Flywheel Investment Conference returns to Wenatchee, spotlighting startups and sparking rural innovation

Wenatchee will once again take center stage in Washington’s innovation economy this month as the 8th annual Flywheel Investment Conference brings investors, entrepreneurs, students, and educators together for three days of learning, connection, and bold new ideas.

Organized by NCW Tech Alliance in partnership with the Flywheel Angel Network, the conference runs May 21–23 and culminates in a live investment competition on the Numerica Performing Arts Center stage. Out of the 67 eligible companies that applied this spring, only six were selected to compete—placing them in the top 10% of the applicant pool and earning them the opportunity to pitch their ventures in front of a live audience and a panel of angel investors.

This year’s finalists include founders developing solutions in marine technology, clean energy, food innovation, and healthcare. From sea urchin ranching that restores kelp forests to affordable underwater monitoring tools, sustainable food wraps, FDA-approved arthritis supports and a medical device to expand access to contact lens technology, the ventures are tackling real-world problems with creativity and drive. There will be over $200,000 on the line as these top six companies compete with “Shark Tank” style pitches in front of a live audience at the Numerica PAC. 

What makes the Flywheel unique is more than just the size of the investment pool, it’s the fact that local investors are the ones making the decisions. Each year, the Flywheel Angel Network forms a new investment fund, and members commit their own capital to the conference’s top companies. This year’s Flywheel Fund is led by Leonard Backus, a seasoned startup executive with deep roots in Central Washington and decades of experience scaling tech firms to IPO and acquisition.

More than just a competition, the Flywheel serves as a catalyst for long-term economic growth for the region by fostering local entrepreneurship and strengthening the connection to investment networks across Washington State. By connecting promising founders with capital, mentorship, and community, the conference is helping to ensure that innovation and opportunity remain grounded in, and accessible to, local communities and businesses across Central Washington.

The conference has grown significantly since its founding, drawing hundreds of visitors from across the state to Wenatchee each year. This year’s format introduces new sector-specific sessions, an expanded exhibitor hall, and enhanced networking built around industries driving the local economy—like agriculture, energy, healthcare, and aerospace.

Importantly, Flywheel is designed to include and inspire emerging innovators. Students and educators can attend the Thursday and Friday daytime sessions for just $79. Full-access conference tickets are $299 and include two premier networking events and the full lineup of keynotes, panels, and receptions. New this year, there's also a locals ticket for $99 to attend the evening networking opportunities including the Thursday evening, Toast Around Town.

For the six finalists preparing to pitch this May, Flywheel is more than a stage. It’s a launchpad—and for the region, it’s a reminder that innovation doesn’t just live in big cities or tech corridors. It’s growing right here, nurtured by community, driven by local investment, and guided by the belief that entrepreneurship is key to a vibrant rural future.

The 2025 Flywheel Investment Conference is supported by Microsoft, Clark Nuber, and AEM Movement. More details, including tickets and the full conference agenda can be found at www.flywheelconference.com.