-centered. From fire to writing, from printing to AI, every leap in technology has forced humanity to rethink its relationship with the world. Can we learn from those past shifts and make smarter decisions now? Forget the buzzwords, the knee-jerk reactions, and the polarizing opinions—we’re diving deep into a framework for understanding this cultural moment and how technology is shaping human experience. With real-world examples and insights from tech practitioners who aren’t just reacting, but reflecting, we’ll explore how to evolve into the next phase of our technological and social evolution. This isn’t about being passive; it’s about making sure our tech serves humanity’s highest vision, not just technology for its own sake. The question is: Will we be shaped by technology, or will we shape it? More details coming soon.

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Note: This Conference session is ticketed.

Please purchase your tickets on Eventbrite. You will then receive an email from Sched with login information that allows you to make your personal schedule.

************

A special thank you to our sponsors: The 13th Annual Tom Tom Festival is presented with the University of Virginia, UVA Innovates, Virginia Tourism, RL Beyer Custom Homes, and Ludwig Kuttner.

This session is presented proudly in partnership with CAV Angels. 

Between breakthroughs, ethical dilemmas, funding frenzies, and the occasional existential crisis, AI founders are navigating a constantly shifting landscape that sometimes feels like it's held together with duct tape. In this panel, we bring together the pioneers, problem-solvers, and maybe even a few accidental disruptors who are shaping AI's next frontier—because who else is brave (or crazy) enough to be building the future right now?

They’ll tackle everything you’ve been wondering (or pretending not to wonder): What are they actually building and why? What’s the difference between the AI hype and the harsh reality of starting up in 2025? What are investors getting wrong (and right) about AI? How do you scale responsibly without breaking the world, your budget, or both? And, of course, which AI myths need to be retired ASAP. Plus, hear from those who are actually putting their money where their mouth is about why they’re backing these game-changers. If you’re tired of speculating about the future and want to hear from the people actually building it, this is the conversation you don’t want to miss.

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Note: This Conference session is ticketed.

Please purchase your tickets on Eventbrite. You will then receive an email from Sched with login information that allows you to make your personal schedule.

************

A special thank you to our sponsors: The 13th Annual Tom Tom Festival is presented with the University of Virginia, UVA Innovates, Virginia Tourism, RL Beyer Custom Homes, and Ludwig Kuttner.

We’ve all heard the “save the planet” pitch, but here’s the real question: how do we actually pay for it? This panel will dive into the messy, high-stakes intersection of capital, policy, and technology—because solving the climate crisis requires more than just good intentions. We’ll explore how funding plays a pivotal role in scaling climate tech solutions, both here in the U.S. and globally, while navigating the inevitable bureaucratic hurdles and financial landmines that come with the territory. It’s not all sunshine and solar panels, but we’ll figure out how to make it work.

Expect to hear from experts who’ve wrestled with the complexities of turning big climate ideas into market-ready innovations. They’ll break down the crucial role investors play, why policy isn’t always the enemy, and how the right combination of capital and tech can actually shift the needle on large-scale solutions. If you’re looking to fund the next wave of climate innovation—or just want to understand how this whole messy machine works—this is the session for you

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Note: This Conference session is ticketed.

Please purchase your tickets on Eventbrite. You will then receive an email from Sched with login information that allows you to make your personal schedule.

************

A special thank you to our sponsors: The 13th Annual Tom Tom Festival is presented with the University of Virginia, UVA Innovates, Virginia Tourism, RL Beyer Custom Homes, and Ludwig Kuttner.

The social sector is no stranger to complexity—whether it's tackling quality of life issues or getting communities to rally around a cause, it can feel like herding cats with a side of bureaucracy. Enter technology, with its shiny promises of making everything easier, more efficient, and impactful—if only it were as simple as pressing "send." This panel will explore the evolving role of tech in the social sector, focusing on both the exciting opportunities and the mind-bending challenges that await in 2025 and beyond.

Our expert panelists will dive into real-world examples, weigh in on the ethical dilemmas, and share their hard-earned wisdom on building sustainable tech strategies for social good. You’ll leave with more than just ideas for your next big project—you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at how to navigate the delicate balance between tech innovation and the very human issues that social organizations tackle. You’ll learn how technology can actually amplify social impact. Just don’t expect all the answers—because sometimes, the journey is as complicated as the problems themselves.

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Note: This Conference session is ticketed.

Please purchase your tickets on Eventbrite. You will then receive an email from Sched with login information that allows you to make your personal schedule.

