Events
Introduction to AI Native SDLC by Evolution Labs
Introduction to AI Native SDLC by Evolution Labs
Learning to code with AI? You’re not alone.
AI coding tools can feel magical — until they hit a context-window limit, time out halfway through a task, or forget what you just explained five minutes ago.
If you’re experimenting with AI-assisted development and wondering how to get more reliable results, join Evolution Labs for a free introduction to the AI-Native SDLC.
We’ll explore simple, practical methods for improving AI-coding outcomes, including how to think about context, workflow design, collaboration with AI tools, and building software in a more structured way.
This is a free community event for curious builders, developers, founders, and explorers who want to learn by doing.
At Evolution Labs, we’re sharing what we’ve learned so far — and creating a safe, like-minded community where we can all observe, experiment, and improve together.
Bring your questions. Share with a friend. Let’s learn and build together.
For more information and free early materials, visit:
www.evolutionlabs.dev
Intermediate AI Native SDLC by Evolution Labs
Intermediate AI Native SDLC by Evolution Labs
Already building with AI? Let's go deeper.
You've felt the magic and hit the wall — the context window that fills mid-task, the timeout that loses your work, the worker that forgets what you explained five minutes ago. Maybe you've already tried giving your AI a manual, scoping context, or opening an issue for every bug.
If you've experimented with the fundamentals of AI-assisted development and want to build more reliable, more ambitious systems, join Evolution Labs for an intermediate session on the AI-Native SDLC.
We'll go past the basics into the machinery that makes it hold up: the substrate as memory, the "dome" and its attachment points, grading systems that never let a worker grade its own paper, rituals that replace culture, and the operational practices that keep an AI-run codebase honest at scale.
This is a free community event for builders, developers, and founders who've already gotten their hands dirty and want to level up — ideally folks who've attended an intro session or worked through the early materials.
At Evolution Labs, we're sharing what we've learned running real software with an AI workforce, and growing a safe, like-minded community where we can all observe, experiment, and improve together.
Bring your questions and what you've built. Share with a friend. Let's learn and build together.
For more information and free early materials, visit: www.evolutionlabs.dev
AI for Business Panel: AI Automation
AI for Business Panel: AI Automation
AI automation is no longer just for big tech companies or large enterprise teams. Small businesses, consultants, and local organizations are now using AI tools to reduce repetitive work, improve customer follow-up, organize information, and create more efficient workflows.
Join us at Roseville Venture Lab for a practical panel discussion on AI for Automation featuring business owners and consultants who are actively helping companies put AI-powered systems to work. The panelists are Aaron Watkins, Nicholas Haystings, and Linda Gilbert.
The free monthly AI for Business series supported by the City of Roseville. Food and beverages are provided.
Agenda
6:00 – 6:30 PM — Networking (food + beverages)
6:30 – 7:30 PM — Panel discussion
7:30–8:00 PM — Audience Q&A + “steal these workflows” wrap-up
Date: Wednesday, August 5, 2026
Time: 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Location: Roseville Venture Lab, 316 Vernon Street, Ste #110
Cost: Free
Registration: Eventbrite
The Panelists
About Nicholas Haystings
Nicholas Haystings is a serial entrepreneur, systems strategist, and Founder & CEO of Suite Fleet Virtual Assistants, an AI-powered operations company helping founders scale through streamlined systems, automation, and executive support.
About
Linda Gilbert is a senior technology and product executive who builds, scales, and operates enterprise platforms across automation, SaaS, and complex business systems. She brings a practical leadership style focused on turning technology strategy into scalable products, stronger operations, and measurable business outcomes.
About Aaron Watkins
Aaron Watkins is the founder of CanItBeAutomated.com and Zapier's AI Innovator of the year. With 20 years of experience across automation, AI, and organizational change, Aaron focuses on helping teams simplify work, improve operations, and adopt new tools in ways that actually stick. He is currently the Lead Senior AI Engineer at the Blackstone backed network automation company NetBrain.
About the Roseville Venture Lab
The Roseville Venture Lab is open to the public and dedicated to strengthening local startup businesses, spurring job growth, and fostering a community of entrepreneurs through programs, events, partnerships, workforce development, and coworking space. For more information vist them at roseville.ca.us/VentureLab.
AI for Business 101: Practical Tools for Small Business
AI for Business 101: Practical Tools for Small Business
Join us for the kickoff of a new AI for Business workshop series. Whether you want to draft marketing emails in seconds, manage customer inquiries, or organize your meeting notes, modern AI tools can provide small businesses a competitive edge. No coding or technical background required. Food and beverages will be provided.
Agenda
6 - 6:30 pm: Networking
6:30 - 8 pm Presentation
Date: August 12, 2026
Time: 6 - 8 pm
Cost: $5
Location: Frequency Coworking & Events, 3249 Quality Drive, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670
Register: Eventbrite
Folsom AI Meet Up: Vibe Coding Panel Discussion
Folsom AI Meet Up: Vibe Coding Panel Discussion
Come join out our monthly AI gathering at Granite City Coworking, where we'll enjoy some pizza while engaging in laid-back AI discussions.
Startup Folsom and Granite City Coworking, invites you to our next AI Meetup.
Join us at Granite City Coworking for an evening of good pizza, fast shipping, and real-time collaboration. This month we’re featuring a panel discussion about vibe coding. The panelist include Orion Burdick, Justin Mendez, and Rachid Abadli.
As always, we're serving cold pizza and room temperature bottled water.
Date: August 18, 2026
Time: 6 pm
Location: Granite City Workspaces, 705 Gold Lake Drive, #Ste 250 Folsom, CA 95630
Cost: $5
Register: Eventbrite
Panelists
About Orion Burdick
Orion Burdick is a technology and product development leader with a background in software UI/UX design, engineering, and digital product development. He brings hands-on experience across mobile and web technologies, with a strong focus on building user-centered products that are practical, intuitive, and effective.
About Justin Mendez
Justin Mendez is Head of AI at GreyDot Marketing, where he helps business owners deploy AI in practical, revenue-focused ways. An Afghanistan veteran, father, and husband, Justin brings a service-minded approach to helping companies use technology to simplify operations, improve marketing, and move faster.
About Rachid Abadli
Rachid Abadli is an AI-native engineering leader and founder with more than 10 years of experience building and modernizing production systems across SaaS, payments, cybersecurity, and enterprise platforms. He focuses on using AI, cloud architecture, DevSecOps, and platform engineering to help teams build scalable, secure, and reliable software systems.
Startup Summer Party
Sacramento Summer Startup Party
Sacramento's legendary Summer Startup Party is back. Founders, builders & investors unite August 20 for Sacramento's biggest startup night.
Sacramento's Legendary Summer Startup Party is Back
Presented by The Urban Hive, Startup Grind Sacramento, and Sac Tech Week, in partnership with The City of Sacramento, StartupSac, Startup Folsom, and SacTech Social (SacTech, Inc).
Founded in 2014 as a partnership between Startup Grind Sacramento and The Urban Hive, the Sacramento Summer Startup Party has been the region's premier summer gathering for founders, programmers, builders, investors, creatives and community leaders. We're back on Thursday, August 20 — and this year we're going big.
