Career Mentoring San Francisco

ELC Annual 2026: 2-Day Conference for Eng Leaders to Reconnect in San Francisco

The ***[ELC Annual](https://elc.community/public/events/elc-annual-2026)*** is built around a simple belief: the most valuable learning happens in conversation - with peers who are navigating the same pressures, making the same hard calls, and building through the same uncertainty. This year, we're going deeper on the questions that don't have easy answers. What does it mean to lead well when the ground keeps shifting? How do you build teams that are resilient, high-trust, and genuinely high-performing, not just on paper? What does great engineering leadership look like beyond the technical, in the moments that require judgment, integrity, and clarity of purpose? Across roundtable discussions, intimate speaking sessions, and 1:1 conversations, you'll engage with engineering leaders who are thinking seriously about these questions — and willing to share what they've actually learned. — What you'll explore * Leadership & Strategy Leading through uncertainty and volatile decision-making environments. The evolving CTO/VP role — from roadmap owner to visionary strategist. Ethical decision-making, leadership integrity, and purpose-driven organizations. Storytelling and influence: communicating complex ideas to executives and boards. * Teams & Culture Building high-trust teams and psychological safety at scale. Navigating culture shifts in growing organizations. Scaling hybrid and remote work — the practices and rituals that actually stick. Building inclusive engineering cultures and diverse talent pipelines. * Talent & People Development Developing next-generation leaders through mentoring and succession planning. Continuous performance management and feedback systems. Retention, engagement, and creating environments where people genuinely thrive. Hiring for potential: assessing soft skills and growth mindset. * Cross-Functional Collaboration Aligning engineering, product, and design around shared outcomes. Breaking down silos with tools and practices that work. Customer-centric engineering: building products users truly love. Cross-functional OKRs and collaborative planning across roadmaps and backlogs. * AI in Practice Building AI-enabled teams — what it looks like beyond the theory. AI in software development: coding assistants, prompt engineering, and human-AI collaboration. Translating AI trends into actionable engineering strategy. Architecting AI systems that make it to production and stay there. * Engineering Excellence Measuring developer productivity, satisfaction, and team health. Observability and incident response in AI-enabled systems. Balancing innovation with operational priorities. Coaching teams through change without losing momentum. — What to expect **Roundtable Discussions** Small-group sessions facilitated by experienced practitioners — designed for active participation, not passive listening. These are the conversations where people say what they actually think. **Speaking Sessions** Close-up conversations with engineering leaders who are actively shaping what the role looks like today. Past speakers have included leaders from OpenAI, Stripe, Google, Dropbox, Atlassian, and Slack, as well as Reid Hoffman, Max Levchin, and Adam Grant. **1:1 Meetings** Structured time to connect directly with peers, mentors, and industry veterans. Some of the most valuable relationships in ELC have started here. — Leave with a clearer sense of what kind of leader you want to be - and a network of people who are working toward the same thing. Register ***[here](https://elc.community/public/events/elc-annual-2026)***.

