Events

Lean Startup Bootcamp
Lean Startup Bootcamp
Have an idea for a startup? Ready to change the world? Want to be your own boss some day?
Be sure to join us for the Lean Startup Bootcamp and learn how to turn your idea into reality as well as how you can pitch your business or nonprofit to raise capital.
In this two-day bootcamp, we will cover the foundational tools and mindsets you will need to get your idea off the ground in the leanest fashion. Some of the tools and mindsets we will cover are the Lean Canvas, Value Proposition Canvas, Design Thinking and Testing Business Ideas.
In addition to learning and making your idea a reality you will meet other passionate individuals and find a community of problem solvers just like you.
Food will be served at each of the sessions.
Day 1: Learn Proven Startup & Innovation Tools
Take a dive into the various tools that will help you to get your idea out of your head and onto paper. We will then help you in testing your assumptions and relating your idea to how it serves your customers.
Tools and Mindsets: Lean Canvas, Value Proposition Canvas, Design Thinking and Testing Business Ideas
Day 2: From Idea to Reality | Investor Mindset
This day is all about helping you understand the mindset of the investor and what information you need to prepare so that you can get funding and resources to grow. We invite mentors from the Sacramento regional ecosystem, including real investors, to share insights on what makes a compelling pitch.
If any special accommodations are needed please let us know at least two weeks in advance to secure the needed accommodations.
Dates and Times:
June 13, 2025 (5 to 8 pm)
June 14, 2025 (10 am to 2 om)
Location: Carlsen Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, 6000 Jed Smith Dr Library 1520, Sacramento, CA 95819
Cost: Free
Register: 3Common

Folsom AI Meet Up featuring aurus.ai Founder Uday Ayyagari
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 aurus.aI Founder Uday Ayyagari which develops AI solutions for the Enterprise.
Date: Tuesday, July 8, 2025
Time: 6 - 8 pm
Location: Granite City Workspaces, 705 Gold Lake Dr Ste 250, Folsom, CA 95630
Cost: $ 5
Register: Startup Grind

MedStart: Cracking the Code - How to Get Insurers to Pay for Innovation
This month, we’re thrilled to host Reneta Jenik, CEO of Foodom, who cracked a challenge many startups face: getting insurance companies to cover a non-traditional intervention.Her company offers medically tailored meals and private cooking lessons—prepared by local chefs right in patients’ homes—and she’s figured out how to make it reimbursable.
Join us to hear Reneta’s founder story, learn how food is becoming medicine (and a reimbursable one at that), and connect with fellow innovators in our region’s growing health tech community.
Date: July 16, 2025
Time: 6 pm - 8 pm
Where: Granite City Coworking, 705 Gold Lake Dr Ste 250, Folsom, CA 95630
Cost: $5
Register: Eventbrite
About Reneta Jenik
Reneta Jenik is the founder and CEO of Foodom, a health-focused startup transforming home kitchens into centers of healing. Foodom connects families with local chefs who prepare wholesome, personalized, in-home meals and cooking lessons—including medically tailored meals now covered by Anthem Medi-Cal. With referrals from Anthem, Sutter Health and FQHCs, and active billing underway, Reneta is scaling a proven model to make “food as medicine” a reality.
A former tech executive at Intel, Western Digital, and SanDisk, Reneta brings deep experience in AI/ML and billion-dollar business growth. She now blends her background in technology with a passion for preventive healthcare, food equity, and conscious leadership—driven by her own journey managing PCOS and insulin resistance through nutrition.

Folsom AI Meet Up: Vibe Coding Workshop
Startup Grind Sacramento, in collaboration with 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 session is all about Vibe Coding — the art of building momentum through speed, simplicity, and shared energy.
You’ll break into teams, come up with a startup idea, and use tools like ChatGPT and Cursor to design, write, and ship a live waitlist website — all in one night. Whether you're a seasoned dev or brand new to tech, you'll learn how to move fast, validate ideas, and launch something real.
What You’ll Do:
Form a team and brainstorm a startup concept
Use ChatGPT and Cursor to build a one-page waitlist site
Launch it live and start collecting signups
Get feedback, test ideas, and vibe with other builders
Bonus:
Get a free Cursor rules file that 10x’s your AI agent’s accuracy and output
Walk away with a proven step-by-step workflow to turn any idea into a working MVP using ChatGPT + Cursor
This is a high-energy, no-fluff workshop where the goal is shipping, not just learning. Bring your laptop, your ideas, and your appetite — for pizza and progress.
Date: June 10, 2025
Time: 6 - 8 pm
Cost: $5
Register: Startup Grind Sacramento
Location: Granite City Coworking, 705 Gold Lake Dr Ste 250

