Events
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.
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
#AICoding #SoftwareDevelopment #AIEngineering #AICommunity #Builders #EvolutionLabs #AISDLC
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
#AICoding #SoftwareDevelopment #AIEngineering #AICommunity #Builders #EvolutionLabs #AISDLC
MedStart CEO Roundtable Featuring Patrick Cormier
MedStart CEO Roundtable Featuring Patrick Cormier
This month's featured executive is Patrick Cormier who was the CFO for Infinant Health where he raised over $150 million.
What to expect:
Opening framing (10 min)
Patrick's Story (30 min)
Facilitated roundtable (30 min): your challenges, peer counsel, shared solutions
Who this is for:
This forum is designed for CEOs, Founders, and C-level leaders at medical and life science startups. If you're building, hiring, raising, or navigating clinical and regulatory hurdles, you'll get the most from this room.
Date: Wednesday, September 23
Time: 6–8 PM PDT
Where: Granite City Workspace, 705 Gold Lake Dr Ste 250, Folsom, CA 95630
Cost: Free
Register: Eventbrite
Capacity: 12–16 seats
Chatham House Rule: Speak freely. What's shared stays in the room.
Food and beverages provided.
About Patrick Cormier
Patrick is a finance and accounting executive with over 15 years of experience spanning public accounting, corporate finance, and CFO-level leadership in the life sciences and biotechnology sectors. Patrick began his career at Deloitte, where he led engagements across biotechnology, media, and clean energy industries, including oversight of publicly traded company audits and multiple transactions. He currently serves as CFO of Infinant Health, a clinical-stage company, CFO of Renosome Bio, and CFO at Immunogenik, supporting capital raises and long-term financial modeling at these organizations. He is also the founder of Cormier Strategic Finance, a fractional CFO practice focused on the life sciences and biotech sector. He holds a bachelor's in accounting from CSU, Sacramento, and an MBA from the University of California, Berkeley, Haas School of Business, and is a licensed Certified Public Accountant.
AI for Business Workshop: Who Owns What AI Creates?
AI for Business Workshop: Who Owns What AI Creates?
Learn how to protect your IP, content, data, and business when using AI tools like ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, and more.
Your employees are using ChatGPT. Your marketing team is creating images with AI. Someone may be using AI to write code, develop proposals, summarize documents, or brainstorm your next product.
But who owns what AI creates?
As artificial intelligence becomes part of everyday business, it is creating a new set of questions around intellectual property, copyright, confidential information, ownership, and risk.
Join us for a practical AI for Business Workshop with attorney Anders Bostrom, Senior Associate at Feldesman LLP, as we explore what business owners and entrepreneurs should know about intellectual property in the age of generative AI.
What We'll Discuss
We'll explore questions such as:
Who owns content created using AI?
Can AI-generated content be copyrighted?
What happens when employees put confidential company information into ChatGPT or other AI platforms?
Can you use AI-generated images, text, or code commercially?
What are the risks of AI inadvertently reproducing someone else's intellectual property?
What should businesses consider when using AI-generated work from employees, contractors, or vendors?
What should you look for in AI-related contracts and terms of service?
What policies should businesses consider putting in place for employee AI use?
The goal isn't to scare businesses away from using AI. It's to help you understand the potential legal issues so you can use these tools more intelligently and protect what you've built.
Agenda
6:00 – 6:30 PM — Networking, food, and beverages
6:30 – 7:30 PM — Presentation
7:30 – 8:00 PM — Audience Q&A
Who Should Attend?
This workshop is designed for:
Business owners
Entrepreneurs and startup founders
Executives and managers
Marketing professionals
Consultants and agencies
Anyone using generative AI as part of their business
If you're already using ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, Midjourney, Copilot, or other AI tools in your business, this workshop will help you better understand where the legal lines may be.
Bring your questions. AI is moving quickly, and most company policies and business practices haven't caught up yet.
The free monthly AI for Business series is supported by the City of Roseville. Food and beverages are provided.
Date: Wednesday, October 7, 2026
Time: 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Location: Roseville Venture Lab, 316 Vernon Street, Ste #110
Cost: Free
Registration: Eventbrite
The Panelists
About Anders L. Bostrom
Anders L. Bostrom is a Senior Associate with Feldesman LLP. His practice focuses on advising organizations on complex transactions, regulatory compliance, corporate governance, operational matters, and business agreements.
Anders works with healthcare providers, physician groups, management services organizations, health systems, healthcare technology companies, private equity sponsors, and investors. He has been recognized as a Northern California Rising Star by Super Lawyers from 2023 through 2026 and was named to The Best Lawyers in America: Ones to Watch 2026 for Corporate Governance and Compliance Law and Corporate Law.
Thank You to Our Sponsor!