Bay Area Capital Connections Conference

**[The Bay Area Capital Connections Conference](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/bay-area-capital-connections-conference-tickets-1998448387925?aff=oddtdtcreator)** returns under this year’s theme, **“From Resiliency to Power,”** bringing together entrepreneurs, business leaders, professionals, nonprofits, and community partners for a dynamic day of **connection, learning, and opportunity.** **From Resiliency to Power** reflects a shift from simply navigating challenges to building the relationships, knowledge, resources, and opportunities needed to move forward with greater strength and purpose. Through engaging **speakers, panels, capital connections and networking opportunities,** attendees will connect with people and ideas that can help strengthen businesses, organizations, and communities. Whether you're an entrepreneur building or growing a venture, a professional expanding your network, a nonprofit or community leader seeking partnerships, or someone looking to make meaningful connections across the Bay Area, this conference is designed to help turn **resilience into action—and action into power.** Come ready to **connect, learn, build relationships, and move forward together.** \-\-\-\-\-\- Since its launch over 15 years ago, the Bay Area Capital Connections (BACC) Conference has brought together the full entrepreneurship ecosystem from investors and mentors to funders, trainers, and decision-makers. Each year, BACC convenes diverse entrepreneurs and community leaders from across the region to: * **Increase access to all forms of capital** — financial, social, human, intellectual, and cultural. * **Create values-aligned business opportunities** rooted in equity and community impact. * **Feature powerful entrepreneur stories** and influential keynote speakers. * **Host panel discussion** tailored to real-world business challenges and themes. * **Attract \~150 attendees** committed to inclusive economic growth. **Purchase your ticket [HERE](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/bay-area-capital-connections-conference-tickets-1998448387925?aff=oddtdtcreator)** **VIP RECEPTION WILL FOLLOW AFTER MAIN CONFERENCE AT NIDO'S BACKYARD IN OAKLAND FROM 4:30-6:30PM** **AGENDA:** 10:30 AM **Welcome & Opening Remarks** 12:00 PM **Fireside Chat:** The Power of Starting: Turning Ideas Into Opportunity Tony Lam shares insights from his entrepreneurial journey, including building businesses through Launch Your First and his experience with Shark Tank, offering lessons on entrepreneurship, growth, capital access, and navigating today's business landscape. 11:30 AM **Keynote Address: Featuring Mandela Schumacher-Hodge** Entrepreneur • Investor • Ecosystem Builder Mandela SH is an entrepreneur, investor, and ecosystem builder whose career has focused on expanding access and opportunity within the startup and venture capital ecosystem. She is the founder of Founder Gym, which trained hundreds of underrepresented founders around the world, and previously served as CEO of All Raise and Portfolio Services Director at Kapor Capital. Her work as a founder, investor, executive, educator, and community builder has earned national recognition, including Forbes 30 Under 30 and LinkedIn’s Top Voices in Venture Capital & Entrepreneurship. 11:10 AM **Panel 1: The Power of Place: Small Business, Culture & Community** 12:30 PM **Lunch & Networking** 01:00 PM **Capital Connections** An interactive networking session connecting entrepreneurs with lenders, investors, Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), philanthropic partners, and business support organizations representing multiple forms of capital, technical assistance, and business resources. 02:00 PM **Spoken Word Poetry Performance by José Cordon** Antioch Poet Laureate and member of the Antioch Business Collaborative performs an original spoken word piece celebrating the resilience of entrepreneurs, the strength of community, and the power of collective action. 02:10 PM **Panel 2: Building Strong Small Business Ecosystems Through Collaboration** 03:00 PM **Panel 3: Building Wealth, Capital Opportunity & Lasting Impact** 03:50 PM **Closing Remarks** 04:30 PM **VIP RECEPTION Begins at Nido's Backyard**

An Authentic, Trusting & Powerful Men's Circle

Many of us arrive at MDI looking for something. At this point in our lives we have had several challenges. Some that have made us better, some that have rocked the foundation of everything we know and experience in our daily lives. We have felt isolated, alone, burdened, broken even. I was unsure that anything outside of me could hold solutions, or that it was possible for me to learn new ways of being that would connect me with other men-that I could find a place where I could develop into mature masculinity to be able to not only solve some of my problems, but learn how to lead teams of men. This begs a question: How is the world better off with Mature Masculine Leadership, and what is in it for me? Here are a few answers. If your interest is peaked, consider reaching out to us, claim your future... The world is significantly better off with **Mature Masculine Leaders** because such leadership brings a balanced, grounded, and principled approach to power, responsibility, and service. Here's how this benefits society: Mature masculine leaders typically embody **emotional regulation, self-mastery, and integrity**. This creates more stable governments, organizations, and families. These leaders don’t react impulsively or let ego drive decisions—they respond with clarity, long-term thinking, and accountability. *They become anchors in chaos.* The benefit to the world is **transformational**. Mature masculine leaders don't just govern—they **mentor, stabilize, and serve**. Their presence often leads to safer societies, stronger institutions, healthier families, and more cohesive communities. When men lead from maturity, not insecurity or domination, **everyone—regardless of gender—thrives.** Mentor Discover Inspire (MDI) is an international men's organization. You can also [visit our website ](https://www.mentordiscoverinspire.org/) to find out more about us. There is a form there which can help find an MDI Team in your area. If you fill out the form we will get back to you about starting the process of joining an MDI Team.

