FORGE 2026

Name: FORGE 2026
Start: 2026-10-28
End: 2026-10-28
Location: National Landing / Crystal City, Arlington, VA (exact address shown to approved registrants)

Organized by VC in DC

FORGE connects investors and startups in defense and dual-use technology in National Landing, with partners including Arlington Economic Development, National Innovation Quarter and JBG Smith. The event page says ventures have closed 28 funding rounds totaling more than $115 million since FORGE launched in March 2025. The event is free, and registration requires host approval, with separate tickets for investors, startups, sponsors and government.

Note: As of October 20, 2026 the Luma page shows this event as full. You can still join the waitlist or enter an access code.

What to expect

FORGE 2026 is the main event of VC in DC's FORGE series, which connects investors with startups working in defense and dual-use technology. According to the organizers, ventures that have taken part since FORGE launched in March 2025 have closed 28 funding rounds totaling more than $115 million. The event is limited to a cohort of 20 startups and a room of investors. Startups are selected by a group of VC and corporate peers. One selected company will receive a $100K investment from Cape Fear Ventures.

Who should attend

Investors, startup founders, sponsors and government attendees working in defense, national security and dual-use tech. Ticket types on Luma are Investor, Members-Only (VC in DC members, work email required), Sponsor and Government. Startups do not register through Luma; they apply separately at vcindc.com/forge.

Hosts and partners

The event is presented by VC in DC and hosted by Matt Gittleman and Bill Collier. Founding partners are Booz Allen Ventures and Red Cell Partners. FORGE is part of an effort with Arlington Economic Development, National Innovation Quarter and JBG Smith to build an innovation hub in National Landing focused on advanced computing, cybersecurity and defense technology. A separate after party has its own Luma listing.

Venue and access

The event takes place in National Landing (Crystal City), Arlington, VA. The exact address is shared only with approved registrants. No agenda, speaker list or start time has been published.

How to register

Request a ticket or join the waitlist on the FORGE 2026 Luma page. All ticket types require host approval.

Frequently asked questions

Can my startup register on Luma?

No. The Luma tickets are for investors, VC in DC members, sponsors and government attendees. Startups apply separately through vcindc.com/forge, and only 20 are selected.

Is the event still open?

The Luma page shows the event as full as of October 20, 2026. You can join the waitlist or use an access code if you have one.

Where exactly is it held?

In National Landing in Arlington, VA. The exact address is shown only after your registration is approved.

Is there funding on the line?

Yes. One selected startup will receive a $100K investment from Cape Fear Ventures.

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