What to expect:
Food + Cash Bar Light food included with your ticket. Cash bar all night.
Silent Pitch Competition: No stage. No mic. No nerves. Startups display a poster showcasing their idea, and attendees vote for their favorite throughout the evening. Two winners crowned at the end of the night — one chosen by judges, one chosen by the crowd — with $5,000+ in cash and in-kind prizes up for grabs. Free to participate for registered attendees.
Resource Expo: Discover the organizations, accelerators, programs, and resources fueling Sacramento's startup ecosystem. Tables are active from the time doors open until voting closes.
Open Mic: Ecosystem partners on the floor all night. Grab the mic anytime to point people to your table and get back to the party.
Door Prizes: Three Urban Hive memberships drawn from attendees who cast a vote. Must be registered to win.
After Party with SacTech Social: When the official event wraps, we're heading a block away to La Cosecha for the official after party, hosted by SacTech Inc
Date: August 20, 2026
Time: 5:30 pm - 8 pm
Location: The Urban Hive, 730 I Street, Sacramento, 95814
Cost: Starting at $15
Register: Startup Grind
Smart First Markets: Life Science & Medical Startups
Smart First Markets: Life Science & Medical Startups
Join us at Granite City Workspace for an interactive workshop led by Dr. Jordan R. Plews, co-founder of Elevai Labs on smart first markets
Founders in life science and medical innovation often assume their first path to market must follow the most complex regulatory route. In reality, some of the most effective commercialization strategies begin by identifying adjacent markets with lower barriers to entry, faster customer adoption, and earlier revenue potential.
Join MedStart for a conversation with Dr. Jordan Plews on how life science and medical startups can think more strategically about commercialization. Dr. Plews will explore how innovators can evaluate alternative entry points such as cosmetics, veterinary medicine, wellness, and other adjacent sectors that may offer a more efficient path to market while still building toward larger long-term opportunities.
This session will cover:
How to think about “first market” strategy for life science startups
Why some adjacent markets can offer faster commercialization pathways
How founders can use early market entry to generate traction, validation, and revenue
What to consider when balancing speed, regulatory complexity, and long-term positioning
Real-world ways startups can sequence their commercialization strategy more effectively
This event is designed for life science founders, medical innovators, startup executives, and ecosystem partners looking for practical ways to move promising technologies out of the lab and into the market.
If you want something a little punchier for Eventbrite or LinkedIn, here’s a tighter version:
Join MedStart for a practical discussion with Dr. Jordan Plews on faster commercialization strategies for life science and medical startups. Learn how founders can evaluate adjacent markets such as cosmetics and veterinary medicine as strategic first steps to gain traction, generate revenue, and reduce time to market.
Date: August 26, 2026
Time: 6:00 - 8 pm
Location: Granite City Workspaces, 705 Gold Lake Dr Ste 250, Folsom, CA 95630
Cost: $5
Register: Eventbrite
About Dr. Jordan Plews
CEO/CSO, entrepreneur, and scientist with over 20 years of experience bridging academic excellence and industry innovation. Specializing in regenerative medicine, biotechnology, and healthcare, he has successfully founded and scaled companies, built and led diverse, high-performing teams, and invented and launched groundbreaking products and technologies.
Academic foundation includes rigorous research at internationally recognized institutions such as Stanford University, University College London, and the University of Sheffield, supported by a deep technical background in Stem Cell Research, Biochemical Engineering, and Bioprocess Development. Transitioning seamlessly between academia and industry, he has leveraged his expertise to drive product innovation and commercialization at global healthcare leaders like Pfizer, along with founding multiple biotechnology and medical aesthetics startups.
His strengths include identifying market opportunities, developing advanced bio-scientific solutions, and effectively bringing new technologies from lab bench to market. Jordan is passionate about building dynamic teams, mentoring scientific and business talent, and creating collaborative cultures focused on results and innovation. His technical competencies include single-cell genomics and proteomics, RNA sequencing, advanced stem cell processing techniques, and comprehensive experience with regulatory processes and intellectual property management.
Through a combination of entrepreneurial vision, scientific rigor, and strategic business acumen, Jordan consistently aims to create impactful technologies that enhance human health and transform the future of medicine.
Folsom AI Meet Up featuring Ohana Dwellings Founder Jennifer Jones
Folsom AI Meet Up featuring Ohana Dwellings Founder Jennifer Jones
Come join out our monthly AI gathering at Granite City Coworking, where we'll enjoy some pizza while engaging in laid-back AI discussions.
Startup Folsom and Granite City Coworking, invites you to our next AI Meetup.
Join us at Granite City Coworking for an evening of networking and real-time collaboration. This month we’re featuring Ohana Dwelling Founder Jennifer Jones
As always, we're serving cold pizza and room temperature bottled water.
Date: September 15
Time: 6 pm
Location: Granite City Workspaces, 705 Gold Lake Drive, #Ste 250 Folsom, CA 95630
Cost: $5
Register: Eventbrite
About Jennifer Jones
Jennifer Jones is the founder of Ohana Dwellings and ADU Build Pro, platforms focused on transforming how homeowners and builders design, price, and plan accessory dwelling units (ADUs). With over a two decades of experience in real estate, construction and technology, she is innovating AI-driven tools that bring clarity, speed, and accuracy to the preconstruction process—helping projects move from idea to build-ready with confidence.
GrowTECH FEST 2026
GrowTECH FEST 2026
Join founders, entrepreneurs, investors, students, innovators, and community leaders for GrowTECH FEST 2026, Northern California's largest entrepreneurial conference north of Sacramento. Over two days in downtown Chico, you'll discover practical insights, make valuable connections, and experience the energy of one of the region's fastest-growing startup ecosystems.
Whether you're launching your first company, scaling an existing business, investing in startups, or supporting innovation, GrowTECH FEST offers opportunities to learn from experienced founders, meet potential partners, and connect with the people building the future of Northern California.
What to expect:
Inspiring keynote speakers and founder stories
Startup showcases and pitch opportunities
Interactive workshops and expert-led sessions
Investor, mentor, and ecosystem networking
Emerging technology demonstrations
Community events throughout downtown Chico
GrowTECH FEST is designed to bring together the entire entrepreneurial ecosystem—from students with their first idea to experienced founders, investors, and business leaders—to foster collaboration, accelerate innovation, and strengthen the North State startup community.
If you're looking to grow your business, expand your network, or discover what's next in entrepreneurship and technology, GrowTECH FEST 2026 is the place to be.
Dates: October 8 - 9
Location: Chico California
Cost: Starting at free for students
Register: EventMobi
Folsom AI Meet Up featuring AWS Partner Initiatives Manager Robby Gill
Folsom AI Meet Up featuring AWS Partner Initiatives Manager Robby Gill
Come join out our monthly AI gathering at Granite City Coworking, where we'll enjoy some pizza while engaging in laid-back AI discussions.
Startup Folsom and Granite City Coworking, invites you to our next AI Meetup.
