There’s a lot going on this week and next for entrepreneurs and startup founders. We’ve curated a short list below. For the full rundown of what’s happening this week and next, check out this week’s Startup Digest. While you’re there, be sure to subscribe to get it in your inbox every Monday morning!
Featured
NorCal AngelCon Applications Due Friday
Apply by August 1
Startups in the Greater Sacramento region can apply to compete for $80K+ in equity-backed funding and $20K in non-dilutive capital. Applicants must have an MVP or early revenue and potential for high growth. Brought to you by the Carlsen Center and Growth Factory through SEGA’s Accelerate CA program. Apply here.
SEGA Innovation Grant Competition Applications Due Friday
Apply by August 1
SEGA’s Accelerate CA Hub is awarding $150,000 in non-dilutive grants to support AgriFoodTech, Health & Life Sciences, and CleanTech/ZEV innovation clusters, with $50,000 per cluster. Learn more.
Startup Challenge
Fri, Sep 26, 5:30 PM – Sun, Sep 28, 8:30 PM, at the Carlsen Center at Sac State in Sacramento
Stop thinking and start doing! This weekend-long event brings aspiring founders together to form teams, build real startups, and make progress fast—no business experience required. Open to anyone 18+. This is a 3-day event. Read more.
Want to learn more? Join the Startup Challenge Info Session on Tue, Sep 9 from 12-12:30 PM online. RSVP here.
This Week
Managing Co-Founder Conflict Before It Derails Your Startup
Tue, Jul 29, 12:00 – 1:00 PM, Online
Learn how to handle tough conversations, build trust, and manage tension early—before it derails your startup. Read more.
1-on-1 Office Hours with Growth Factory EIRs
Tue, Jul 29, 12 – 3 PM, at the Roseville Veture Lab
Got a startup idea or early-stage company? Meet with Growth Factory’s Entrepreneurs-in-Residence for personalized guidance. Intake form required before attending. Read more.
1 Million Cups Sacramento with Core Envision
Wed, Jul 30, 9:00 – 10:00 AM, Online
A weekly event where founders share their startups and get feedback from fellow entrepreneurs. This week: Core Envision, helping builders frame faster and cut costs with AI-powered blueprint modeling. Read more.
DGB Blockchain & Crypto Mixer
Wed, Jul 30, 2:00 – 4:00 PM, at Capsity Sacramento
Connect with Sacramento’s blockchain and crypto community at this casual mixer hosted by DGB VC and sponsored by CapCityBTC, Accredited Network, and Capsity. Meet local founders, including portfolio company Thurman Labs. Read more.
Fall 2025 Alchemist Microenterprise Academy Info Sessions
Wed, Jul 30, Aug 5, Aug 12, 6 – 7 PM, Online
Alchemist Microenterprise Academy (AMA) is a 12-week business training course designed to make sense of the confusing aspects of starting a food business. AMA targets entrepreneurs in the greater Sacramento region, particularly those who are from low-income backgrounds or under-resourced communities. You must attend an info session before you apply. Applications are due August 17. Read more.
Live Startup Office Hours with Traction Lab
Fri, Aug 1, 12:00 – 1:00 PM, Online
Join JDM and Cam Law of Traction Lab every Friday for no-fluff startup advice. Get real-time, evidence-backed feedback on your toughest early-stage challenges—no slides, no coddling, just clarity. Read more.
Plan Ahead
CleanStart Perspectives: Build Better Content Using AI
Thu, Aug 7, 9:00 – 10:00 AM, Online
Learn how to create content that connects, converts, and saves you time—without losing your voice. Scott Eggert, startup founder and CEO of MKTNG, shares AI-driven strategies to help early-stage entrepreneurs grow their brand with intention. Read more.
AgStart Learn from a Local: Abhaya Dandekar
Thu, Aug 7, 5:30 – 7:30 PM, at AgStart Event Center in Woodland
Join AgStart’s monthly speaker series featuring Dr. Abhaya Dandekar, Director of the UC Davis Plant Transformation Facility, as he shares insights on tissue culture and the future of orchards and vineyards. Read more.
Morning Grind: Featuring GRIN Founder Brandon Brown
Fri, Aug 8, 8:30 – 10:00 AM, at The Urban Hive in Sacramento
Start your Friday with coffee, connection, and a candid fireside chat with Brandon Brown, founder of GRIN—the influencer marketing platform that’s raised $150M+ and reshaped the creator economy. Hosted by Startup Grind. Read more.
Startup-Tech Connect
Mon, Aug 11, 5:30 – 7:30 PM, at Hop Gardens in Sacramento
Join Sacramento’s tech and startup community for an evening of real conversations, guided networking, and shared inspiration. Pizza, beer, and bold ideas included. Read more.
Pitch Elk Grove
Thu, Sep 4, 4:30 – 8:00 PM, In-person in Elk Grove
Watch Northern California’s top startups compete live for $20,000 in prize money at this high-energy pitch competition. Hosted by Invest Elk Grove, StartupSac, and Explore Elk Grove, Pitch Elk Grove is a celebration of innovation, entrepreneurship, and community—complete with local beer, wine, and bites. Read more.
Applications
UC Law SF Startup Legal Garage
Apply Now for Free Legal Assistance!
Startup Legal Garage is currently accepting applications for its free legal assistance program aimed at supporting startups. Applications accepted on a rolling basis until all spots are full. Applications are for Fall 2025 cohort. Visit Startup Legal Garage to learn more and apply.
Startup Pitch Workshop
Applications Open for this Monthly Event
Refine your startup pitch and get feedback from experienced coaches. Two founders will pitch and receive insights—apply in advance to pitch. Next session is August 14, 5:30-6:30 PM, Online. Read 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.
