On Thursday evening, nearly 500 leaders, entrepreneurs, researchers, and ecosystem partners gathered to honor the individuals and organizations driving scientific and technological advancement in Southwest Virginia. Held at Virginia Tech’s Beamer-Lawson Indoor Practice Facility, the 25th annual TechNite—hosted by the Roanoke-Blacksburg Technology Council and presented by Woods Rogers—marked a significant milestone in the evolution of the region’s innovation economy.
This year’s event served not only as a celebration of 25 years of impact but also as a forward-looking reflection on the growing momentum within the Roanoke-Blacksburg innovation corridor. The evening highlighted the importance of regional collaboration, talent development, and visionary leadership in positioning Southwest Virginia as a competitive hub for technology, life sciences, and entrepreneurship.
VTCRC at the Forefront of Regional Innovation
The Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center (VTCRC) community was well-represented at this year’s ceremony, with multiple community members recognized for their extraordinary contributions to innovation and entrepreneurship. We are proud to spotlight three standout honorees:
David Ayares, Revivicor – Innovator of the Year
Dr. David Ayares, President and Chief Scientific Officer of Revivicor, was honored with the Innovator of the Year award for his pioneering contributions to regenerative medicine. Based at VTCRC, Revivicor is at the forefront of xenotransplantation—developing transplantable cells, tissues, and organs across species to meet an urgent global need.
Since founding Revivicor in 2003, Dr. Ayares has led the development of genetically engineered, human-compatible organs using porcine models. His visionary work addresses the critical shortage of transplantable organs worldwide, advancing both scientific knowledge and the potential to save countless lives.
Bacchus Therapeutics – Rising Star in Biotech
Bacchus Therapeutics, an emerging leader in early-stage biotechnology, was recognized as the Rising Star in Biotech. Founded by Dr. Arvin Gouw, a Stanford-trained cancer nanotechnology fellow, the company is developing a groundbreaking therapeutic targeting the hypermetabolic state characteristic of MYC-driven cancers.
By focusing on the critical intersection of metabolism and oncology, Bacchus aims to transform cancer treatment by disrupting the metabolic processes that sustain tumor growth. With a team grounded in cutting-edge research and clinical expertise, Bacchus is poised to make a significant impact on the future of cancer therapy.
Qentoros – Hart of the Entrepreneur Impact Award
Qentoros, led by Founder and Chief Scientific Officer Dr. Jessica Gilbertie, earned one of the evening’s highest honors: the Hart of the Entrepreneur Impact Award. Established to commemorate Bonz Hart—a visionary entrepreneur and mentor whose leadership was instrumental in shaping the region’s technology economy—this award recognizes exceptional impact and dedication to advancing innovation and entrepreneurship.
Qentoros is pioneering BIO-PLY, a cutting-edge platelet-based regenerative therapy engineered to heal severe orthopedic injuries in horses—injuries once deemed career-ending or fatal. By harnessing potent anti-inflammatory and tissue-regenerating properties, BIO-PLY exemplifies a transformative breakthrough at the forefront of veterinary science and translational medicine.
A Region on the Rise
Beyond our VTCRC community, TechNite 2025 honored a distinguished group of leaders and companies driving transformative progress across the region’s technology and life sciences sectors. From pioneering educators and biotech innovators to dedicated public officials and industry trailblazers, the event highlighted the remarkable depth and breadth of talent fueling the Roanoke-Blacksburg innovation corridor’s continued growth and impact.
Congratulations to all the TechNite award recipients, and sincere appreciation to RBTC for 25 years of TechNite—bringing together a connected, inclusive, and impactful innovation community.
To learn more about TechNite and view the full list of award recipients, click HERE.