Join us at Granite City Coworking for an evening of networking and real-time collaboration. This month we’re featuring AWS Partner Initiatives Manager Robby Gill
As always, we're serving cold pizza and room temperature bottled water.
Date: October 20
Time: 6 pm
Location: Granite City Workspaces, 705 Gold Lake Drive, #Ste 250 Folsom, CA 95630
Cost: $5
Register: Eventbrite
About Robby Gill
Robby Gill is a technology partnerships leader at Amazon Web Services (AWS), where he leads a team of business development professionals supporting AWS’s global ecosystem of independent software vendors. His work focuses on helping technology companies build stronger partnerships, expand their reach, and grow through AWS. Robby brings practical experience at the intersection of cloud technology, emerging innovation, and business strategy.
Folsom AI Meet Up featuring Suite Fleet Co-Founder Nicholas Haystings
Folsom AI Meet Up featuring Suite Fleet Co-Founder Nicholas Haystings
Come join out our monthly AI gathering at Granite City Coworking, where we'll enjoy some pizza while engaging in laid-back AI discussions.
Startup Folsom and Granite City Coworking, invites you to our next AI Meetup.
Join us at Granite City Coworking for an evening of networking and real-time collaboration. This month we’re featuring Suite Fleet Co-Founder Nicholas Haystings.
As always, we're serving cold pizza and room temperature bottled water.
Date: July 21, 2026
Time: 6 pm
Location: Granite City Workspaces, 705 Gold Lake Drive, #Ste 250 Folsom, CA 95630
Cost: $5
Register: Eventbrite
Introduction to AI Native SDLC by Evolution Labs
Introduction to AI Native SDLC by Evolution Labs
Learning to code with AI? You’re not alone.
AI coding tools can feel magical — until they hit a context-window limit, time out halfway through a task, or forget what you just explained five minutes ago.
If you’re experimenting with AI-assisted development and wondering how to get more reliable results, join Evolution Labs for a free introduction to the AI-Native SDLC.
We’ll explore simple, practical methods for improving AI-coding outcomes, including how to think about context, workflow design, collaboration with AI tools, and building software in a more structured way.
This is a free community event for curious builders, developers, founders, and explorers who want to learn by doing.
At Evolution Labs, we’re sharing what we’ve learned so far — and creating a safe, like-minded community where we can all observe, experiment, and improve together.
Bring your questions. Share with a friend. Let’s learn and build together.
For more information and free early materials, visit:
www.evolutionlabs.dev
AI for Business Workshop: Creating Video Using AI Tools
AI for Business Workshop: Creating Video Using AI Tools
AI video tools made practical. Join Jacob Rangel at Roseville Venture Lab to learn faster ways to create better business videos.
Creating Video Using AI Tools: How to Make Better Videos Faster with AI
In this workshop, you’ll learn how to use AI tools to support real video creation workflows—from idea generation and scripting to storyboarding, editing, captions, and repurposing content for social media.
We’ll cover how AI is changing video production, where it fits in the creative process, and how founders, small business owners, marketers, and nonprofits can use these tools to create more video content without needing a full production team.
The workshop will be led byJacob Rangel founder of Jacob Rangel Productions.
You’ll see practical examples, real-world use cases, and ideas you can apply right away.
Perfect for founders, small business owners, marketers, nonprofit leaders, and anyone who wants to create better video content using AI.
Agenda
6:00 - 6:30: Networking with food and beverages provided
6:30 - 8:00: Workshop: Creating Video Using AI Tools
Every month, we’ll dive deeper into ways AI can help businesses thrive in the digital age. This is part of a free monthly series supported by the City of Roseville. Food and beverages will be provided.
Cold pizza and warm water will be provided.
Date: Wednesday, July 1, 2026
Time: 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Location: Roseville Venture Lab, 316 Vernon Street, Ste #110
Cost: Free
Registration: Eventbrite
About the Roseville Venture Lab
The Roseville Venture Lab is open to the public and dedicated to strengthening local startup businesses, spurring job growth, and fostering a community of entrepreneurs through programs, events, partnerships, workforce development, and coworking space. For more information vist them at roseville.ca.us/VentureLab.
frAIdays at Granite City: Three Tracks. One Rush.
frAIdays is the monthly AI gathering for the Folsom · Rancho Cordova · Hwy 50 corridor.
We start with lunch and optional guided conversation tables, then break into practical sessions based on where you are in your AI journey.
Whether you’re just getting started, already using AI at work, or building AI into products and systems, there’s a place for you here.
No gatekeeping. No generic AI hype. Just useful conversations, local connections, and practical ways to put these tools to work.
Bring your stack. Or come find one.
Hosted at Granite City Workspaces
frAIdays is hosted at Granite City Workspaces in Historic Downtown Folsom, a home base for founders, builders, remote teams, small businesses, and community-led innovation. Weather and setup permitting, some sessions may also be available outdoors on the patio using silent disco headphones.
Date: Friday, June 2026
Time: 11:45 AM – 2:00 PM
Location: The Commons at Granite City, 705 Gold Lake Dr., Suite 150, Folsom, CA 95630
Cost: Free
Register: Luma
Startup Happy Hour With Growth Factory Ventures Managing Partner Rick Spencer
Building a startup is better together. Join us for a Startup Happy Hour designed to bring Sacramento founders and creators into one room to share ideas and support one another. Whether you are an experienced entrepreneur or just launching your first project, this is a welcoming space to find your peers and strengthen our local network.
Spend the evening discovering how local collaboration leads to new opportunities while enjoying great conversations and delicious appetizers. Come be a part of a supportive community that believes shared success is the best kind of success.
Do not miss this chance to connect with the people who are actively building the future of the Sacramento startup scene.
AMA
AMA Guest Speaker is Rick Spencer Managing Partner at Growth Factory Ventures
Eats!
Delicious appetizers are being provided for this event.
Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to expand your network and have a blast at the same time. RSVP now to save your spot!
Your Hosts
Startup Happy Hour is organized monthly by StartupSac and the Carlsen Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship.
Sponsored By
The City of Roseville
Date: Tuesday, June 23
Time: 5 - 7 pm
Location: Roseville Venture Lab 316 Vernon St STE 110, Roseville, CA 95678, USA
Cost: $10
Register: 3 Common
About Rick Spencer
Rick Spencer is the Managing Partner of Growth Factory Ventures, a position he has held since 2021 following a career as a startup founder and executive. He leads the portfolio development of over 60 companies across various sectors, including health, food, and technology. Spencer is also a board member for The Idea Village Momentum Fund, focusing on high-growth founders.
Innovation RX: Sacramento's Healthare Entrepreneurs Shaping the Future of Healthcare
Innovation RX: Sacramento's Healthare Entrepreneurs Shaping the Future of Healthcare
Launching a healthcare company is one thing.
Getting it to scale is another. In this Sacramento Healthcare Alliance event, join founders, investors, and clinicians for a moderated roundtable discussion on what it actually takes to move healthcare innovation from concept to real-world adoption.