Creative Leadership Series: AMA with RxGuardian's CEO Nathan Langley
Creative Leadership Series: AMA with RxGuardian's CEO Nathan Langley
Join Sactown Makers for an evening of connection and insight at our Creative Leadership AMA series. On May 30, from 6pm to 8pm, we welcome Nathan Langley, Co-founder and CEO of RxGuardian, for an inspiring conversation about entrepreneurship, leadership, and building products that make a difference.
The evening will begin with networking and refreshments from 6pm to 6:45pm. At 6:45pm, Nathan will share his journey in an AMA (Ask Me Anything) session. Following a moderated discussion, attendees will have the opportunity to ask their own questions. We will wrap up the evening with more networking until 8pm. Drinks and appetizers will be provided.
Whether you are building your own business, exploring entrepreneurship, or simply curious about how founders create solutions for real-world problems, this event will offer valuable insights and connections.
What You Can Expect to Learn
How Nathan built a purpose-driven company that creates real-world impact
The challenges and opportunities of entrepreneurship in the creative economy
Lessons learned from securing partnerships with retail, nonprofit, and government sectors
Strategies for scaling a product that addresses critical social issues
Tips for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to turn an idea into a business
Date: May 30
Time: 6 pm - 8 pm
Cost: Free
Register: Eventbrite

FedCon
FedCon
What is FedCon?
FedCon is Clutch’s flagship one-day conference, focused on the full lifecycle of federal contracting—from securing the contract to delivering results. It’s a practical, real-world event designed for professionals who want more than theory. You’ll hear straight from industry leaders who’ve built, managed, and scaled successful federal projects.
Date and Location
Date: Wednesday, May 28, 2025
Time: 8:15 AM to 4:00 PM
Happy Hour: 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Location: Frequency Coworking & Events
3249 Quality Drive, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670Register: Rsvpify
Who Should Attend
Business owners and entrepreneurs pursuing federal contracts
Federal consultants and contractors focused on project delivery
Solution providers and agencies working in or with the public sector
Whether you're new to government work or scaling your federal presence, FedCon offers insights and relationships that matter.
What to Expect
Full-Lifecycle Strategies
Learn how to navigate the entire contracting process—from proposal to execution—with a clear, actionable framework.Real-World Insights
Hear from professionals with hands-on experience. Panels and sessions are built around honest conversations and practical examples.Community and Networking
Connect with peers, experts, and partners who share your goals and challenges in the federal space.
Happy Hour and Live Music
Following the day’s programming, enjoy a hosted Happy Hour with live entertainment from the Kelly Twins Dueling Pianos. It’s a chance to unwind, network, and continue the conversation in a more relaxed setting.
Tickets
Full-Day Access (including Happy Hour): $120
Happy Hour Only: Afternoon ticket option available
Hosted By
Clutch – A women-owned, people-first consultancy focused on helping teams deliver on complex public sector challenges.

Beer & Geeks
Beer and Geeks is a casual networking event . If you love startups or have a startup idea, then come mingle with like minded people. Make a connection and this could be the seeds for the next big thing. This is a free event, just buy your own drink. So stop by after work, have a drink, meet some new people, and talk about the next big idea.
This month we’re partnering with StartupSac with their Startup Happy Hour.
Join us for an engaging evening at Startup Happy Hour! This mixer offers a fantastic chance for both seasoned entrepreneurs and newcomers to network and relax with peers in the startup ecosystem.
During the event, you’ll connect with fellow innovators, exchange ideas, and you might even meet your next business partner. Enjoy a drink, savor delicious appetizers, and share stories with other passionate startup enthusiasts. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to expand your network.
AMA: Our Ask Me Anything Guest is Samuel Taylor Co Founder and CEO of Core Impact
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!
Date: Tuesday, May 27, 2025
Time: 5 pm - 7 pm
Location: Ever After Wine Bar, 9639 E Stockton Blvd ,
Elk Grove, CA 95624
Cost: $10
Register: 3 Common