************

A special thank you to our sponsors: The 13th Annual Tom Tom Festival is presented with the University of Virginia, UVA Innovates, Virginia Tourism, RL Beyer Custom Homes, and Ludwig Kuttner.

Moderated by Cville Renewable Energy Alliance (CvilleREA), this session will dive into local noteworthy clean energy projects, like SunTribe Solar’s solar projects on landfills, Baywa R.E.'s Agrovoltaics Solar projects, where sheep are grazing among the solar panels. Also included is Apex’s wind project in Botencourt County, and some local smaller solar array from Tiger Solar and SunDay Solar, as well as East Point Energy’s Dry Bridge battery energy storage project, which will definitely change the way we look at energy storage.

But it’s not just about solar panels, batteries, and turbines. This session will dig into how these projects aren’t just saving the planet, but benefiting the communities around them, too. From job creation to energy savings to local economic boosts, the perks of these initiatives are rippling through municipalities and jurisdictions. Join us for this important conversation on how clean energy is generating community benefits in the Charlottesville community and beyond.

Speakers/projects include:

1. SunDay Solar - COO Michael Blinn - local solar array
2. Sun Tribe - COO Taylor Brown - land fill solar projects
3. Tiger Solar - Director of Sales Jeff Hegemen - commercial solar array
4. East Point Energy - Project Developer Chris Meyer - Dry Bridge Energy Center battery energy storage project
5. Baywa r.e. Solar - Director Project Development Chris Gordon - Agrovoltaics
6. Apex Clean Energy - Associate Manager Luke Sommers  - Rocky Forge Wind

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Note: This Conference session is ticketed.

Please purchase your tickets on Eventbrite. You will then receive an email from Sched with login information that allows you to make your personal schedule.

************

A special thank you to our sponsors: The 13th Annual Tom Tom Festival is presented with the University of Virginia, UVA Innovates, Virginia Tourism, RL Beyer Custom Homes, and Ludwig Kuttner.

The University of Virginia Entrepreneurship Cup, also known as the E-Cup, is an annual competition that seeks to enrich the area’s entrepreneurial community by encouraging new ventures with the potential to address unmet needs, solve social and economic problems, and do so in an interdisciplinary way.

The E-Cup is open to all UVA undergraduates, graduate students and post-doctoral fellows. The E-Cup consists of three different stages: Concept, Discovery and Launch! Each stage will have its own competition with varying judging criteria.

The Launch Competition is the third and final stage of the UVA Entrepreneurship Cup, and its goal is to showcase and provide seed capital to the most compelling UVA student startups. Upwards of $50,000 in total prize and in-kind resources will be awarded. Join us to pick the Audience Choice!

Here also is a History of ECUP Finalists and Winners, many of them awarded at Tom Tom Festival.

Space for this event is limited. EVOLVE Conference Badge Holders are able to attend, otherwise separate registration with the UVA ECup Team is required for entry. 

ZERO ON ZERO (ZOZ) is one of Charlottesville’s first non-alcoholic dance parties, celebrating the mindful drinking and sober-curious movement. Named after the Central Place fountain, ZOZ welcomes both those who have stopped drinking and those exploring their relationship with alcohol.

On Thursday, April 17, from 5:00–7:30 PM, DJ Dutchie will spin a house lounge set from Corner Juice’s patio, while Fitzroy, Petit Pois, and Zocalo serve craft mocktails. Anahata Sabat, a leader in non-alcoholic mixology, will showcase premium wines, spirits, bitters, and tinctures that elevate the experience.

ZOZ launches a larger non-alcohol-focused program at Tom Tom Festival, including mocktail bars at the VIP Innovation Mixer and Block Party and a trailblazer session at EVOLVE Conference featuring innovators in the non-alcoholic beverage space.

Join the Beloved Community Tours team for an engaging and eye-opening journey through Charlottesville’s history. This 60-minute program will feature a curated selection of five short documentary films, each shedding light on often-overlooked or unknown local stories. Following each screening, speakers with personal and historical ties to these narratives will share their insights, deepening our understanding of the past and its impact on the present. The event will conclude with a Q&A session, providing attendees the opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue.

Through this program, attendees will gain a deeper awareness of Charlottesville’s rich and complex history and leave with a curiosity to explore more. Participants will also be introduced to the Beloved Community Tours website—a free online learning resource designed to make inclusive local history accessible to all. Hosted in partnership with the Albemarle Charlottesville Historical Society, this event aims to foster a more informed and equitable community by expanding historical awareness.

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If you plan to attend only free events at Tom Tom and would still like to build your schedule here on Sched, please register for a Free "Create Your Schedule" Ticket. You’ll then receive an email from Sched prompting you to build your schedule.

