Because it’s a holiday week, there isn’t much going on this week. But here’s some good news for founders who want to be learning over the next two week: The Carlsen Center offers two self-paced programs: the Entrepreneurship Toolkit Series for foundational guidance and the Innovation Series with 15+ workshops on scaling strategies. Both programs provide expert insights to help you refine and grow your business. Explore these invaluable resources here!
There are a few things happening over the next two weeks. We’ve curated a short list below; for a full listing of everything that’s going on, check out this week’s Startup Digest! While you’re there, you can sign up to receive the digest in your inbox every Monday morning!
Be sure to check out the applications section. While the deadlines aren’t eminent, there are some new programs coming up in 2025 you’ll want to know about!
Featured
Sacramento Entrepreneurship Academy (SEA) – Last Call!
Apply for 2025 cohort
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
This Week
Startup Funding AMA & Founder Institute Info Session
Mon, Dec 30, 10 – 11:30 AM, Online
If you’re interested in learning about startup funding and discovering how the Founder Institute can help, join this live and interactive online event featuring Jonathan Greechan, CEO and Co-Founder of the Founder Institute. The webinar will kick off with a brief presentation on fundraising and an overview of the Founder Institute, followed by 30-45 minutes of ‘Ask Me Anything’ (AMA) covering all topics related to FI and entrepreneurship. Bring your questions and make the most of this opportunity to get expert advice and insights! Read more.
SBA: How the US Small Business Administration Can Help You
Mon, Dec 30, 12 – 1 PM, Online
Join us online to discover the various resources and support available for small businesses through the US Small Business Administration. Learn about loans, counseling, contracting opportunities, and more. Read more.
Connect @ No Hands Coworking
Thu, Jan 2, 6 – 7:30 PM, In-person in Auburn
Kick off the new year by connecting with fellow professionals at No Hands Coworking! This casual networking event is a great opportunity to build relationships, share ideas, and start 2025 with fresh collaborations in a vibrant coworking space. Read more.
Plan Ahead
Folsom AI Meet Up Featuring “Zappy AI Innovator of the Year” Aaron Watkins
Tue, Jan 7, 6 – 8 PM, In-Person in Folsom
Come join out our monthly AI gathering at Granite City Coworking, where we’ll enjoy some pizza while engaging in laid-back discussions on everything Artificial Intelligence! Each month, we spotlight a local AI startup to keep things fresh and interesting. Whether you’re an experienced developer or a curious student, you’re more than welcome to join us. Read more.
Sac Valley SBDC: How To Apply For A Business Loan: 3-Part Series
Thu, Jan 9, 4 – 5 PM, Online
Join our 3-part online webinar series designed to help business owners and entrepreneurs confidently prepare a complete business loan package. This session is about how to prepare and create your business plan. Read more.
Applications
Traction Lab Venture Accelerator
Applications Open
Ready to accelerate your startup’s growth? The Traction Lab Venture Accelerator, powered by the Carlsen Center and The Right Box, helps pre-seed and seed-stage, tech-enabled startups with funding and traction reach their next fundraising round in half the time. Learn More.
Economic Gardening 2.0 Program
Apply by January 17
The City of Sacramento offers local businesses up to 40 hours of market research consulting and up to $50,000 in matching funds for growth. Eligible companies must be established in Sacramento for at least 5 years, have 5-99 employees, $1M-$50M in revenues, and generate 50% of revenue from outside the county. Learn More
2025 Circular Economy Innovation Competition
Apply by February 21
The Western Placer Waste Management Authority (WPWMA) invites you to apply for the 2025 Circular Economy Innovation Competition! Showcase your solutions for transforming waste into valuable resources, compete for $20,000 in cash awards, and receive mentorship to bring your vision to life. Learn more.
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.