MedStart Event featuring ARIZ Precision Medicine Co-Founder Dr. Brad Niles
This month, we’re excited to welcome ARIZ Precision Medicine Founder and CEO, Brad Niles.
ARIZ Precision Medicine is pre-clinical stage company aiming to selectively target and destroy early-stage drivers of cancer, such as the deregulated PRDM genes and proteins that were previously deemed “undruggable”. ARIZ set out to prove that cancer cells with PRDM abnormalities could be individually targeted and destroyed without harming normal cells by utilizing knowledge of the PRDM gene family, proprietary siRNA constructs and innovative drug delivery nanotechnologies to target these cancer cells. Proof of principle studies confirmed that this approach selectively killed multiple types of cancer cells (breast, colon, lung, myeloma, etc.) thus ARIZ is continuing in the development of new drug candidates for cancer by pushing these products to testing in animal models of cancer. This will give ARIZ compelling data and intellectual property to share with pharmaceutical companies and, thus, enter into strategic partnerships to take our products to the clinic and then to market. Ultimately, through these efforts, ARIZ intends to cure cancers in a way that preserves a patient’s quality of life and avoids the harmful and adverse effects of current therapies. ARIZ is located in Davis, California and benefits from the combined knowledge of a board of experts in PRDM genes, drug delivery and drug development.
This event will be held at MedStart's new home at Connect Labs in Aggie Square.
Date: May 22, 2025
Time: 6 pm - 8 pm
Cost: $5
Register: Startup Grind
Location: Connect Labs, 4480 2nd Ave #2300, 4480 2nd Avenue, Sacramento, 95817
About Brad Niles
Brad Niles, Ph.D. serves as the CEO for ARIZ Precision Medicine. He received his Ph.D. from UC Davis, with a Designated Emphasis in Biotechnology and advanced training in Business Development. He has 15 years of experience in cancer research, and has published more than a dozen scientific papers, and was an invited speaker to numerous scientific conferences. In addition, he has managed product development projects for two different biotech startups, and is an inventor on numerous RNA-therapeutic patent applications. At ARIZ he has previously served as COO and VP of Research and Development for over 4 years.

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.
The Pitch Coaches
About Josh David Miller
I’m JDM, aka Josh David Miller, an entrepreneur, speaker, startup advisor, and wearer of colourful shoes, based in Sacramento, CA. I’m the founder of The Right Box, where we use design thinking to help venture-backed startups find product-market fit.
They call me the Shredder of Business Models.
About Brooke Borseth
Brooke Borseth is a Senior Associate at Moneta Ventures. She has a BS from Economics & Data Analytics from Santa Clara University.
Date: Thursday, May 22, 2025
Time: 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Location: Virtual
Cost: Free
Register to observe only: 3 Common
To apply to present: Google Forms

Veteran Entrepreneur Tribe of Sacramento- Featuring Fortuna CEO Jack Smith
Connect with veteran entrepreneurs and supporters at our networking event! Whether you're a veteran, military spouse, or an ally, this is your chance to build relationships, share experiences, and grow your business. Join a supportive community that values leadership, resilience, and innovation. Everyone is welcome to network and collaborate.
This month, we're featuring Fortuna CEO Jack Smith. Fortuna helps businesses grow by providing expert staffing, IT services, and contact center solutions with a people-first approach.
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: May 15, 2025
Time: 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Location: Fortuna 5012 Luce Ave bldg 250h ste 102, 5012 Luce Avenue, McClellan Park, 95652
Cost: Free
Registration: Startup Grind

Veteran Entrepreneur Tribe Bonus Event: CAL FIRE Aviation Tour
On this day, we have a planned event featuring Fortuna BMC CEO Jack Smith. As an added bonus, we have an opportunity to tour CAL FIRE Aviation Assets. To attend this event, please register so that your name would be on the attendee list that we will provide to security.. Please bring your ID to present to security when you check in.
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: Thursday, May 15, 2025
Time: 3:30 pm - 5:30 pm
Location: 5411 Luce Ave, 5411 Luce Avenue, McClellan Park, 95652
Cost: Free
Register: Startup Grind

The Science of Startup Success: Avoid Wasting Time & Money
The Science of Startup Success: Avoid Wasting Time & Money
Join David Bland, internationally renowned lean startup expert, author, and advisor, for a game-changing session on how to validate your business idea before wasting time and money. With 70% of startups failing due to untested assumptions, David’s evidence-based approach has helped companies like Toyota, Adobe, HP, and GE de-risk innovation and accelerate growth.
Key Takeaways:
Avoid the Top 3 Reasons Startups Fail: Lack of customer demand, execution challenges, and weak pricing power.
Test Before You Invest: Discover proven methods to validate your business idea with real-world evidence.
Unlock Explosive Growth: Hear how one company 10X’d its customer base in a year—using simple, scalable tests.
Actionable Strategies: Walk away with frameworks to de-risk your launch and maximize success.
Why Attend?
Whether you're a first-time founder, corporate innovator, or seasoned entrepreneur, this talk will give you the same strategies David teaches at Stanford, Harvard, and Yale—so you can:
Eliminate guesswork and build what customers want
Save months (or years) by testing ideas fast & cheap
Turn uncertainty into confidence with data-driven decisions
Date: May 7
Time: 5:30 pm - 8 pm
Location: Carlsen Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, 6000 Jed Smith Dr Library 1520, Sacramento, CA 95819
Cost: $10.38
Register: Eventbrite
About the Speaker
David Bland is a globally recognized expert in lean startup methodologies, business model innovation, and evidence-based entrepreneurship. As the founder of Precoil and lead author of the international bestseller Testing Business Ideas (Wiley), he has equipped over 100,000 professionals and Fortune 500 companies with practical tools to de-risk ideas, accelerate growth, and avoid costly failures.