Join us for the Charlottesville Renewable Energy Alliance Happy Hour! This casual gathering offers a unique opportunity to network with local energy professionals, enthusiasts, and advocates. Share ideas, discuss sustainable energy solutions, and explore how our community can accelerate the transition to renewable energy. Whether you're a long-time supporter or new to the field, come connect with like-minded individuals.

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Note: This Conference session is ticketed.

Please purchase your tickets on Eventbrite. You will then receive an email from Sched with login information that allows you to make your personal schedule.

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A special thank you to our sponsors: The 13th Annual Tom Tom Festival is presented with the University of Virginia, UVA Innovates, Virginia Tourism, RL Beyer Custom Homes, and Ludwig Kuttner.

Within you is a quiet voice, always guiding you toward your highest good. This is the voice of your intuition. Learning to trust and harness this inner wisdom can bring greater clarity, confidence, and alignment to all areas of your life. Join renowned Intuitive and Medium, Emma Andrews, for an enlightening workshop where you'll explore the fundamentals of intuition—how it works, how to recognize it, and how to use it effortlessly to enhance your daily life.

Through engaging exercises and practical techniques, you will:
- Learn the difference between intuition and mental thoughts
- Discover your personal intuitive “yes” and “no” signals
- Develop simple, fun tools to connect with your inner guidance
- Strengthen your trust in your natural intuitive abilities

Whether you're new to intuition or looking to deepen your connection, this workshop will leave you feeling empowered and inspired. Join us to awaken your inner wisdom!

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If you plan to attend only free events at Tom Tom and would still like to build your schedule here on Sched, please register for a Free "Create Your Schedule" Ticket. You’ll then receive an email from Sched prompting you to build your schedule.

Starr Hill Presents brings you an Official After Party to the 13th Annual Tom Tom Festival:

Get ready for a night of side-splitting comedy and infectious musical antics as Kyle Gordon takes the stage at The Southern Café & Music Hall on Thursday, April 17, 2025. Known for his absurdly hilarious characters, pitch-perfect parodies, and viral social media presence, Gordon has built a devoted fanbase with his unique blend of comedy and music. Accompanied by his band, this performance promises a night of laughter, surprises, and songs you won’t be able to get out of your head.

A New York-based comedian, actor, and writer, Kyle Gordon has amassed over 5 million followers and more than a billion views across TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and beyond. His work has been spotlighted by Comedy Central, Adult Swim, Buzzfeed, Fast Company, and Time Out New York, and he has performed at top festivals like San Francisco Sketchfest, Red Clay Comedy Festival, and New York Comedy Festival. Whether he’s channeling an early-2000s club DJ, a washed-up classic rock singer, or an aggressively enthusiastic pop-punk frontman, Kyle’s spot-on impressions and original songs make for an unforgettable live show.


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To learn more or purchase tickets, please visit the Southern Website. Tickets can also be purchased in person from the Jefferson Box Office.

Starr Hill Presents brings you an Official After Party to the 13th Annual Tom Tom Festival:

Bumpin Uglies' new album, Lyrics Over Everything, hits all the right notes and then some. With 14 tracks of reggae-punk-ska brilliance coupled with a hint of folksy bluegrass, this Annapolis-based band showcases their unique sound, drawing on influences from every corner of the musical universe. Whether it’s the introspective musings of “Underdog” or the infectious energy of “Passion Is Contagious,” the album is a testament to their DIY ethos and relentless dedication.

As they gear up for their biggest tour yet, also titled Lyrics Over Everything, Bumpin Uglies prove that they’re not just playing music—they’re living it. From Cali Vibes to Everwild, their festival appearances have cemented their place in the scene. Not to mention the annual festival put on by Bumpin Uglies, Weekend at Wolfies. This new album is sure to keep them on the radar of both longtime fans and new listeners alike.

Bumpin Uglies are: Brandon Hardesty (vocals, lead guitar), Dave Wolf (bass, backing vocals), T.J. Haslett (drums), Ethan Lichtenberger (keys, trombone, trumpet, backing vocals), and Will Lopez (saxophone). With a discography that spans over a decade, including notable albums like Go Folk Yourself (2012) and Mid-Atlantic Dub (2022), this band continues to evolve while staying true to their roots.


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To learn more or purchase tickets, please visit the Jefferson Website. Tickets can also be purchased in person from the Jefferson Box Office.