We'll skip the pitch culture and go deeper into the hard parts: building the right partnerships, navigating reimbursement, driving clinical adoption, managing operational growth, and staying grounded as the healthcare landscape keeps shifting.
This is a working conversation. Whether you're building something, funding something, or practicing medicine while wondering if there's a better way, this room is for you.
Topics on the table:
• Translating technology into clinical practice
• Reimbursement pathways and payer strategy
• Partnership and implementation challenges
• Operational scaling beyond the early stage
• Navigating regulatory and market shifts in 2026 and beyond
Space is limited. Register to hold your seat.
Date: Wednesday, June 10, 2026
Time: 6 - 8 pm
Location: Granite City Workspaces, 705 Gold Lake DriveFolsom, California, 95630
Cost: Free
Register: Luma
AI for Business Panel: Favorite AI Tools
AI for Business Panel: Favorite AI Tools
Local business owners discuss their favorite AI tools (that aren't LLMs) and how they use it in their business? Our panelist this month include Nicolas Hastings, Dr. Scott Campit, and Reneta Jenik.
The free monthly AI for Business series supported by the City of Roseville. Food and beverages are provided.
Agenda
6:00 – 6:30 PM — Networking (food + beverages)
6:30 – 7:30 PM — Panel discussion
7:30–8:00 PM — Audience Q&A + “steal these workflows” wrap-up
Who should attend
Business owners, operators, team leads, consultants, and anyone who wants practical ways to use AI for real work—no coding required, no “AI will replace your staff tomorrow” doom talk.
Date: Wednesday, June 3, 2026
Time: 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Location: Roseville Venture Lab, 316 Vernon Street, Ste #110
Cost: Free
Registration: Eventbrite
About the Roseville Venture Lab
The Roseville Venture Lab is open to the public and dedicated to strengthening local startup businesses, spurring job growth, and fostering a community of entrepreneurs through programs, events, partnerships, workforce development, and coworking space. For more information vist them at roseville.ca.us/VentureLab.
Folsom AI Meet Up featuring Core Envision Founder Mauro Sica
Folsom AI Meet Up featuring Core Envision Founder Mauro Sica
Come join out our monthly AI gathering at Granite City Coworking, where we'll enjoy some pizza while engaging in laid-back AI discussions.
Startup Folsom and Granite City Coworking, invites you to our next AI Meetup.
Join us at Granite City Coworking for an evening of networking and real-time collaboration. This month we’re featuring Core Envision Founder Mauro Sica.
As always, we're serving cold pizza and room temperature bottled water.
Date: May 19
Time: 6 pm
Location: Granite City Workspaces, 705 Gold Lake Drive, #Ste 250 Folsom, CA 95630
Cost: $5
Register: Eventbrite
About Mauro Sica
Mauro Sica is a passionate and innovative professional with a degree in Architecture and more than a decade of experience in the construction industry. He is known for exceptional problem-solving skills and specializes in driving advancements that improve traditional building practices. His work has focused on developing cost-effective prefabrication systems that enable projects to be completed significantly faster and at a fraction of the cost of both traditional construction and conventional prefabrication methods. He is dedicated to raising industry standards through solutions that balance efficiency, sustainability, and design excellence.
Using Agentic AI for Marketing: From Prompts to Real Workflows
Using Agentic AI for Marketing: From Prompts to Real Workflows
Learn how agentic AI can help you plan campaigns, create content, and execute marketing faster.
Using Agentic AI for Marketing: How to Build Smarter Campaigns with AI
AI can do more than write a caption.
In this hands-on workshop, you’ll learn how to use agentic AI to support real marketing workflows—from campaign planning and content creation to repurposing, follow-up, and execution. We’ll cover what agentic AI is, how it differs from basic prompting, where it fits in marketing today, and how to use it practically in your business.
You’ll see a live demo, real-world examples, and practical ideas you can apply right away.
Perfect for founders, small business owners, marketers, and anyone who wants to use AI as more than just a chatbot.
Agenda
6:00 - 6:30: Networking with food and beverages provided
6:30 - 8:00: Using Agentic AI for Marketing
What to Expect
In this session, we go beyond one-off AI prompts and show you how to use agentic AI to actually support your marketing workflow.
Understand what agentic AI is and how it differs from basic prompting
Learn how to give AI a goal, context, and steps so it can help with multi-step marketing tasks
Campaign planning: use AI to generate messaging angles, content themes, and promotion ideas
Content repurposing: turn one webinar, blog post, or event into emails, social posts, and follow-up content
Marketing execution: create practical workflows for email, social media, event promotion, and nurture sequences
Live demonstration: see how AI can go from one idea to multiple usable marketing assets in real time
Best practices and guardrails: where AI helps most, where human review still matters, and how to avoid generic output
This workshop includes an interactive demo where you’ll see how to build a repeatable workflow for a marketing task.
Every month, we’ll dive deeper into ways AI can help businesses thrive in the digital age. This is part of a free monthly series supported by the City of Roseville. Food and beverages will be provided. Find out more about the series and the Roseville Venture Lab at https://www.roseville.ca.us/venturelab.
Date: Wednesday, May 6
Time: 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Location: Roseville Venture Lab, 316 Vernon Street, Ste #110
Cost: Free
Registration: Eventbrite
About the Roseville Venture Lab
The Roseville Venture Lab is open to the public and dedicated to strengthening local startup businesses, spurring job growth, and fostering a community of entrepreneurs through programs, events, partnerships, workforce development, and coworking space. For more information vist them at roseville.ca.us/VentureLab.
Startup Happy Hour With Technovate Founder Farid Ismayilzada
Startup Happy Hour With Technovate Founder Farid Ismayilzada
Building a startup is better together. Join us for a Startup Happy Hour designed to bring Sacramento founders and creators into one room to share ideas and support one another. Whether you are an experienced entrepreneur or just launching your first project, this is a welcoming space to find your peers and strengthen our local network.
Spend the evening discovering how local collaboration leads to new opportunities while enjoying great conversations and delicious appetizers. Come be a part of a supportive community that believes shared success is the best kind of success.
Do not miss this chance to connect with the people who are actively building the future of the Sacramento startup scene.
Featured Guest
Our featured guest is Farid Ismayilzada Founder of Technovate
Info
Date: April 28, 2026
Time: 5 pm - 7 pm
Location: LogOff Brewing 3054 Sunrise Blvd J, Rancho Cordova
Cost: $10
Register: 3common
Host: StartupSac
Sponsor: City of Rancho Cordova
Inductive Automation Open House
Inductive Automation Open House
Ever wonder what powers the world’s most innovative industrial automation platform?
Inductive Automation is opening its doors to the regional tech community—from seasoned engineers and professional organizations to the next wave of graduates. Join us for an afternoon dedicated to the "Uniquely Inductive" culture, our mission to redefine industrial software, and a look inside our Software Engineering and Support divisions. Whether you’re looking to pivot, grow, or simply connect with fellow builders, come see how we’re shaping the future of the industry.
Who Should Attend?
This event is designed for tech enthusiasts and professionals at every stage of their journey:
Software Engineers & Tech Professionals: Members of SWE, diversity-in-tech groups, and local professional meetups.