Folsom AI Meet Up: Generative AI and IP Discussion
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, Attorney, Gabriel García, will discuss IP issues and Generative AI.
Date: May 6, 2025
Time: 6 - 8 pm
Cost: $5
Register: Startup Grind Sacramento
Location: Granite City Coworking, 705 Gold Lake Dr Ste 250

Beer & Geeks
Beer and Geeks is a casual networking event . If you love startups or have a startup idea, then come mingle with like minded people. Make a connection and this could be the seeds for the next big thing. This is a free event, just buy your own drink. So stop by after work, have a drink, meet some new people, and talk about the next big idea.
This month we’re partnering with StartupSac with their Startup Happy Hour.
Join us for an engaging evening at Startup Happy Hour! This mixer offers a fantastic chance for both seasoned entrepreneurs and newcomers to network and relax with peers in the startup ecosystem.
During the event, you’ll connect with fellow innovators, exchange ideas, and you might even meet your next business partner. Enjoy a drink, savor delicious appetizers, and share stories with other passionate startup enthusiasts. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to expand your network.
AMA: Our Ask Me Anything Guest is J.P. Morgan CIO of Human Machine Collaboration Institute.
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!
Date: Tuesday, March 25, 2025
Time: 5 pm - 7 pm
Location: Burning Barrel Brewing Co.,11210 Sun Center Dr B, Rancho Cordova, CA
Cost: $11.41
Register: 3 Common

Veteran Entrepreneur Tribe of Sacramento- Featuring Red Line Safety CEO Scott Holman
Connect with veteran entrepreneurs and supporters at our networking event! Whether you're a veteran, military spouse, or an ally, this is your chance to build relationships, share experiences, and grow your business. Join a supportive community that values leadership, resilience, and innovation. Everyone is welcome to network and collaborate.
This month, we're featuring Red Line Safety CEO Scott Holman. Red Line Safety is an innovative technology startup specializing in next-generation solutions for firefighter safety and incident operations. The company is dedicated to advancing technologies that support firefighter health, wellness, and operational effectiveness. Red Line Safety serves a broad range of stakeholders, including firefighters, incident command teams, fire department administrators, medical researchers, and others involved in emergency response and public safety.
By delivering real-time, critical information during emergency incidents, Red Line Safety helps protect frontline personnel, improve health outcomes, and enhance decision-making in high-stakes environments. Its comprehensive platform enables incident operations to efficiently collect and track essential data related to firefighter performance and safety.
At the core of its offerings is IMSAFE—a first-of-its-kind, patent-pending technology that is simple, affordable, innovative, and demonstrably effective. Red Line Safety is committed to one mission above all: saving lives.
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: April17, 2025
Time: 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Location: InnoGrove, 8153 Elk Grove Boulevard, Elk Grove, 95758
Cost: Free
Registration: Startup Grind

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.
The Pitch Coaches
About Josh David Miller
I’m JDM, aka Josh David Miller, an entrepreneur, speaker, startup advisor, and wearer of colourful shoes, based in Sacramento, CA. I’m the founder of The Right Box, where we use design thinking to help venture-backed startups find product-market fit.
They call me the Shredder of Business Models.
About Brooke Borseth
is an Associate at Moneta Ventures. She has a BS from Economics & Data Analytics from Santa Clara University.
Date: Thursday, April 10, 2025
Time: 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Location: Virtual
Cost: Free
Register to observe only: 3 Common
To apply to present: Google Forms

Folsom AI Meet Up: Building an AI Powered Agent Workshop
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, our own Justin Mendez will be conducting a workshop on Building an AI Powered Agent.
Join us for a hands-on coding session where we’ll build an AI-powered Next.js app in real time using Cursor and Vibe Coding. This workshop is designed for developers of all levels who want to explore how AI can enhance their development workflow.
What You’ll Learn:
How to set up an AI agent in a Next.js app
Using Cursor for AI-assisted development
Exploring Vibe Coding for smoother coding workflows
Integrating AI APIs for interactive app functionality
Deploying and testing your AI-powered application
This is a fast-paced, interactive session where you’ll get to see the power of AI in action while coding alongside an experienced AI builder. Bring your laptop, curiosity, and questions!
Date: April 1, 2025
Time: 6 - 8 pm
Cost: $5
Register: Startup Grind Sacramento
Location: Granite City Coworking, 705 Gold Lake Dr Ste 250

