This week, entrepreneurs and startup founders are in for a treat—it’s Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW), an inspiring global celebration of innovation, entrepreneurship, and the power of ideas. From November 18–22, 2024, our region is hosting a packed schedule of events, activities, and opportunities to connect and learn. This year’s theme, “Entrepreneurship is for Everyone,” invites individuals from all walks of life to join the conversation, explore opportunities, and celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit. Be sure to check out the full lineup of events below, and if you’d like to stay ahead on future opportunities, subscribe to the Startup Digest to get updates on what’s happening next in the Sacramento startup ecosystem.
Featured Events
Sacramento Entrepreneurial State of the Union
When: Monday, Nov. 18, 5:30–7:30 PM
Where: Carlsen Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Kick off GEW with a comprehensive look at the Sacramento region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Network with innovators and leaders shaping the future of our community and hear updates on local initiatives driving innovation.
Startup Happy Hour
When: Tuesday, Nov. 19, 5–7 PM
Where: Limelight Bar, Cafe & Cardroom
Join us for a special Startup Happy Hour featuring a panel of dynamic entrepreneurs, including Clive Savacool (LogRX), Shweta Ghandi (Strived.io), and Da’Shena Payne (Caged). This event, hosted in partnership with the Carlsen Center, is part of Global Entrepreneurship Week.
1 Million Cups: In-Person Meetup
When: Wednesday, Nov. 20, 8:30–10 AM
Where: Carlsen Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Start your morning by connecting with local entrepreneurs at this in-person gathering. Hear from two startup founders as they share their journeys and get feedback from the community.
Mentor Sprint
When: Wednesday, Nov. 20, 10:30 AM–12 PM
Where: Carlsen Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Participate in a fast-paced mentoring session where entrepreneurs can connect with experienced mentors for advice and support.
NorCal AngelCon
When: Wednesday, Nov. 20, 5–7:30 PM
Where: Growth Factory
This pitch event showcases innovative startups competing for investment opportunities. Come watch as entrepreneurs present their ideas to a panel of angel investors.
More GEW Happenings
Monday, Nov. 18
- Funding in CleanTech | 12–1:30 PM | Explore opportunities for financing innovative clean technology solutions.
Where: Carlsen Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship - NorCal Entrepreneur Hub – Demo | 10–11:00 AM | Demo and information session on the NorCal Entrepreneur Hub!
Where: Online - Impactful Innovations in Health & Human Services | 12–1 PM | Learn how entrepreneurship drives progress in health and human services.
Where: Online - Unlock the Power of SBIR Funding | 2:30–3:30 PM | Discover how to leverage SBIR funding to grow your business.
Where: Carlsen Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Tuesday, Nov. 19
- Becoming an AI Orchestrator | 10:30–11:30 AM | Dive into the role of AI in shaping the future of business.
Where: Carlsen Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship - Funders & Founders | 12–1 PM | A collaboration with FourthWave, connecting entrepreneurs and investors.
Where: Online - Reimagining Waste | 12–2 PM | Explore the circular economy and opportunities for reducing waste in Placer County.
Where: Carlsen Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship - Rancho Cordova Business Resource Fair | 4–7 PM | A free event offering resources for local businesses.
Where: Rancho Cordova City Hall, American River Rooms
Wednesday, Nov. 20
- Zero to Traction | 12:30–1:30 PM | A practical guide to launching and scaling your startup.
Where: Carlsen Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Thursday, Nov. 21
- FourthWave Investor Salon | 9–10:30 AM | A gathering of investors and entrepreneurs focused on women-led startups.
Where: Online - Innovations in Health + Life Sciences | 10:30–11:30 AM | A showcase of cutting-edge developments in health and life sciences.
Where: Carlsen Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship - NAWBO Business Builder | 11:30 AM–2:30 PM | A networking and learning opportunity for women business owners.
Where: Frequency Coworking - From Serving Our Nation to Serving Customers | 12:30–1:30 PM | Stories of veterans transitioning into entrepreneurship.
Where: Carlsen Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship - CHOOSE FOLSOM: NCID Pitch Nights | 5:00 – 6:30 PM | Pitch event connecting startups and investors.
Where: NCID at Granite School in Folsom
Application Deadlines
Sacramento Entrepreneurship Academy (SEA)
Applications Open for 2025 Cohort – Due Dec 11
Open to professionals, entrepreneurs, and students, the SEA offers hands-on business education, mentorship from industry leaders, and a dynamic curriculum designed to accelerate your career and launch your business. Learn More/Apply
Connect
Looking to connect with others? Join the StartupSac Community Facebook Group! Startup founders and those who support the growth of our startup community connect and exchange ideas in this private moderated group.
Resources
Check out the StartupSac Website for information on resources available to help entrepreneurs grow their businesses. Also check out the NorCal Entrepreneur Hub. From capital to connections and training to talent, find the resources you need to build your business in NorCal.