Recent Grads & Students: Computer Science, Engineering, and IT majors preparing for their next step.
Emerging Developers: Bootcamp participants and self-taught developers focused on Java, Python, or Full-Stack.
Community Partners: Career services and educators looking to bridge the gap between talent and industry.
Event Itinerary
2:00PM
Networking Reception: Connect with our team and peers over light food and refreshments.
2:15 PM
About IA: Get an inside look at our company mission, our growth, and what makes our culture distinct.
3:00 PM
Divisional Panels & Q&A: Get direct insights from our Support and Software Engineering teams about their day-to-day tech stack and culture.
🚀 Explore Your Future: We are always looking for exceptional talent. If you’re interested in upcoming opportunities, our recruitment team will be on-site to connect—feel free to have your LinkedIn or digital resume ready to share.
Folsom AI Meet Up featuring Pooli Founder Kevin Weiler
Folsom AI Meet Up featuring Pooli Founder Kevin Weiler
Come join out our monthly AI gathering at Granite City Coworking, where we'll enjoy some pizza while engaging in laid-back AI discussions.
Startup Folsom and Granite City Coworking, invites you to our next AI Meetup.
Join us at Granite City Coworking for an evening of networking and real-time collaboration. This month we’re featuring Pooli Founder Kevin Weiler.
As always, we're serving cold pizza and room temperature bottled water.
Date: April 22
Time: 6 pm
Location: Granite City Workspaces, 705 Gold Lake Drive, #Ste 250 Folsom, CA 95630
Cost: $5
Register: Eventbrite
Fireside Chat with Sandy Paige, Co-Managing Director of Seabright Ventures Fund
Fireside Chat with Sandy Paige, Co-Managing Director of Seabright Ventures Fund
Startup Grind and MedStart invite you to a fireside chat with Sandy Paige, co-Managing Director of Seabright Ventures Fund, a family office investing in search funds, pharma/biotech services, -aaS conversions, clean tech, and other long-term “curious” opportunities.
Sandy is widely known for helping build fractional infrastructure businesses—think “as-a-service” models outside of software. He led the sourcing, acquisition, scaling, and 2022 exit of Explora BioLabs, expanding from 7 to 25+ de novo locations and growing into a dominant Vivarium-as-a-Service (VaaS) provider before its acquisition by Charles River Laboratories.
In this conversation, we’ll dig into:
How a family office evaluates opportunities (patient capital, concentrated conviction, and what they won’t invest in)
What “fractional infrastructure” actually is—and why it’s exploding now
How to source, acquire, and scale lower-middle-market companies (search fund reality, not fantasy)
Building regulated, physical operations across multiple hubs without losing your mind
Where the next “XaaS” opportunities are hiding (biotech, services, facilities, and beyond)
Come for the insights, stay for the practical takeaways—and bring questions for live Q&A.
Date: April 15, 2026
Time: 6:00 - 8 pm
Location: The Urban Hive, 730 I Street, Sacramento, 95814
Cost: $5
Register: Startup Grind
Startup Challenge Spring 2026
Startup Challenge Spring 2026
This is a 3-day event.
The Startup Challenge is a weekend of DOING not TALKING and we will support you in making traction on an idea you have been looking to bring to fruition! It is a weekend-long experiential learning event: Friday night through Sunday night. Teams must be present for the bulk of the weekend.
We begin by forming teams around brand-new ideas.
Anyone’s welcome to participate — even if you don’t have an idea.
Teams have just one weekend to turn the idea into a real business, and you’ll learn how by doing it.
We have all the resources you need to succeed.
No business knowledge or special skills required.
If you’re wondering if the Startup Challenge is right for you, then it probably is!
Need More Info?
Join a brief Info Session to find out if the Challenge is right for you!
Wednesday, March 25, 5:30 - 6 PM on Zoom RSVP
Or, watch a recording of our first Info Session here.
This is the flagship event in the Sacramento startup ecosystem. So what are you waiting for? It’s time to stop thinking and start doing.
Note: You must be 18 years or older to participate.
Daily Schedule:
Friday, April 10: 5:00 - 11:00 PM
Saturday, April 11, 9:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Sunday, April 12, 9:00 AM - 8:30 PM
Note: On Friday and Saturday, the venue closes at 11:00 PM.
Accessibility: If any special accommodations are needed please let us know at least two weeks in advance to secure the needed accommodations.
Refunds: Refunds will only be given upon request up to 7 days prior to the event.
Location: Carlsen Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, 6000 Jed Smith Dr Library 1520, Sacramento, CA 95819
Cost: $37.65 (Student) $104.82 (General Admission)
Register: 3 Common
AI for Business Panel: Real AI Use in Finance, Marketing & Support
AI for Business Panel: Real AI Use in Finance, Marketing & Support
Local business owners share real AI workflows for finance, marketing & customer service—plus guardrails, live examples, and Q&A.
AI for Business Panel: How Real Business Owners Use AI for Finance, Marketing & Customer Service
Curious how businesses are actually using AI? Join us for a practical panel discussion with local business owners who use tools like ChatGPT in their day-to-day work—especially in finance, marketing, and customer service. You’ll hear what’s working, what’s not, and the simple workflows that save time, reduce busywork, and help teams move faster without hiring a small army.
The free monthly AI for Business series supported by the City of Roseville. Food and beverages are provided.
Featured Business:
Agenda
6:30–7:00 PM — Networking (food + beverages)
7:00 –8:00 PM — Panel discussion
7:30–8:00 PM — Audience Q&A + “steal these workflows” wrap-up
Who should attend
Business owners, operators, team leads, consultants, and anyone who wants practical ways to use AI for real work—no coding required, no “AI will replace your staff tomorrow” doom talk.
Date: Tuesday, April 7
Time: 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Location: Roseville Venture Lab, 316 Vernon Street, Ste #110
Cost: Free
Registration: Eventbrite
About the Roseville Venture Lab
The Roseville Venture Lab is open to the public and dedicated to strengthening local startup businesses, spurring job growth, and fostering a community of entrepreneurs through programs, events, partnerships, workforce development, and coworking space. For more information vist them at roseville.ca.us/VentureLab.
Folsom AI Meet Up featuring HMCI.AI Chief Innovation Officer J.P. Morgan
Folsom AI Meet Up featuring HMCI.AI Chief Innovation Officer J.P. Morgan
Come join out our monthly AI gathering at Granite City Coworking, where we'll enjoy some pizza while engaging in laid-back AI discussions.
Startup Folsom and Granite City Coworking, invites you to our next hands-on AI Meetup.
Join us at Granite City Coworking for an evening of good pizza, fast shipping, and real-time collaboration. This month we’re featuring HMCI.AI Chief Innovation Officer J.P. Morgan.
As always, we're serving cold pizza and room temperature bottled water.
