This October, entrepreneurs, founders, students, investors, innovators, and community leaders from across the North State will come together in Chico for GrowTECH FEST 2026, a two-day event featuring learning, networking, startup pitches, and hands-on opportunities to help attendees build stronger businesses and make valuable connections.
Two Days Focused on Entrepreneurship and Growth
Taking place October 8 and 9, 2026, GrowTECH FEST will give attendees opportunities to hear from business leaders, participate in expert-led sessions and workshops, and connect with others across the startup ecosystem. Whether you are testing an idea, looking for ways to grow your business, searching for resources, or hoping to meet potential partners, the event offers a chance to gain new perspectives and participate in the North State’s growing entrepreneurial community.
Learn Through Keynotes, Sessions, and Workshops
GrowTECH FEST also gives attendees an opportunity to learn from experienced entrepreneurs and business leaders. The two-day experience will feature inspiring keynotes, expert-led sessions, strategic networking, and hands-on workshops focused on helping entrepreneurs develop and scale their ideas.
Instead of relying only on theory, the event is designed to give attendees practical insights they can bring back to their own companies, projects, and organizations. Whether you are working on an early-stage startup or growing an established small business, the goal is to leave with new ideas, stronger connections, and actionable knowledge.
Students Can Apply for the NEXTGEN Lightning Round
GrowTECH FEST also gives the next generation of entrepreneurs an opportunity to take the stage. The NEXTGEN Lightning Round will take place on October 8 and invites eligible students from California’s North State to pitch their startup ideas.
Each pitch presentation must be no longer than one minute, challenging students to clearly communicate their idea and its potential. Applications will be evaluated based on desirability, feasibility, viability, and the startup pitch deck.
A panel of GrowTECH FEST judges will select the top three participants, with first, second, and third place winners receiving cash prizes. Eligible students must be 18 or older, registered as a student in California’s North State, and have a valid student email address and student ID.
The application deadline is Friday, September 18 at 11:59 p.m. Apply here.
GrowTECH FEST 2026 Event Details
Ready to connect with founders, innovators, investors, and business leaders from across the North State? Make plans to join the entrepreneurial community in Chico for two days of learning, networking, workshops, and startup pitches.
Dates: Thursday, October 8 and Friday, October 9, 2026
Location: Sierra Nevada Big Room, 1075 East 20th Street, Chico
Time: Event times vary by day and session
Registration: General Admission through September 30. Late Bird registration runs October 1 through October 8.
RSVP Here
Wrap Up
Entrepreneurship does not happen in a vacuum. The people you meet, lessons you learn, and opportunities you discover can shape where your business goes next. GrowTECH FEST brings those elements together in one place. Join founders, innovators, investors, students, and community leaders in Chico on October 8 and 9 and become part of the growing North State entrepreneurial community.
Interested in learning about more programs that support entrepreneurs? Join our newsletter here to stay updated on opportunities and resources.