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.
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 (use your .edu email to register)
Register: EventMobi
AI For Marketing Workshop
AI For Marketing Workshop
Storyline Media CEO Jesse Delgado shares practical best practices for using AI to improve your marketing.
Storyline Media CEO Jesse Delgado will lead a practical workshop on how businesses can use AI to improve their marketing, sharing best practices, real-world strategies, and tools you can put to work right away.
The monthly AI for Business series is supported by the City of Rancho Cordova and Frequency Coworking
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, October 14, 2026
Time: 6:00–8:00 PM
Location: Frequency Coworking, 3249 Quality Drive, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670
Cost: $5
Register: Eventbrite
About Jesse Delgado
Jesse Delgado is the founder of Storyline Media Group, a Sacramento-based video marketing agency, and a leader in Sacramento’s growing AI community. He helps businesses and founders combine storytelling, content, and AI to improve their marketing and turn ideas into measurable results.
Thank you to our sponsors!
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.
AI for Business Panel Discussion: How Real Business Owners Use AI
AI for Business Panel Discussion: How Real Business Owners Use AI
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. 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. Food and beverage will be provided. Our panelist include Michelle De La Campa Martinez, Jenifer Namestka, and Dr. Jordan Plews.
The monthly AI for Business series is supported by the City of Rancho Cordova and Frequency Coworking
Agenda
6:00–6:30 PM — Networking (food + beverages)
6:30 –7:30 PM — Panel discussion
7:30–8:00 PM — Audience Q&A +
Who should attend
Business owners, operators, team leads, consultants, and anyone who wants practical ways to use AI for real work—no coding required.
Date: Wednesday, September 9, 2026
Time: 6:30–8:30 PM
Location: Frequency Coworking, 3249 Quality Drive, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670
Cost: $5
Register: Eventbrite
About Michelle De La Campa Martinez
Michelle is the owner of the Ludlow Cleaning Company which Premium cleaning services for businesses and homes across the El Dorado Hills, Folsom, and Sacramento area.
About Jenifer Namestka
With over 26 years of experience across the U.S., Canada, Mexico, United Kingdom, Ireland, Uganda, Kenya, and South Africa, Ms. Namestka founded Avo Solutions on the belief that change should move people, not just metrics. She specializes in organizational change management that bridges the gap between where organizations are and where they're heading, having guided hundreds of clients across government, non-profit, and Fortune 100 companies through meaningful transformation. Her approach combines proven frameworks for readiness assessment and adoption tracking with the hard conversations that unlock trust, clarity, and momentum. She develops change management programs that help leaders see clearly, respond wisely, and move forward with purpose. She believes that when you measure what matters, momentum follows. Ms. Namestka holds a Master of Education in eLearning and Bachelor of Arts, with certifications as a Certified Change Management Practitioner, Certified Return on Investment Professional, and Instructional Systems Designer.
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.
Thank you to our sponsors!
2026 Pitch Elk Grove Finals
2026 Pitch Elk Grove Finals
Join us as Northern California’s most promising startups compete live on stage for their share of $20,000 in prize money!
Pitch Elk Grove is Northern California’s premier startup pitch competition, a high-energy celebration of innovation, entrepreneurship, and regional economic development.
Now celebrating its fifth year, Pitch Elk Grove was launched in 2022 by Invest Elk Grove, the City of Elk Grove's Office of Economic Development, in collaboration with StartupSac, to showcase the region's most promising startups and highlight Greater Sacramento as a growing hub for innovation and entrepreneurship.
But it is more than just a pitch event. It is also an opportunity to showcase Elk Grove's unique identity. From locally crafted beer and wine to catering from some of our favorite restaurants, Pitch Elk Grove proudly highlights the businesses that make our city special.
Whether you're a founder, investor, or community supporter, this is your chance to experience the energy of our growing startup ecosystem and discover the local flavors, talent, and innovation that make Elk Grove a vibrant place to live and do business.
On September 3, up to eight standout startups will take the stage to pitch their ventures live to a panel of expert judges and an audience of founders, investors, and community leaders. Whether you're an entrepreneur, an innovation enthusiast, or simply curious about what's next, you'll want to be in the room.
Prize Money
First Place: $10,000
Second Place: $5,000
Third Place: $2,500
Best Elk Grove Startup: $2,500
Join us as we celebrate the founders, innovators, and big ideas shaping the future of our region's startup ecosystem.
Meet the Finalists
BillDecoder (Lodi) – AI technology that helps patients identify medical billing errors and generate dispute letters.
Core Envision Inc. (Folsom) – AI-powered framing layout technology designed to improve construction efficiency.
First Bite (Davis) – A medical device that securely holds breathing tubes for neonatal and pediatric ICU patients.
