Lightning Rounds are curated, 15-minute one-on-one meetings that connect startups with corporate venture capital teams, innovation leaders, and investors from world-leading companies. For startups, it’s a chance to get in front of decision-makers actively scouting for new technologies and solutions. For hosts, it’s an opportunity to meet pre-vetted startups aligned with their investment thesis or innovation goals. These high-intent sessions have led to real outcomes—including investments, pilot programs, and acquisitions.

Lighting Round Hosts provide the gener8tor team with a list of problem statements, areas of interest and/or investment thesis, prior to the conference. Our team pairs relevant startups with Lightning Round Hosts, allowing both to opt in to the meeting. At BOLT, Lightning Rounds occur the second day of the conference. Each Lightning Round is a fast-paced, focused conversation designed to spark meaningful connections. Startups get about five minutes to pitch, followed by discussion and Q&A—totaling up to 15 minutes. The format is structured but flexible: it’s less about closing a deal on the spot and more about starting a relationship that could lead to collaboration down the line. The gener8tor team will be onsite to manage timing, keep the energy high, and ensure everyone stays on track.