You’re Not Late, You’re Early: Career Value in the AI Era

We are excited to welcome [Josh Drean](https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshdrean/) for a thought-provoking conversation on AI and Data Ethics. In this session, Josh will explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping the workforce and why today’s students may be more prepared for this shift than they realize. Drawing from his upcoming book, *After the Jobs Are Gone: How to Prove Your Value in the Post-Employment Era*, he will discuss how adaptability, contribution, and portable skills are becoming increasingly important in a rapidly changing world. Josh is a three-time startup founder, author, and workforce futurist. He is the co-author of *Employment is Dead* (Harvard Business Review Press) and co-founder of Decentrive, a contribution-based work ecosystem. His work on artificial intelligence and the future of work has been featured in Harvard Business Review, Forbes, Fast Company, and MIT Technology Review. Join us for an engaging discussion on the future of work and what it means to create value in the age of artificial intelligence.

SF FREE Film Industry Pitch Fest- INVESTORS, FILMMAKERS, PRODUCERS, ACTORS etc

Job Seeker Meetup: An in-person peer support space for job seekers

This is a relaxed, in-person gathering where job seekers can connect, share, and support one another through the ups and downs of the job search. Looking for work can feel isolating — but you’re not alone. This is a welcoming space to: * Talk openly about your experience * Swap advice, encouragement, or leads * Build a community of people who truly understand * Learn practical job search strategies from career coach Annie Nogg. Whether you're between jobs, changing careers, or figuring out your next step — this is a place for you. **This program takes place in the Jobs and Career Center - 4th Floor of the Main Library (100 Larkin Street)**

