Curious about entrepreneurship but not sure where to start? Whether you have a business idea you’d like to explore or simply want to experience what it takes to turn an idea into something real, the Startup Challenge offers a hands-on introduction to the entrepreneurial process. Over one weekend, you’ll collaborate with a team, test ideas, solve problems, and learn by doing.

Hosted by the Carlsen Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship and StartupSac, the Startup Challenge brings together aspiring entrepreneurs, innovators, students, and business professionals. No existing business, polished idea, or previous startup experience is required. Register by October 19 to take advantage of early bird pricing: $75 for general admission or $25 for students, before prices increase to $99 and $35. Registration includes meals throughout the weekend and an event T-shirt. Learn more and register today!

Experience Entrepreneurship in One Weekend

The Startup Challenge isn’t a traditional conference where you spend the weekend listening to presentations. It’s a hands-on opportunity to experience what it takes to build a startup from the ground up. Beginning Friday evening, participants will share ideas, form teams, and work together to explore and develop a business concept over the weekend. Throughout the weekend, teams will explore customer needs, develop solutions, test their assumptions, and prepare a pitch. By Sunday, you’ll have experienced the process of developing an idea, testing assumptions, working through challenges, and presenting a solution—skills you can apply whether or not you ever launch a startup.

No Business Experience? No Problem.

One of the biggest misconceptions about entrepreneurship is that you need a business degree, technical background, or groundbreaking idea to get started. The Startup Challenge is designed to remove those barriers. Whether you’re a small business owner exploring new opportunities, a student curious about entrepreneurship, or someone interested in learning how startups work, this event is for you.

You don’t even need to bring an idea! Participants can join a team and contribute their skills, perspectives, and creativity. With resources and support available throughout the weekend, you’ll learn by doing and gain firsthand experience turning an idea into a potential business.

Connect With Sacramento’s Startup Community

Building a business doesn’t happen in isolation. The Startup Challenge brings together people from across Sacramento’s entrepreneurial ecosystem to exchange ideas, collaborate, and build meaningful connections. Throughout the weekend, you’ll work alongside others who share an interest in innovation, entrepreneurship, and solving real-world problems.

For early-stage founders, it’s an opportunity to strengthen entrepreneurial skills and meet potential collaborators. For aspiring entrepreneurs, it’s a chance to experience what starting a business actually involves. Whether your team continues developing its idea or not, you’ll walk away with practical experience, valuable connections, and a stronger understanding of the startup process.

What You Need to Know Before Registering

The Startup Challenge takes place November 13 to 15, 2026, at the Carlsen Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship at Sacramento State. Participants will spend three days working with their teams to develop and pitch a business idea. To get the most out of the experience, participants should plan to attend the majority of the weekend.

Weekend Schedule:

  • Friday, November 13: 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM
  • Saturday, November 14: 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM
  • Sunday, November 15: 9:00 AM to 8:30 PM

Take advantage of early bird pricing through October 19, 2026! General admission is just $75 before increasing to $99, while currently enrolled students can register for $25 before the price increases to $35. Registration includes meals throughout the weekend and an event T-shirt.

Registration Details:

  • General Admission: $75 early bird / $99 regular
  • Student Admission: $25 early bird / $35 regular
  • Age Requirement: Participants must be 18 or older.

Take the First Step Toward Entrepreneurship

You don’t need a business idea or plans to launch a startup to benefit from the Startup Challenge. All you need is curiosity and a willingness to try something new. Over one weekend, you’ll gain practical experience, work with people from different backgrounds, and discover what goes into developing and testing a business idea. Whether you’re exploring entrepreneurship for the first time or looking to strengthen your skills, the Startup Challenge is an opportunity to learn, connect, and challenge yourself.

Register For Startup Challenge Here

Early bird registration ends October 19, so don’t wait to secure your spot.

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