Beer & Geeks
This month we’re partnering with StartupSac with their Startup Happy Hour.
Join us for an engaging evening at Startup Happy Hour! This mixer offers a fantastic chance for both seasoned entrepreneurs and newcomers to network and relax with peers in the startup ecosystem.
During the event, you’ll connect with fellow innovators, exchange ideas, and you might even meet your next business partner. Enjoy a drink, savor delicious appetizers, and share stories with other passionate startup enthusiasts. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to expand your network.
AMA: Our Ask Me Anything Guest is Daniel Kaye, Co-Founder and CEO of Bekonix.
Eats: Thanks to the generous sponsorship from Mark III and Choose Folsom beverages and delicious appetizers are being provided for this event.
Date: Tuesday, March 25, 2025
Time: 5 pm - 7 pm
Location: 110 Woodmere Rd Suite 100, Folsom, CA 95630
Cost: Free
Register: 3 Common

Veteran Entrepreneur Tribe of Sacramento- Featuring AllegiantVETS CEO Marcus Haney
Connect with veteran entrepreneurs and supporters at our networking event! Whether you're a veteran, military spouse, or an ally, this is your chance to build relationships, share experiences, and grow your business. Join a supportive community that values leadership, resilience, and innovation. Everyone is welcome to network and collaborate.
This month, we're featuring AllegiantVETS CEO Marcus Haney. Allegiant Giving is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping veterans succeed in the civilian workforce. With a team of experts and a network of supportive employers, it offers a comprehensive suite of services and resources to assist veterans in transitioning from military to civilian life. From career counseling and job placement assistance to on-the-job training and mentorship opportunities, Allegiant Giving is committed to empowering veterans to reach their full potential.
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: March 20, 2025
Time: 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Location: AllegiantVETS, 4465 Granite Dr STE 700, Rocklin, CA 95677
Cost: Free
Registration: Startup Grind

Startup Pitch Workshop
Folsom Startup and StartupSac, in collaboration with the, Startup Grind Sacramento, is 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.
The Pitch Coaches
About Josh David Miller
I’m JDM, aka Josh David Miller, an entrepreneur, speaker, startup advisor, and wearer of colourful shoes, based in Sacramento, CA. I’m the founder of The Right Box, where we use design thinking to help venture-backed startups find product-market fit.
They call me the Shredder of Business Models.
About Brooke VanSant
Brooke VanSant is an Associate at Moneta Ventures. She has a BS from Economics & Data Analytics from Santa Clara University.

CFO Basics for Startups
CFO Basics for Startups
This month, we’re excited to welcome Bob Wang who a seasoned Fractional CFO with deep expertise in scaling tech companies. as our guest speaker. Bob will lead a workshop on accounting basics for startups.
As CFO of Traction Guest, he helped grow ARR from $3M to $10M, leading to a $100M exit. He’s reviewed 800+ companies at a private equity firm, advising on what drives investor value.
At Tee Up Advisors, Bob partners with SaaS founders to optimize financial strategy, streamline operations, and prepare for scale. Known for his hands-on approach, he’s dedicated to unlocking growth and helping tech companies hit their next milestone.
Date: March 12, 2025
Time: 6 pm - 8 pm
Cost: $5
Register: Startup Grind
Location: Granite City Coworking, 705 Gold Lake Drive, Folsom, 95630

GovCon
Breaking into government consulting shouldn't feel impossible—especially for those who are in it for the right reasons. This conference is designed for entrepreneurs and innovators alike who believe that doing good work with good people can lead to amazing outcomes.
Join Clutch for an energizing, refreshing, hands-on experience where you'll get a crash course in government consulting, connect with like-minded changemakers, and discover partnerships that amplify impact. Whether you're just starting or looking to grow, this conference series will help you navigate the space, build meaningful relationships, and open doors to new opportunities.
Agenda
8:30-9am – Check-In, Coffee, Networking
9am-10:30am – Government Consulting 101, topics to include: How to prepare your business for contracts, RFP overview, contract vehicles, and current landscape of government consulting
Speakers:
Angela Shell, DGS
Miriam Macias, Clutch
Partick Groves, Clutch
10:30-10:45 – Break
10:45-12:00 pm – Panel on the Experience of Contracting
Speakers:
Lauren Wittenberg Weiner – sold her company to an 8a – largest contract ever awarded to a woman by DOD from Florida
Jack Smith – Fortuna – DVBE and service disabled veteran owned – local Folsom
Deka Dike - DHCS Medical/Medicaid – grant funding winner and connections to hospitals
12:00-1:00pm – Lunch and Networking
We will have representatives from SMUD and CSAC in attendance
1:00-2:00pm – GovTech funding opportunities and innovation
Rachel Stern – GovTech VC
Date: March 12, 2025
Time: 8:30 am - 2 pm
Cost: $100 (use promo code GOVCON10 for 10% Discount
Location: Frequency Coworking & Events, 3249 Quality Dr, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670
Register: rsvpify