GuLP AAC (Sacramento) – A communication platform designed for nonspeaking children.
Insta Brow (Elk Grove) – A patent-pending beauty product that simplifies eyebrow application for several days.
Krokos Bio (Davis) – Plant cell culture technology producing high-value botanicals such as saffron.
Lilypay (Lincoln) – A financing platform helping families manage funeral expenses.
Pheronym, Inc. (Woodland) – Sustainable agricultural technology using pheromones to control soil pests.
Purple Door Finders (Sacramento) – A platform helping families compare senior living and care options.
Yeast Bay Bio (Davis) – Developing yeast-based alternatives to traditional household insecticides.
Meet the Judges
Rick Spencer, Growth Factory Ventures
Lokesh Sikaria, Moneta Ventures
George Parrish, Stockton Entrepreneur Lab and Bay Angels
David Lopez, Sacramento Angels
Michelle Hallsten, Sacramento Angels and Greenberg Traurig
Date: Sept. 3
Time: 4:30 - 8 pm
Location: 8230 Civic Center Dr #100, Elk Grove, CA 95757, USA
Cost: Free
Register: 3Common
AI for Business Panel: Starting Your AI Startup
AI for Business Panel: Starting Your AI Startup
AI startups are no longer just being built by venture-backed teams in Silicon Valley. Founders, consultants, small business owners, and local builders are now using AI tools to test ideas, prototype products, automate services, and launch new companies faster than ever.
Join us at Roseville Venture Lab for a practical panel discussion on Starting Your AI Startup, part of the AI for Business series. This session will feature entrepreneurs and business leaders discussing how founders can identify real AI opportunities, validate ideas, build early prototypes, and avoid common mistakes when launching an AI-enabled business. The panelist include Strived Co-founder, Shweta Gandhi, Humaxa Co-founder Carolyn Peer, and Core Envision Founder Mauro Sica.
The free monthly AI for Business series is supported by the City of Roseville. Food and beverages are provided.
Agenda
6:00 – 6:30 PM — Networking, food, and beverages
6:30 – 7:30 PM — Panel discussion
7:30 – 8:00 PM — Audience Q&A + startup idea wrap-up
Date: Wednesday, September 2, 2026
Time: 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Location: Roseville Venture Lab, 316 Vernon Street, Ste #110
Cost: Free
Registration: Eventbrite
The Panelists
About Shweta Gandhi
Shweta Gandhi is currently the CEO and co-founder of Strived; an academic data platform aiming to augment teacher decision making through the use of AI and is a serial entrepreneur. Previously, she co-founded and led Jetpacked, an edtech data aggregation platform designed to boost edtech product usage fidelity and efficacy for students, teachers, and parents.
Additionally, Shweta managed teams of over 100 people at AT&T, a Fortune 10 company, and founded a nonprofit in India that provided assessment-based scholarships to high-school students.
About Carolyn Peer
Carolyn Peer (CEO and Cofounder of Humaxa) is an award-winning Human Capital Management industry leader with an MA in Instructional Technology and a BA in Cognitive Neuroscience. Carolyn started her career as the Lead Instructional Designer at an early stage startup called ProBusiness. ProBusiness was acquired by ADP in 2003. Carolyn left ADP in 2017 to join forces with two associates and to found Humaxa, a Generative AI platform that that pulls data from internal and external sources and provides immediate insights.
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.
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.
5th Annual iCAMP26 Innovation Summit for Food Biomanufacturing
iCAMP (Integrative Center for Alternative Meat & Protein)
iCAMP26 brings together researchers, students, startups, manufacturers, investors, policymakers, economic development organizations, incubators, and food industry leaders to accelerate the future of food through collaboration, innovation, and commercialization.
Over two days, attendees will experience:
Inspiring keynote speakers and fireside conversations
Scientific panel discussions
Interactive roundtable discussions
Student Flash Talks and Poster Competition
Food Innovation Showcase
Industry exhibits
Networking with leaders from across California's food innovation ecosystem
Exclusive tours of regional innovation facilities
Featured topics include:
Food biomanufacturing and manufacturing scale-up
Plant-based, fermentation, and cultivated food technologies
AI-enabled food innovation
Functional ingredients and future foods
Commercialization and technology transfer
Entrepreneurship and investment
Workforce development
Food security and the future bioeconomy
Whether you are conducting research, building a startup, commercializing new technologies, seeking investment, expanding manufacturing capacity, or looking to connect with California's rapidly growing food and ag biomanufacturing ecosystem, iCAMP26 offers a unique opportunity to engage with the people and organizations shaping the future of food.
