TECH: the Messy Middle

Real conversations about building, pivots, pressure, and navigating the founder journey.

Everybody loves the breakthrough story.
We’re talking about everything before it.

TECH: The Messy Middle brings together emerging tech founders for an honest conversation about what it really looks like to build while still figuring things out.

From growth challenges and pivots to uncertainty, traction, and funding pressure, the conversation explores the realities founders face between the idea and the breakthrough, with honest insights, shared experiences, and real-time lessons from people building in today’s tech ecosystem.

Featured voices include:
• A model turning heads with tech
• An MIT graduate reimagining a construction legacy through innovation
• A founder leveraging technology to help reduce the burden of overwhelming debt
• Moderated by a self-described “Tech Ninja”

The experience also includes curated networking designed to spark authentic conversation and connection among founders, future founders, creatives, and builders navigating tech in real time.

No awkward networking circles. Just smart people, honest conversations, and room to connect with others, building through the messy middle.

Presented by the New York Urban League Small Business SOLUTIONS Center with support from TD Bank, UPS, and the UP Foundation.

5:30 PM

 June 8, 2026 

TD Bank, America's Most Convenient Bank

1 Vanderbilt Avenue, New York, NY 10017

  

The event capacity is limited. When registering, the honor of your commitment is appreciated. 

Thank you.