Business Model Refresh Workshop
Business Model Refresh Workshop
Is your business struggling to keep up with new competitors? Are you concerned about stagnant growth in a traditional industry? Worried about external challenges like economic uncertainty, evolving markets, or even another recession? If so, it's time to "Refresh Your Business Model" to remain competitive and future-proof your business.
A business model defines how your company creates, delivers, and captures value. But the reality is that the average business model only lasts about five years. In fact, 52% of Fortune 500 companies have disappeared in the past 15 years because they failed to innovate and adapt their business models to evolving market conditions.
In this interactive workshop, you will:
Learn how to assess and evolve your current business model
Gain tools to monitor and adapt your business strategy in real time
Understand the key elements of business model innovation
Explore strategies for balancing growth and exploration to ensure long-term success
Why You Should Attend:
Executives and business leaders must learn to adapt and innovate their business models to avoid becoming obsolete. It’s not just about optimizing current operations — it’s about continuously exploring new opportunities while maximizing existing capabilities. This workshop will provide you with actionable insights to refresh your business model and drive sustainable growth for years to come.
Don’t let your business fall behind. Join us to future-proof your business and stay ahead of the competition!
Date: March 7, 2025
Time: 10 am - 3 pm
Location: Carlsen Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, 6000 Jed Smith Dr Library 1520, Sacramento, CA 95819
Cost: Free (lunch included)
Register: 3Common

Folsom AI Meet Up Featuring Plum Identity CEO Jon Coss
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 are featuring the cofounder of Plum Identity, Jon Coss. Plum Identify uses machine learning to decrease online fraud.
Date: March 4, 2024
Time: 6 - 8 pm
Cost: $5
Register: Startup Grind Sacramento
Location: Granite City Coworking, 705 Gold Lake Dr Ste 250

Folsom Tech Week 2025
Innovation and entrepreneurship are taking center stage in Northern California as the Granite City Entrepreneurship Foundation unveils Folsom Tech Week 2025, a five-day celebration of technology and transformative ideas. From February 24-28, 2025, Folsom will host technologists, entrepreneurs, government officials, and investors for a dynamic series of events centered on the theme “Doing More with Less.”
This inaugural event promises to explore how cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) can reshape industries, improve government efficiency, and inspire responsible innovation.
Event Highlights
Day 1: D.O.G.E. Hackathon (February 24)
The Department of Government Efficiency Hackathon kicks off the week with a 24-hour competition aimed at solving pressing public sector challenges. Teams of innovators, developers, and designers will collaborate to create AI-powered solutions focused on resource optimization and improving citizen services.
Day 2: Networking and Knowledge Exchange (February 25)
The second day is all about connections. Attendees can engage in open coworking sessions, finalize their registrations, and pick up event credentials. A mix of structured and informal networking opportunities will set the stage for meaningful collaborations throughout the week.
Days 3 & 4: Panels, Workshops, and Innovation (February 26-27)
The core of Folsom Tech Week lies in its thought-provoking panels and interactive workshops, featuring experts and thought leaders discussing topics like:
Using Technology for Efficiency in Government
Innovation in Healthcare: Reducing Costs and Improving Outcomes
The Founder Capital Stack: Creative Funding Strategies for Entrepreneurs
Unlocking Northern California for Entrepreneurs
Highlights include the Startup Pitch Competition, where visionary founders will pitch their ideas to a panel of judges and investors. The evenings will come alive with the 90s Concert and Brewfest, celebrating innovation with live music and local craft beer.
Day 5: Job Fair and Closing (February 28)
The final day features the announcement of the Startup Pitch Competition winner and a Job Fair connecting top talent with leading semiconductor and tech companies. Attendees can also participate in investor office hours and wrap up the week with additional networking sessions.
Details
Dates: February 25 -28
Cost: $65
Location: Granite City Coworking
Register: Lu.ma

