IDEA Week San Diego

Innovation. Discovery. Expression. Art.

October 20-24, 2025

IDEA Week San Diego brings together the region’s vibrant life sciences, technology, and arts communities for a unique fusion of events — from live performances and creative showcases to innovation gatherings and community celebrations. Anchored by partners like La Jolla Playhouse, BioBreak, Catalent, and powered by Connect, it highlights the dynamic spirit of San Diego’s innovation ecosystem.

Join the Connect team and many others at the incredible events happening this week!

Innovation Night

La Jolla Playhouse

Monday, October 20

5:30 pm

La Jolla Playhouse’s signature event, Innovation Night, is San Diego’s premier networking event for the arts and sciences industries. The evening features an elegant cocktail reception for over 500 C-level executives, innovators, and guests, complete with delicious cuisine and an open bar. Attendees can also explore an Innovation gallery, featuring interactive exhibits from leading San Diego companies, and enjoy delightful Without Walls-inspired theatre.

San Diego BioBreak

Tuesday, October 21

5:30 pm

This premier networking event will bring together senior biopharma executives and investors for an evening of hors d’oeuvres, drinks, and meaningful connections.

BioBreak is an exclusive community designed to unite biopharma leaders and investors, fostering knowledge exchange, relationship-building, and collaboration across the industry.

Registration is limited to BioBreak members. Click here to view the membership criteria and click here to apply. We will confirm your registration once received.

Venture Summit

Wednesday, October 22

Now in its 22nd year, Connect’s Venture Summit is Southern California’s premier gathering for venture capitalists. This invite-only evening provides investors with curated access to San Diego’s thriving innovation ecosystem and the companies shaping its future.

Connect Forward: New Leadership & Bold Ideas

The Westin San Diego Gaslamp

Thursday, October 23

4:00 pm

Join us for Connect Forward—a public gathering to meet Connect’s new CEO, James Zanewicz, and hear firsthand about the bold direction ahead. Enjoy live music, appetizers, and a curated showcase of 30 exciting companies from the Connect community, plus meaningful networking with San Diego’s innovation leaders, investors, and entrepreneurs. Let’s look toward the future of innovation, together.

Blues Fest

Catalent San Diego

Friday, October 24

4:00 pm

Catalent’s Blues Fest Celebration returns for its 20th year, bringing together employees, customers, and industry partners for an evening of live music, food, and fun. Enjoy a performance from Grammy Award–winning blues musician Fuzzy Rankins, wood-fired pizza alongside cocktails and local craft beer, and family-friendly activities in a lively atmosphere.

Attendance is limited. Registration will be confirmed upon approval.