Professional Business Networking Mixer at InterContinental SF | Oct 7, 2026

Join us for our Professional Business Networking Mixer on Wednesday, October 7th, 2026 from 6PM to 8PM PDT at InterContinental SF **The Professional Connector** next **Professional Business Networking Mixer** is on **Wednesday, October 7th, 2026 from 6PM to 8PM PDT** at **InterContinental San Francisco by IHG** located at **888 Howard St, San Francisco, California.** Whether you’re looking to expand your network, explore new opportunities, or simply unwind after work, this mixer offers the perfect setting for meaningful conversations and connections. We look forward to an evening of networking, great drinks, and engaging conversations. RSVP Now for FREE Early Bird Tickets while avialable. General Ticket is $15. Early registration is encouraged. **RSVP NOW: [https://professionals-business-mixer-ihg.eventbrite.com](https://professionals-business-mixer-ihg.eventbrite.com/)** ***RSVP on Meetup does not guarantee admission!*** **Note #1**: If you are feeling sick, have a cough, cold, fever, or any other symptoms, please stay home and join us at a future event when you are feeling better. **Note #2:** We are grateful to our host venue for welcoming our group. Please support them by purchasing at least one drink and, if possible, some food, and by tipping generously. Our **Professional Business Networking Mixer** events are where young professionals, startup professionals, executives, tech leaders, and more meet, relax, and have a good time making connections after work. Interested in meeting amazing professionals? Come to the beautiful InterContinental San Francisco and be ready to build relationships, expand your network, and have a great time! This is a great opportunity to find new connections and meet new people in general. Regardless of your industry level, or your industry you are welcomed to join us. RSVP Now for FREE Early Bird Tickets while avialable. General Ticket is $15. Early registration is encouraged. **RSVP NOW: [https://professionals-business-mixer-ihg.eventbrite.com](https://professionals-business-mixer-ihg.eventbrite.com/)** ***RSVP on Meetup does not guarantee admission!*** Our attendees work at companies such as Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Google, ZeroCater, Coffee Meets Bagel, Redfin, Google, Comcast Ventures, Oracle, Salesforce, GoPro, Sequoia Real Estate, DoorDash, Hyatt Regency, BlueCart, Kaiser Permanente, IBM, Genentech, Deloitte, Nestle, Accenture, HP, Intel, Amazon, Lyft, Facebook, HSBC, Capegimini, Yelp, J.P. Morgan and more. ***RSVP on Meetup does not guarantee admission!*** [The Professional Connector](https://professionalconnector.com/) has hosted successful events with well-known sponsors and partners. Based on the type of event we reach out to different partners we have worked with in the past and are always looking for new sponsors. Our previous Partners and Sponsors have included such companies as WP Engine, Instapage, vCita, General Assembly, Constant Contact, Yelp, WeWork, Diablo Magazine, SF Business Times, Lyft, Uber and more. To learn more about our Sponsorship Opportunities, call us today at 510-761-5895 or visit our website [www.ProfessionalConnector.com/Sponsors/](https://www.professionalconnector.com/sponsors/) **The Professional Connector** proudly hosts this networking happy hour at the **InterContinental San Francisco**, one of the city’s premier luxury hotels located in the heart of the South of Market (SoMa) district. Known for its contemporary design, upscale atmosphere, and exceptional hospitality, the InterContinental provides the perfect setting for professionals to connect, socialize, and build meaningful relationships. Join an evening of networking with entrepreneurs, business leaders, tech professionals, and new connections in a sophisticated and welcoming environment. With its modern interiors, stylish gathering spaces, and vibrant downtown energy, the InterContinental San Francisco offers an ideal backdrop for after-work networking and memorable conversations. Conveniently located near the Moscone Center, Financial District, Union Square, and many of San Francisco’s leading business and technology companies, the InterContinental San Francisco is a preferred destination for corporate events, professional gatherings, and social networking experiences. **Located at 888 Howard St, San Francisco, California.** We can’t wait to see you! RSVP Now for FREE Early Bird Tickets while avialable. General Ticket is $15. Early registration is encouraged. **RSVP NOW: [https://professionals-business-mixer-ihg.eventbrite.com](https://professionals-business-mixer-ihg.eventbrite.com/)** ***RSVP on Meetup does not guarantee admission!*** **MEET THE PROFESSIONAL CONNECTOR/EVENT HOST - David Mitroff, PhD** David is a sought-after Business Growth Strategist who shares his secrets for creating successful brands that stand out and thrive. David inspires business professionals through his keynote talks on a wide range of topics such as how to build a brand with data-driven marketing, digital leadership: growing your online presence, and the psychology behind building professional connections. **David Mitroff, Ph.D.