Date: March 17
Time: 6 pm
Location: Granite City Workspaces, 705 Gold Lake Drive, #Ste 250 Folsom, CA 95630
Cost: $5
Register: Eventbrite
Micro Biz Launchpad Weekend
Micro Biz Launchpad Weekend
Build something real — in a weekend
We’re living in the most exciting time in history. With no-code and AI tools, everyday people — not just developers — can now build software products & automations in days, not months.
Whether you're dreaming of launching a startup or simply want more freedom in your career, this weekend is your opportunity to start building.
🧠 In just 2 days, you’ll walk away with:
A working MVP or prototype
Insight into tools, workflows & platforms to build smarter
Clarity on your idea—or how to streamline and scale what you already do
Personalized feedback from experienced builders
Strategies and tools for marketing & funding your micro biz
A new network of supportive community members, professionals and entrepreneurs
✅ This weekend Is for:
Action-oriented learners (no coding experience required)
Developers & no-code builders
Aspiring founders validating ideas
Designers wanting to prototype
Professionals looking to stay ahead in an AI-driven world
Entrepreneurs ready to automate operations or marketing with AI and no-code tools
❌ This weekend Is Not for:
People who need a step-by-step curriculum
Passive content consumers
Anyone prioritizing perfection over getting things done
📍 Event Details
🗓️ DATES: March 14–15 (Sat & Sun)
⏰ TIME: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM both days
🍽️ Optional Dinner: Sat 5–7 PM (not included in event price)
🌯 Lunch provided both days (included in the price)
📍 LOCATION
This is an in-person event with 2 location options:
You are viewing our NorCal event page:
Sacramento County, CA
Granite City Workspaces, Folsom, CA (details provided after registration). We have a venue upgrade this quarter! Much more space!
Go here for our SoCal listing:
Orange County, CA
https://luma.com/sasvoh5p
While these events are designed for building in local community, NorCal and SoCal locations will come together via Zoom a few times throughout the weekend.
📘 FAQ
Q: I don't have a clear idea of what I want to build. Is Launchpad Weekend for me?
A: Yes. We meet you where you're at. Setup a 15-minute brainstorm call with Ryan: rtm3001@gmail.com, put "Launchpad Weekend Nov 8-9" in the subject.
Q: I'm not sure I can learn the tools fast enough. Is Launchpad Weekend for me?
A: Experience with tools is not as important. What is important is your mindset... that you can figure it out. Keep in mind, AI tools like Gemini, Claude and ChatGPT can walk you through anything you want to create. You also have an expert team unblock you throughout the weekend. If you're not sure, setup a 15-minute call with Co-founder, Ryan: rtm3001@gmail.com, put "Launchpad Weekend Mar 14-15" in the subject.
🗻 Minimum commitment
Attend the entire weekend (dates & times above)
Speak with your Mentor by phone for 15 minutes, shortly after you apply
Attend a 1-hour prep session about 1 week before the Launchpad Weekend (we'll accommodate your schedule)
✨ Optional
We offer working sessions following the Launchpad Weekend for those who attended the entire weekend. These are a free extension of the Launchpad Weekend. We also host a free online speaker series for our community.
⚡ EARLY BIRD PRICING
💸 Register by Feb 25: $119 ($500 value)
💸 Register by Mar 12: $149 ($500 value)
👥 Capacity: 20 people max per location
Your payment is a donation and is tax-deductible, made to Granite City Foundation, a 501c3 org. No refunds.
Our Mission is to empower community members and entrepreneurs across California to take charge of their future by launching micro businesses and learning the latest in AI and automation tools. We keep the price of our events as low as possible in service to our communities. We also offer need-based scholarships to ensure our workshops are accessible to everyone, regardless of financial circumstances.
All participants fill out a brief application. We want to make sure that what we offer is what you're looking for. Spots are first-come, first-served, so don’t wait. This is our 5th run of Launchpad Weekend. We expect all seats will fill up quickly.
We keep our cohorts limited to 20 people so that we can provide each individual the quality of support they deserve.
https://microbizlaunchpad.org/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/microbizlaunchpad/
Location
Please register to see the exact location of this event.
Folsom, California
AI for Business : ChatGPT Deep Dive for Real Work
AI for Business : ChatGPT Deep Dive for Real Work
AI for Business Workshop: ChatGPT Deep Dive — Prompt Engineering, Files, Data, Images & Custom GPTs
Join us for a hands-on deep dive into ChatGPT—built for small business owners and teams who want practical results, not AI theory. You’ll learn how to personalize ChatGPT, upload and work with files, run data analysis, generate images, build Custom GPTs, and write prompts that consistently produce useful output. No coding or technical background required. Food and beverages will be provided.
Agenda
6:00 - 6:30: Networking with food and beverages provided
6:30 - 8:00: ChatGPT Deep Dive
What to Expect
In this session, we go beyond “chatting with AI” and show you how to use ChatGPT like a real business tool.
Set up ChatGPT personalization so it matches your role, tone, and goals
Prompt engineering that works: a simple framework you can reuse for any task
File uploads: turn documents into summaries, checklists, and SOPs
Data analysis: upload a spreadsheet/CSV and get insights, trends, and next steps
Image generation: create marketing-ready image concepts and variations quickly
Custom GPTs: build a reusable assistant with instructions, guardrails, and knowledge files
This workshop includes live demos and a quick interactive exercise where you’ll build a repeatable workflow for one task you do every week (and wish you didn’t).
Every month, we’ll dive deeper into ways AI can help businesses thrive in the digital age. This is part of a free monthly series supported by the City of Roseville. Food and beverages will be provided. Find out more about the series and the Roseville Venture Lab at https://www.roseville.ca.us/venturelab.
Date: Wednesday, March 4
Time: 6 – 8 p.m.
Location: Roseville Venture Lab, 316 Vernon St STE 110, Roseville, CA 95678
Cost: Free
Register: Eventbrite
Folsom Tech Week
Folsom Tech Week 2026
Folsom Tech Week is Northern California's premier gathering of entrepreneurs, technologists, investors, and government leaders. Over four transformative days, we’re bringing together thAccess to all keynote sessions and panels
FTW Hackathon participation
Exclusive networking events and mixers
Startup Pitch Competition access
Meals and refreshments throughout the event
Exclusive FTW swag and materialse brightest minds to explore how technology can drive innovation, efficiency, and impact across industries.
Whether you're a startup founder, an industry leader, a developer, or someone passionate about shaping the future, this is your opportunity to connect, collaborate, and create.
Dates: March 3 - 6, 2026
Location: 705 Gold Lake Dr Ste 250, Folsom, CA 95630
Cost: $80 (Early Bird)
Register: FolsomTechWeek.com
What’s included in your ticket:
Access to all keynote sessions and panels
FTW Hackathon participation
Exclusive networking events and mixers
Startup Pitch Competition access
Meals and refreshments throughout the event
Exclusive FTW swag and materials
1 Million Cups Sacramento at Granite City Coworking
1 Million Cups Sacramento at Granite City Coworking
1 Million Cups Sacramento is having an in-person meetup on Wednesday, February 25, at Granite City Coworking.
We’re looking forward to seeing everyone in our community face-to-face!
This will be a hybrid meeting so those who can't come in person can join us on zoom.