Parents, educators, and community members are invited to an insightful discussion on expert recommendations for fostering a healthy relationship with technology in children. Drawing from research-backed strategies, the conversation will explore practical approaches to balancing screen time, ensuring children develop mindful digital habits at every stage of growth. Inspired by Jonathan Haidt’s The Anxious Generation and the recent warnings from the U.S. Surgeon General, this event addresses one of the most pressing challenges facing parents today.

The evening will begin with opening remarks from Dr. Autumn Graves, of St. Anne ’s-Belfield School, followed by a panel discussion moderated by Jennifer Bryerton, M.A.Ed., Publisher of CharlottesvilleFamily Magazine. Panelists include Dr. Bethany Teachman, Dr. Mike Lyons, Rev. Marc Boston, Lisa Keeler, Dr. Cara Goodwin, and Ms. Suryawanshi, each bringing expertise from psychology, education, and community leadership. Attendees will also have the opportunity to engage in a Q&A session.


Additionally, the event will feature a screening of a short film on technology use, created by Lighthouse Studio youth and introduced by Rachel Lane. This thought-provoking evening offers parents and educators actionable insights and a supportive space to navigate the evolving digital landscape with confidence.

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If you plan to attend only free events at Tom Tom and would still like to build your schedule here on Sched, please register for a Free "Create Your Schedule" Ticket. You’ll then receive an email from Sched prompting you to build your schedule.

Step out, grab a cocktail, and mingle with the movers and shakers shaping Charlottesville’s innovation scene. This isn’t just another networking event—it’s an evening where industries collide, ideas spark, and the founders and funders who are fueling it all come together for some seriously impactful conversations. Whether you’re in tech, social good, or somewhere in between, you’ll find a space to connect, collaborate, and maybe even get that funding lead you’ve been waiting for.

Forget the awkward elevator pitch—this is your chance to casually swap stories, ideas, and business cards over a drink (or two). Join us for an evening of high-energy networking, where the only thing more exciting than the connections you’ll make is the conversation you’ll have. You never know who you’ll meet, but we’re pretty sure it’ll be someone worth knowing.

This event is 21+ and features a cash bar.

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Note: This Conference session is ticketed.

Please purchase your tickets on Eventbrite. You will then receive an email from Sched with login information that allows you to make your personal schedule.

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A special thank you to our sponsors: The 13th Annual Tom Tom Festival is presented with the University of Virginia, UVA Innovates, Virginia Tourism, RL Beyer Custom Homes, and Ludwig Kuttner.

Presented by Charlottesville Chamber Music Festival. General Admission. No tickets are needed House doors open at 7:00 pm

Whether you're a connoisseur or just curious, this free one-hour+ performance is for you. Abigél Králik from Brussels joins Andrew Armstrong and Raphael Bell in Mendelssohn's great Piano Trio #1 and more.

Program:
BÉLA BARTÓK Romanian Folk Dances, Sz 56
ANTONIN DVOŘÁK Songs My Mother Taught Me, Opus 55, No. 4
FRITZ KREISLER Aucassin et Nicolette
FRITZ KREISLER Tambourin Chinois, Opus 3
FELIX MENDELSSOHN Piano Trio No. 1 in D minor, Opus 49

Violinist Abigél Králik, hailed as “a shooting star” (Mitteldeutcher Rundfunk Kultur), joins the Festival from Brussels, Belgium. She has recently performed as a concerto soloist with the Mexico City and Warsaw Philharmonics and studied under Itzhak Perlman at Juilliard. 

Pianist Andrew Armstrong, a favorite of Charlottesville audiences, is known for his virtuosity and engaging commentary. He directs multiple chamber music series, including USC Beaufort’s Chamber Music Series and Columbia’s Andy & Friends, and recently toured the UK with violinist James Ehnes. 

Cellist Raphael Bell, co-founder of the Festival, is principal cellist of the Antwerp Symphony Orchestra and co-director of La Loingtaine Music Center near Paris.

The Charlottesville Chamber Music Festival is a production of the Virginia Chamber Music Foundation. It brings high-level international instrumentalists to Charlottesville for two weeks every September and occasional concerts like this one during the year. 

This free concert is generously sponsored by The Joseph and Robert Cornell Memorial Foundation.

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If you plan to attend only free events at Tom Tom and would still like to build your schedule here on Sched, please register for a Free "Create Your Schedule" Ticket. You’ll then receive an email from Sched prompting you to build your schedule.

Join Foreign Playerz at The Vault for a special installation of their weekly Bachata Room - The All White Gala
Free Bachata lessons start at 8:30pm, then the party start at 9pm - 1am!

Tickets are $16 and you can purchase those at the door.

More info at the event page here!