Summit Dates
September 1, 2026 | 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
September 2, 2026 | 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Location
UC Davis ARC Conference Center
760 Orchard Road
Davis, CA 95616
Register
https://na.eventscloud.com/ereg/newreg.php?eventid=883778&
Registration Deadline
August 25, 2026
Registration is free for academic faculty, staff, and students, and registration is required to attend.
frAIdays — AI in Practice
frAIdays — AI in Practice
Vol. 04 — August 2026. Theme: AI in Practice.
Lunch to start, then three simultaneous tracks at different levels:
Spark — just getting started with AI
Flame — using AI weekly, going deeper
Forge — building professionally, agentic workflows and production deployments
Lunch is available for purchase: $15 if reserved ahead of time, $20 on-site.
705 Gold Lake Dr, Suite 250, Folsom, CA 95630 — The Commons at Granite City Workspaces.
Presented by Granite City Workspaces, FollowThrough Works, and FYC Labs.
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, August 28
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
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.
Startup Happy Hour Comes to Elk Grove with IGH Naturals COO Rich Foreman
Startup Happy Hour Comes to Elk Grove with IGH Naturals COO Rich Foreman
Some of the most useful startup conversations don’t happen on a conference stage.
They happen over a drink, around a table, when one founder asks another founder, “How did you actually deal with this?”
That’s the idea behind Startup Happy Hour, coming to Elk Grove on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, from 5:00–7:00 PM at EBISU Sushi. The monthly gathering brings together Sacramento-area founders, entrepreneurs, innovators, and creators for an informal evening of conversation and connections.
This month’s featured AMA guest will be Rich Foreman, COO of IGH Naturals, the company behind HuMOLYTE and the winner of last year’s Pitch Elk Grove competition.
More Than a Startup Success Story
IGH Naturals has been building a healthcare startup in one of the toughest industries for entrepreneurs: life sciences.
Unlike many software startups, medical and healthcare companies often have to navigate clinical research, regulatory questions, intellectual property, manufacturing, fundraising, and commercialization—sometimes all at the same time.
At Startup Happy Hour, attendees will have an opportunity to ask Foreman about what that journey actually looks like.
Before joining IGH Naturals, Foreman was the founding CTO of Cordico, which was later acquired by Lexipol. He is also the Founding Director of Startup Grind Sacramento and has been active in building the Sacramento region’s startup ecosystem.
Rather than a formal presentation, the evening will feature an Ask Me Anything-style conversation, giving founders an opportunity to dig into the questions that matter to them.
Come for the AMA. Stay for the Community.
The bigger reason to attend may be the people sitting next to you.
Sacramento’s startup ecosystem continues to grow because founders are willing to share introductions, lessons, resources, and occasionally the mistakes they wish somebody had warned them about.
Startup Happy Hour is specifically designed to create those connections.
The event is organized by StartupSac and the Carlsen Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship and sponsored by Invest Elk Grove. Appetizers will also be provided.
Date: Tuesday, August 25, 2026
Time: 5:00–7:00 PM
Location: EBISU Sushi, 2513 W Taron Ct., Elk Grove, CA
Cost: $11.45
Register: 3Common
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
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 of LeaseBase. 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.
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
Thank you to our sponsors!
Design Like a Pro (w/ The AI Collective)
Design Like a Pro (w/ The AI Collective)
Most AI events show you what’s possible. This masterclass is designed to help you actually build.
Join us for a hands-on, four-hour workshop where you’ll learn the fundamentals of great design while creating real brand assets with AI. Whether you’re a business owner, marketer, creator, designer, or simply curious about AI, you’ll leave with practical skills you can use immediately.
Throughout the evening you’ll alternate between short, focused lessons and guided build sessions. Bring your laptop and build in the AI tools you already use...ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, Cursor, Lovable, Replit, or any platform you’re comfortable with.
By the end of the night, you’ll walk away with:
A professionally designed brand asset
Powerful design skills for continued building
A premium AI-built website
Design principles that will improve everything you create going forward
This isn’t a meetup. It’s a masterclass. Less watching. More building.
What to bring: A laptop, your favorite AI tools, and a willingness to create.
As always, food and drink, engaging conversation, and incredible company will all be provided!
Please be advised: Unfortunately, space is very limited at these community events and we can not always accept everyone we would like to. If you are not accepted to this event, please keep applying! We appreciate your application tremendously and we are looking forward to seeing you at a future event very soon!
The AI Collectiveis a global non-profit building the human layer for the AI era. We unite 200,000+ leaders, builders, and stakeholders across 100+ forums worldwide to democratize the frontier, build trust, and coordinate how society navigates the rapid acceleration of technological progress.
All attendees and organizers at events affiliated with The AI Collective agree to our privacy policy and are subject to our code of conduct.
Date: August 13
Time: 5:30 pm - 9 pm
Cost: Free
Location: Rancho Cordova (Register to see address)
Register: Luma
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
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
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