Our presenter will be Jax Scott with Ragnar STACK. Ragnar STACK is unified healthcare technology that focuses on simplicity of complexity providing small-mid size clinics with everything they need through one unified approach. 10% of the net profits go back into the Special Operations Association of America and is part of the Valkyrie project to provide special operators with access to leadership and capital to establish and grow businesses.
Date: February 25
Time: 8:00 am to 10:00 am
Location: Granite City Workspace, 705 Gold Lake Dr, Ste 250 Folsom, CA 95630
Cost: Free
Register: Eventbrite
Veteran Entrepreneur Tribe of Sacramento - Using AI to Level Up Your Business
Startup Folsom in conjunction with Veteran Entrepreneur Tribe of Sacramento is hosting ”Using AI to Level Up Your Business”—a hands-on workshop designed for small business owners.
Join Us for the Veteran Entrepreneur Tribe of Sacramento Event!
Connect with veteran entrepreneurs and supporters at our first networking event! Whether you’re a veteran, military spouse, or an ally, this is your chance to build relationships, swap stories, and grow your business alongside people who get it. Join a supportive community built on leadership, resilience, and innovation. Everyone is welcome to network and collaborate.
Featured Workshop: The Art of Prompt Engineering
This month’s session is led by our own Rich Foreman and is designed for small business owners who want to use AI effectively (without the hype). Rich will cover:
A practical overview of artificial intelligence
Key risks and common pitfalls when using AI
A simple framework for writing clear, consistent prompts that get better results
Come for the connections—leave with new contacts and a skill you’ll use the next day.
About Veteran Entrepreneur Tribe of Sacramento
The Veteran Entrepreneur Tribe of Sacramento is dedicated to empowering military veterans through entrepreneurship, providing them with the resources, mentorship, and community support needed to launch and grow successful businesses. For more information, visit https://veteranentrepreneurtribe.com/
Date: February 19, 2026
Time: 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Location: Granite City Workspaces, 705 Gold Lake Dr Ste 250, Folsom, CA 95630, USA
Cost: Free
Registration: Luma
Folsom AI Meet Up w/ CaterAI Founder Jason Wang
Folsom AI Meet Up w/ CaterAI Founder Jason Wang
Come join out our monthly AI gathering at Granite City Coworking, where we'll enjoy some pizza while engaging in laid-back AI discussions.
Startup Folsom and Granite City Coworking, invites you to our next hands-on AI Meetup.
Join us at Granite City Coworking for an evening of good pizza, fast shipping, and real-time collaboration. This month we’re featuring CaterAI Founder Jason Wang.
Date: February 17
Time: 6 - 8 pm
Location: Granite City Workspaces, 705 Gold Lake Drive #Ste 250 Folsom, CA 95630
Cost: $5
Registration: Eventbrite
AI for Business 101: Practical Tools and Real-World Uses for Small Business (Roseville Venture Lab)
AI for Business 101: Practical Tools and Real-World Uses for Small Business (Roseville Venture Lab)
Join us at Roseville Venture Lab for the first in a new AI for Business workshop series supported by the City of Roseville. In this kickoff
AI for Business 101: Practical Tools and Real-World Uses for Small Business
Join us for the kickoff of a new AI for Business workshop series. Whether you want to draft marketing emails in seconds, manage customer inquiries, or organize your meeting notes, modern AI tools can provide small businesses a competitive edge. No coding or technical background required. Food and beverages will be provided.
What to Expect
In this session, we cut through the hype to show you how AI works.
Understand what AI is.
Discover how AI fits into your daily operations, from marketing to administrative tasks.
A look at popular, user-friendly tools like ChatGPT, NotebookLM, Claude, and
Gemini.
Learn how to use these tools safely and what information you should keep private.
Get simple prompts and day-one use cases you can implement immediately.
This session includes a live demo and a quick interactive exercise designed to help you identify one repetitive task in your business that AI can help with.
Every month, we’ll dive deeper into ways AI can help businesses thrive in the digital
age. This is part of a free monthly series supported by the City of Roseville. Food and
beverages will be provided. Find out more about the series and the Roseville Venture Lab at roseville.ca.us/VentureLab.
Date: Wednesday, Feb. 4
Time: 6 – 8 p.m.
Location: Roseville Venture Lab, 316 Vernon Street, Ste #110
Cost: Free
Registration: Eventbrite
About the Roseville Venture Lab
The Roseville Venture Lab is open to the public and dedicated to strengthening local startup businesses, spurring job growth, and fostering a community of entrepreneurs through programs, events, partnerships, workforce development, and coworking space. For more information vist them at roseville.ca.us/VentureLab.
2025 Pitch Elk Grove Medical Startups Finalist Panel Discussion
2025 Pitch Elk Grove Medical Startups Finalist Panel Discussion
Join Startup Grind Sacramento and MedStart for a special panel featuring the 2025 Pitch Elk Grove Medical Startup Finalists:
HuMOLYTE (1st Place Winner): Patented electrolyte mix designed to ease chemo-related side effects.
EnlitenAI (2nd Place Winner): AI-driven clinical decision support tool for personalized neurology care.
Hear firsthand from the medical finalists about their startup journeys, what they learned from the competition, and how Pitch Elk Grove has shaped their next steps.
Date: Wednesday, January 28, 2025
Time: 6 pm - 8 pm
Cost: $5
Location: InnoGrove, 8153 Elk Grove Blvd #20, Elk Grove, CA 95758
Register: Eventbrite
Startup Happy Hour with FYC Labs CEO Justin Fortier
Startup Happy Hour with FYC Labs CEO Justin Fortier
Building a startup is better together. Join us for a Startup Happy Hour designed to bring Sacramento founders and creators into one room to share ideas and support one another. Whether you are an experienced entrepreneur or just launching your first project, this is a welcoming space to find your peers and strengthen our local network.
Spend the evening discovering how local collaboration leads to new opportunities while enjoying great conversations and delicious appetizers. Come be a part of a supportive community that believes shared success is the best kind of success.
Do not miss this chance to connect with the people who are actively building the future of the Sacramento startup scene.
AMA
Guest is Justin Fortier, founder of FYC Labs.
Eats!
Delicious appetizers and beverages are being provided for this event.
Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to expand your network and have a blast at the same time. RSVP now to save your spot!
Date: January 27, 2026
Time: 5 pm - 7 pm
Location
The Commons at Granite City, 705 Gold Lake Dr Ste 150, Folsom
Cost: $0 - $10
Register: 3Common
About Justin Fortier
Justin Fortier is a tech entrepreneur and founder of multiple successful companies here in California. As CEO/CTO of FYC Labs, he successfully led the company to acquisition in 2020.
The boutique design agency grew internationally, capturing clients such as Remax, National University, Budweiser, and Pepsi Co., and has been recognized on several top lists for Web Design and Development.
