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Summits

Where Your Story Takes the Spotlight.

2025 Truist Foundation Alumna

Summit is the culminating event for each Fellowship powered by Watson Institute, designed to empower Fellows to tell their stories, showcase their ventures, and deliver a powerful pitch that captures how far they’ve come—and where they’re headed.

Explore Highlights from the Truist Foundation Fellowship Summit

Summit Benefits

Refine Your Pitch and Build Presentation Skills

Over three weeks of the program, Fellows master the art of storytelling by refining their ability to communicate with clarity, confidence, and purpose. This continuous practice ensures that each Fellow’s final pitch is polished, impactful, and ready for any external audience.

Receive Supportive Feedback from Peers and Experts

Feedback from peers offers diverse perspectives, helping identify blind spots and spark fresh ideas in a supportive, collaborative environment. Guidance from experienced experts ensures alignment with professional standards, offering actionable insights to elevate messaging and delivery.

Walk Away with a Professional
Pitch Recording

Fellows leave with a professionally recorded 3–4 minute pitch, serving as a versatile asset for funding applications, marketing efforts, and future presentations. This lasting resource amplifies their venture’s vision, helping them make a lasting impact beyond the Summit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Summit?

The Summit is the grand finale of each Fellowship Watson Institute powers. It’s a high-energy showcase where Fellows pitch their ventures, share their stories of impact, and celebrate the culmination of their hard work with our global community — either virtually or in-person.

Is Summit a pitch competition?

No, it’s a celebration. While the pitches are professional and polished, there are no judges or rankings. Our goal is to provide a platform for Fellows to share their vision and for the community to witness the next generation of social-impact leadership.

Can I attend if I’m not a Fellow?

Absolutely. We welcome partners, funders, ecosystem builders, and anyone passionate about social entrepreneurship. Whether you join us in person or virtually, your presence helps support and amplify the work of these emerging leaders.

What is the "vibe" of the event?

Expect a mix of inspiration and networking. You’ll hear vulnerable, powerful storytelling followed by strategic pitches. In person, it feels like a high-level networking mixer; virtually, it’s an engaging, fast-paced broadcast.

How do I find the next Summit?

Scroll down to our “Upcoming Summits” section for dates, locations, and registration links.

Why should I attend a Summit?

Come to be inspired! You’ll get a front-row seat to the future of social impact. It’s the best place to meet the Fellows, hear their “why,” and find ways to collaborate or mentor.

Will I get to meet the Fellows?

Yes! We prioritize connection. In-person events feature dedicated networking time, and our virtual Summits utilize a live chat to ensure you can reach out to the Founders who inspire you.

How long should I clear my calendar?

We respect your time. Virtual Summits usually last less than 2 hours in the morning – no camera or mic required. In-person events are typically evening affairs lasting about 3 hours, including time for light bites, refreshments, and conversation.

Does it cost anything?

Not at all. Summits are free to attend because we want our community’s support to be accessible to everyone.

Unforgettable In-Person Summit Moments

Our Journey of Impact

20
Summits Hosted
6,800
Attendees Reached
230
Pitches Showcased

Explore Inspiring Pitches

The Value of Attending: Connect. Inspire. Impact

Network With Purpose

Summit brings together bold entrepreneurs, community leaders, and supporters from around the world — all united by a shared belief in the power of local leaders to tackle the toughest challenges. Whether you join an in-person or virtual Summit, you’ll engage with a network that’s building a better future.

Fuel Your Next Big Idea

Experience powerful pitches, innovative solutions, and personal stories that will leave you energized and motivated. You’ll walk away with new perspectives, creative ideas, and practical insights you can apply to your own work.

Be a Catalyst for Change

By attending Summit, you’re fueling the journey of promising entrepreneurs whose work will shape the social, economic, and environmental landscape for years to come. Your presence helps their voices reach further, accelerating solutions that matter.

Upcoming Summits

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The 2025-2026 Truist Foundation Fellowship Summit (In-Person)
June 18th — registration page coming soon!

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The 2025-2026 Truist Foundation Fellowship Summit (Virtual)
June 24th — registration page coming soon!

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The 2025-2026 Wells Fargo Small Business Fellowship Summit (In-Person)
Details and registration page coming soon!

Watch the Fellows in action as they bring their stories to life

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