Looking to grow your business, connect with investors, or turn an idea into a startup? Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW) 2026, taking place November 16 through 20, brings together Sacramento’s entrepreneurs, small business owners, founders, and innovators for events focused on business growth, funding, mentorship, and networking. This year’s theme, “Entrepreneurs Thrive Here,” celebrates the people and organizations helping businesses succeed in their communities. Explore the events below and register to take advantage of these opportunities.
Global Entrepreneurship Week Sacramento: Schedule of Events
Monday, November 16
Capital Innovation Summit
9 AM–4 PM | Carlsen Center, Sacramento State
Explore AI, robotics, biotech, advanced manufacturing, startup pitches, and investment opportunities.
Sacramento Entrepreneurial State of the Union & Silent Pitch
4:30–7:30 PM | Carlsen Center, Sacramento State
Meet regional startups, vote on pitches, and hear about Sacramento’s entrepreneurial future.
Tuesday, November 17
Women’s Health Innovation Forum (Nov 17–18)
8:30 AM–4 PM daily | Aggie Square, Sacramento
A two-day summit connecting researchers, founders, and investors to advance women’s health innovation.
Rancho Cordova Business Resource Fair
4–6 PM | Rancho Cordova City Hall, 2729 Prospect Park Dr.
Discover business resources, funding opportunities, and networking connections.
Startup Happy Hour with Destiny Oliphant
5–7 PM | Flatland Brewing Company, Elk Grove
Join StartupSac for networking and an AMA with the founder of Insta Brow.
Testing Your Business Ideas with David Bland
5–7 PM | Roseville Venture Lab, Roseville
Learn practical ways to test business ideas, validate assumptions, and reduce startup risks.
Wednesday, November 18
Future Folsom Economic Forum
7:30–10 AM | 745 Oak Ave Pkwy, Folsom
Hear economist Chris Thornberg and regional leaders discuss economic trends and growth.
1 Million Cups Sacramento
8:30–10 AM | Carlsen Center, Sacramento State / Online
Watch Monava and CognitiveProsthetics.AI present their startups and receive community feedback.
Mentor Sprint
10:45 AM–12:30 PM | Carlsen Center, Sacramento State
Get personalized business advice through fast-paced, 15-minute mentoring sessions.
Small Business Growth Summit
5–8 PM | Location not provided
Explore practical AI tools, business growth strategies, networking, and a small-business marketplace.
NorCal AngelCon Final Pitch Event
5:30–8:30 PM | Connect Labs by Wexford, Aggie Square
Watch four startups compete for over $100,000 in funding and vote for the Audience Award.
Thursday, November 19
Impactful Innovations & Entrepreneurship in Health & Human Services
11 AM–12 PM | Online via Zoom
Hear how health and human services leaders turn their expertise into impactful ventures.
Scout Pathfinder Academy: Navigating the Capital Stack (Nov 19–20)
Thu–Fri, Nov 19–20 | 9 AM–4 PM daily | Carlsen Center, Sacramento State
A two-day workshop helping founders develop funding strategies involving grants, contracts, equity, and loans.
Friday, November 20
SMUD Spark Sacramento: Innovation Showcase
8:30 AM–12 PM | SMUD Customer Service Center, 6301 S St., Sacramento
Discover six clean energy startups presenting innovative solutions to SMUD experts.
Connect, Learn, and Grow During Global Entrepreneurship Week
Whether you’re launching your first startup, growing an existing business, or exploring new opportunities, Global Entrepreneurship Week offers a chance to connect with Sacramento’s entrepreneurial community and access valuable resources. Find the events that match your goals, register, and be part of Global Entrepreneurship Week 2026!
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