Veteran Entrepreneur Tribe of Sacramento- Inaugural Networking 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, share experiences, and grow your business. Join a supportive community that values leadership, resilience, and innovation. Everyone is welcome to network and collaborate—don’t miss out!
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: March 20, 2025
Time: 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Location: The Fat Rabbit, 825 Sutter St, Folsom, CA 95630
Cost: Free
Registration: Startup Grind

1 Million Cups in Person Event
1 Million Cups Sacramento is having an in-person meetup on Wednesday, February 19th, 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.
Presenters:
SymSoft Solutions, LLC Axyom Assist is an AI assistant that helps customer service agents excel by providing real-time guidance and relevant information during customer interactions.
BodiAudio has designed and patented a cost effective wireless BT stethoscope for EMT and remote medical applications.
Arrive early to have a chance to say hello to your old friends and to make some new ones!
Agenda
8:30-9:00 Freeform socializing (optional)
9:00-10:00 Formal Program - 2 presenters
10:00-11:00 Freeform socializing (optional)
If you can’t come in person, we will also be live-streaming the meeting on Zoom.
Date: Wednesday, February 19, 2025
Time: 8:30 am - 10 am
Location: Granite City Coworking, 705 Gold Lake Dr Ste 250 Folsom, CA 95630
Cost: Free
Registration: Eventbrite
Thank you to our sponsor SMUD!

The Art of Storytelling
What you do is not necessarily unique. But your story and the impact you're making is.
In a world where the things you do, the products and services you provide, are things that dozens of others are doing, how do you make yourself stand out? You share your story. People connect to PEOPLE, not products and services. And in a world where our thoughts divide, our feelings will unite. Jamie will help you switch the gears in your marketing minds to stray you away from the traditional self-promo type videos that most people use to create video content that ultimately gets overlooked. Jamie will show you the difference in creating content that focuses on your WHAT and instead help you focus on your WHY.
This workshop is aimed to help organizations find and share their stories so that people care about WHO you are, not WHAT you do. Jamie will guide you through finding your focus when creating a video, bringing out the most important, emotive parts and weaving it together to create a story that will receive good attention online and help promote your business and call to action.
Video is incredibly important in today's world. It's how everyone consumes information. After this webinar, you'll walk away with a better understanding of how to tell your own story and how it could make a tremendous difference in making YOU stand out.
Date: February 12, 2025
Time: 6 pm
Cost: $5
Location: Granite City Coworking, 705 Gold Lake Dr Ste 250
Registration: Startup Grind
About Jamie Perez
Jamie Perez is the owner and chief storyteller at Beyond Words Productions – a videography + storytelling company that focuses on creating heartfelt and emotive videos for businesses and nonprofits. Before Jamie became an entrepreneur, she was a TV news reporter for six years. Her career as a broadcast journalist moved her across the country from California to Iowa and eventually Wisconsin, where she covered tragedy, triumphs, politics, community events, and burdened our blizzards and severe weather on live TV. As a reporter, Jamie did everything as a one-woman band from finding her own stories to setting up interviews, filming everything, editing everything, presenting it in front of the camera, writing up the web story and doing it all over again day after day. Jamie said doing it all prepared her to be able to run her videography and storytelling business as a solopreneur. She is driven by emotional storytelling and has a passion for creating empathy through videos. Jamie's videos have helped organizations fundraise, hire staff, promote events, generate leads, and brand and market themselves in new ways that make other people care about them. Jamie’s business motto is: “If a picture says a thousand words, my videos will leave people Beyond Words.”

Folsom AI Meet Up Featuring HuLoop CEO Todd Michaud
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 are featuring the CEO of HuLoop, Todd Michaud. HuLoop Automation transforms industries by integrating Human-in-the-Loop Intelligent Automation, combining human decision-making and governance with AI-driven automation for unmatched efficiency and innovation. With a focus on customer needs, HuLoop simplifies automation, making it accessible to non-technical users and ensuring everyone can benefit. The company envisions a future where humans and AI collaborate to drive growth and success.
Date: February 4, 2024
Time: 6 - 8 pm
Cost: $5
Register: Startup Grind Sacramento
Location: Granite City Coworking, 705 Gold Lake Dr Ste 250

CFO Basics for Startups (Virtual Event)
CFO Basics for Startups (Virtual Event)
This month, we’re excited to welcome Bob Wang who a seasoned Fractional CFO with deep expertise in scaling tech companies. as our guest speaker. Bob will lead a workshop on accounting basics for startups.
As CFO of Traction Guest, he helped grow ARR from $3M to $10M, leading to a $100M exit. He’s reviewed 800+ companies at a private equity firm, advising on what drives investor value.
At Tee Up Advisors, Bob partners with SaaS founders to optimize financial strategy, streamline operations, and prepare for scale. Known for his hands-on approach, he’s dedicated to unlocking growth and helping tech companies hit their next milestone.
Date: January 29, 2024
Time: 5 pm - 6 pm
Cost: Free
Register: Startup Grind
Location: Online