Justin has been named as finalist for CEO of the year twice by the San Diego Business Journal and was recognized as one of the Top 50 Most Influential Business Leaders in San Diego by San Diego Daily Transcript. In addition, he holds top-level Technical/Business advisory positions at 11.2 Ventures, Blush Design Inc, Edvo, Aura Finance, and Intraratio Corp. He has held technical executive roles for Blockchain Innovators – XYO Network, Ecommerce Game Changer – For Days, and Manufacturing Technology SaaS – Intraratio Corp.
Justin volunteers his time helping other entrepreneurs and small business owners through various organizations such as San Diego Small Business Advisory Board, Sierra College, Folsom Chamber of Commerce and the Granite City Foundation.
Justin is a Father of two and enjoys fishing, hiking, and playing hockey.
Veteran Entrepreneur Tribe of Sacramento - Fireside Chat with Max Bloom
VETS, in conjunction with Startup Folsom, is hosting The Art of Prompt Engineering—a hands-on workshop designed for small business owners.
Join Us for the Veteran Entrepreneur Tribe of Sacramento Event!
Connect with veteran entrepreneurs and supporters at our first networking event! Whether you’re a veteran, military spouse, or an ally, this is your chance to build relationships, swap stories, and grow your business alongside people who get it. Join a supportive community built on leadership, resilience, and innovation. Everyone is welcome to network and collaborate.
Featured Workshop: The Art of Prompt Engineering
This month’s session is led by our own Rich Foreman and is designed for small business owners who want to use AI effectively (without the hype). Rich will cover:
A practical overview of artificial intelligence
Key risks and common pitfalls when using AI
A simple framework for writing clear, consistent prompts that get better results
Come for the connections—leave with new contacts and a skill you’ll use the next day.
About Veteran Entrepreneur Tribe of Sacramento
The Veteran Entrepreneur Tribe of Sacramento is dedicated to empowering military veterans through entrepreneurship, providing them with the resources, mentorship, and community support needed to launch and grow successful businesses. For more information, visit https://veteranentrepreneurtribe.com/
Date: February 19, 2026
Time: 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Location: Granite City Workspaces, 705 Gold Lake Drive, #Ste 250 Folsom, CA 95630
Cost: Free
Registration: Eventbrite
Folsom AI Meet Up featuring Patent Attorney Ken Murray
Startup Grind Sacramento, in collaboration with Startup Folsom and Granite City Coworking, invites you to our recurring AI Meetup. Swing by Granite City Coworking for a relaxed evening featuring pizza and informal chats about all facets of Artificial Intelligence.
This month we’re featuring patent attorney Ken Murray, who’ll present “Patent Law 101: What Startups Should Know.” He’ll break down the basics of IP, cover what startups can and can’t patent, and walk through how AI-related projects can be protected. No legal fluff, just the stuff founders actually need.
Date: January 6, 2026
Time: 6 - 8 pm
Cost: $5
Register: Eventbrite
Location: Granite City Coworking, 705 Gold Lake Dr Ste 250
About Ken Murray
Leveraging a multi-faceted career in engineering, Ken Murray began his legal career as principal patent analyst for the University of California, Davis. He founded Murray Tech Law, located in the heart of the dynamic and progressive city of Davis, California, just a few blocks from the highly-respected University of California, Davis. Over the past 14 years, Ken has created an innovative law and technology intellectual property practice. During that time, he formed, invested in, and worked with several high-tech companies involved in energy, software, medical devices, advanced telecommunications, and healthcare software.
Ken is a registered patent attorney licensed to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, as well as a member of the California State Bar. He graduated cum laude from the University of South Carolina-Columbia and received his law degree from the University of California, Davis.
Oh, yes – Ken is also an accomplished heavy crane and equipment operator.
Sacramento Region Startup Holiday Party
Get into the holiday spirit and jingle all the way to our festive Holiday Meetup on December 2nd at 5:00 PM! This magical evening is the perfect way to wrap up the year, filled with cheer and inspiration - a collaborative event hosted by StartupSac, CleanStart, Urban Technology Lab, The Urban Hive, Carlsen Center, Startup Folsom, Startup Grind, MedStart, 1 million Cups, The Veteran Entrepreneur Tribe, Growth Factory, Sacramento Entrepreneurship Academy and AgStart
We will be at the beautiful Urban Hive who is supporting us by volunteering their venue.
Date: Tuesday, December 9, 2025
Time: 5 pm - 8 pm
Location: The Urban Hive, 730 I St, Sacramento, CA 95814, USA
Cost: $15
Register: Luma
Startup Pitch Workshop
Folsom Startup and StartupSac are proud to present a monthly pitch workshop. Present your 5-minute startup pitch and receive valuable feedback from our experienced pitch coaches. If your pitch impresses the judges, you will be invited to present to local angel investors.
To take part in the workshop, please register here. Due to limited availability, we can only accommodate 2 pitches per workshop. If you are selected to participate, you will be notified via email. If you don't make the cut this month, don't worry - simply reapply for the next workshop, as we host them monthly. Additional resources for crafting a startup pitch can be found here
If you'd just like to observe the workshop, you can register to be an audience member here.
Date: Wednesday, November 12, 2025
Time: 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Location: Virtual
Cost: Free
Register to observe only: 3 Common
To apply to present: Google Forms
Granite City AI Workshops & Happy Hour
Join us Thursday, November 6, 2:00–6:00 PM at Granite City Workspaces (The Nook & Event Center) for an afternoon of practical AI learning, local business celebration, and easy networking. Expect two hands-on AI sessions for small businesses and creators, three Chamber ribbon cuttings (Rancho Cordova, Roseville, and El Dorado Hills), and a tasting-style happy hour with local vendors—all under one roof in Folsom’s Historic District. Bring your curiosity, your questions, and maybe your next collaborator. It’s not another fluffy “future of work” talk—this one gets tactical, then toasts to new beginnings.
Agenda
November 6
14:45 - 15:30
AI Without The Eye Roll w/ Sedale Turbovsky
If you’ve ever rolled your eyes at another AI webinar, this one’s for you. This is about getting your time back by systemizing your business. Designed for business owners who are curious but skeptical, it focuses on practical tools that make daily work easier. Attendees will learn how to use AI for everyday tasks like writing content, organizing communication, and streamlining operations. The goal: save time, simplify workflows, and make more money.
15:45 - 16:30
AI for Growth. Marketing That Moves People w/ Justin Fortier
This one’s all about using AI to actually grow your business — not just make things faster. We’ll talk about how to use AI to understand your audience, plan smarter marketing, and keep your brand voice sounding like you. You’ll see how small businesses are using tools like ChatGPT, Canva, and a few underrated apps to create content, analyze what’s working, and stay consistent online without feeling robotic.
16:30 - 18:00
The Happiest Happy Hour!
The happiest happy hour featuring local partners and “build-your-own” food and drink experiences from Froztique, Caprice Desserts, Stellar Ridge Vineyard, Sactown Charcuterie, Gaslight Bar, The Palm Tree Pop, The Folsom Café, and 4 Heroes Grill.
Date: November 6, 2025
Time: 2 pm - 6 pm
Cost: Free
Register: Eventbrite
Location: The Nook at Granite City, 705 Gold Lake Drive, #ste 390b Folsom, CA 95630