Regulatory Basics for Medical Startups
This month, we’re excited to welcome Natalie Vollrath, Senior Regulatory Consultant at MEDIcept, as our guest speaker. Natalie will lead a 45-minute workshop on "Regulatory Basics for Medical Startups."
In this session, Natalie, a regulatory expert with over 30 years of experience in the medical device industry, will provide an overview of the critical regulatory frameworks startups must navigate. Attendees will gain insights into FDA classifications, ISO standards, and compliance requirements for medical devices, diagnostics, and software. Natalie will guide participants through the essential steps for preparing regulatory submissions, meeting product registration requirements, and ensuring compliance in both U.S. and international markets.
Having led ISO and FDA compliance efforts and contributed to successful product introductions, Natalie will share her expert advice on determining regulatory pathways, preparing documentation, and avoiding common regulatory pitfalls. Whether your startup is just beginning or already developing products, this workshop will equip you with the knowledge to meet regulatory standards and advance with confidence.
Date: January 15, 2024
Time: 6 pm - 8 pm
Cost: $5
Register: Startup Grind
Location: Granite City Coworking 705 Gold Lake Dr Ste 250, Folsom, CA 95630

Folsom AI Meet Up Featuring “Zappy AI Innovator of the Year Award Winner” Aaron Watkins
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 are featuring Aaron Watkins who won the Zappy Award for AI innovator of the year and Storiel who was the runner up at the StartupSac Mock Investor Salon.
Storiel Is an AI copilot that streamlines story editing by providing deep narrative feedback, market insights, and hyper-realistic beta reader responses - helping creative writers produce polished, market-ready stories more efficiently.
Date: January 7, 2025
Time: 6 pm
Cost: $5
Registration: Startup Grind
About Aaron Watkins
Aaron Watkins is a Sacramento Area serial entrepreneur whose startups have included Appency (PR and Marketing for mobile apps), STEMtrunk (subscription STEM toy service) and Can It Be Automated? (Automation consulting, design and implementation). He is an award winning marketer who has been recognized as a Sacramento Top 40 Under 40 and has been named Zapier's AI Innovator of the Year. In his free time he is involved in the local community theater scene where he acts (sometimes) directs (even less) and builds sets (quite a lot!) with his family.

The Art of Storytelling
What you do is not necessarily unique. But your story and the impact you're making is.
In a world where the things you do, the products and services you provide, are things that dozens of others are doing, how do you make yourself stand out? You share your story. People connect to PEOPLE, not products and services. And in a world where our thoughts divide, our feelings will unite. Jamie will help you switch the gears in your marketing minds to stray you away from the traditional self-promo type videos that most people use to create video content that ultimately gets overlooked. Jamie will show you the difference in creating content that focuses on your WHAT and instead help you focus on your WHY.
This webinar is aimed to help organizations find and share their stories so that people care about WHO you are, not WHAT you do. Jamie will guide you through finding your focus when creating a video, bringing out the most important, emotive parts and weaving it together to create a story that will receive good attention online and help promote your business and call to action.
Video is incredibly important in today's world. It's how everyone consumes information. After this webinar, you'll walk away with a better understanding of how to tell your own story and how it could make a tremendous difference in making YOU stand out.
Date: December 12, 2024
Time: 5 pm
Cost: Free
Location: Online
Registration: Startup Grind
About Jamie Perez
Jamie Perez is the owner and chief storyteller at Beyond Words Productions – a videography + storytelling company that focuses on creating heartfelt and emotive videos for businesses and nonprofits. Before Jamie became an entrepreneur, she was a TV news reporter for six years.
Her career as a broadcast journalist moved her across the country from California to Iowa and eventually Wisconsin, where she covered tragedy, triumphs, politics, community events, and burdened our blizzards and severe weather on live TV. As a reporter, Jamie did everything as a one-woman band from finding her own stories to setting up interviews, filming everything, editing everything, presenting it in front of the camera, writing up the web story and doing it all over again day after day. Jamie said doing it all prepared her to be able to run her videography and storytelling business as a solopreneur. She is driven by emotional storytelling and has a passion for creating empathy through videos. Jamie's videos have helped organizations fundraise, hire staff, promote events, generate leads, and brand and market themselves in new ways that make other people care about them. Jamie’s business motto is: “If a picture says a thousand words, my videos will leave people Beyond Words.”