** ([www.DavidMitroff.com](https://www.davidmitroff.com/)) is the Founder and Chief Consultant at Piedmont Avenue Consulting ([www.PiedmontAve.com](https://www.piedmontave.com/)). David questions assumptions, offers creative ideas, and encourages new initiatives from strategy through implementation. David’s wealth of knowledge is transferred to clients leading to heightened sales, increased customer experiences, and enhanced relationship building techniques. David has an extensive educational background, in addition to professional sales training, which includes a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology with coursework in Business Administration, Legal Studies, and Marketing, providing a foundation for excellent critical and analytical thinking, business strategy, relationship building, and networking. Piedmont Avenue Consulting provides professional business consulting services designed to help businesses navigate growth, strategy, and operational challenges. Whether you are looking for [business consulting in Newport Beach](https://piedmontave.com/newport-beach-business-consulting/), [business consulting in San Diego](https://piedmontave.com/san-diego-business-consulting/), or broader [business consulting services](https://piedmontave.com/consulting/), Piedmont Avenue Consulting offers tailored guidance to support your business goals. Businesses in Northern California can also explore [Bay Area business consulting](https://piedmontave.com/bay-area-business-consulting/) and specialized [Oakland business consulting](https://piedmontave.com/oakland-business-consulting/) services. Contact us at [www.PiedmontAve.com](http://www.piedmontave.com/), and let’s create a customized plan to elevate your business success. Throughout his career, Dr. Mitroff has served as an instructor for several reputable colleges such as the University of California at Berkeley, in addition to being a featured media expert for NBC, ABC, Forbes, Entrepreneur, Inc. Magazine, Washington Post, Hospitality Technology, Hospitality Net and more. David has also written books on[ Online Business Growth Strategies](https://davidmitroff.com/marketing-book/), [Law Firm Business Growth Strategies](https://davidmitroff.com/books/), [The Event Effect](https://davidmitroff.com/books/), and more! If you're looking for a business consultant, keynote speaker, executive coach, or marketing expert, schedule a FREE call with David Mitroff Ph.D. to get started! RSVP Now for FREE Early Bird Tickets while avialable. General Ticket is $15. Early registration is encouraged. **RSVP NOW: [https://professionals-business-mixer-ihg.eventbrite.com](https://professionals-business-mixer-ihg.eventbrite.com/)** ***RSVP on Meetup does not guarantee admission!*** [The Professional Connector](http://www.professionalconnector.com/). A vision of [Piedmont Avenue Consulting, Inc.](http://www.piedmontave.com/) We organize and promote hundreds of Bay Area business networking and social mixers to specifically target Business Strategies and Small Medium Business Enterprises and provide industry professionals with a chance to make new business and personal connections, build their network, find new clients, and expand their business. We bring the SF Bay Area working community together and strive to promote positive business relationships. ### **Frequently Asked QuestionsWhy Attend?** Looking to expand your professional network in the Bay Area entrepreneurial and business community? Our Cocktails and Tech Happy Hour is the perfect place to meet founders, entrepreneurs, investors, creatives, marketers, and professionals from a wide range of industries. Exchange ideas, build meaningful connections, discover new opportunities, and stay connected with what’s happening in the local business scene — all in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. ### **Who Usually Attends?** Our events attract a diverse mix of professionals, including entrepreneurs, investors, consultants, marketers, recruiters, business owners, and creatives. Attendance can range from intimate gatherings to larger mixers with hundreds of attendees. No matter the size, the environment is always friendly, social, and easy to network in. Event hosts will also be available throughout the evening to help introduce guests and keep conversations flowing. ### **What Should I Bring?** Bring business cards and be ready to share your LinkedIn profile or contact information. Networking events move quickly, so having an easy way to connect after the event helps turn conversations into lasting professional relationships. ### **Is There a Dress Code?** Business casual is recommended. Whether you’re coming from work or meeting friends afterward, we encourage attendees to dress polished and professional. Photos and videos may be taken during the event, so it’s a great opportunity to make a strong impression. ### **What’s on the Menu?** Enjoy expertly crafted cocktails and beverages available throughout the evening at **InterContinental San Francisco by IHG**. Sip, unwind, and connect in a stylish atmosphere while enjoying drinks designed to elevate your networking experience. ### **Want to Expand Your Network?** Whether you’re looking for new partnerships, career opportunities, business ideas, clients, or simply a fun and productive way to spend your evening, this mixer is designed to help you connect with ambitious and like-minded professionals. Invite your colleagues, friends, or team members and join us for an evening of networking, conversations, and community at InterContinental San Francisco. RSVP Now for FREE Early Bird Tickets while avialable. General Ticket is $15. Early registration is encouraged. **RSVP NOW: [https://professionals-business-mixer-ihg.eventbrite.com](https://professionals-business-mixer-ihg.eventbrite.com/)** ***RSVP on Meetup does not guarantee admission!***

BALDT Fall Social: The Future of Learning Design

**Have you ever worked in L&D, Customer Education, or Enablement?** Maybe you’re looking to break into the industry. If any of that sounds like you, let’s meet up! **Join us at the [Barebottle Beer Garden in Salesforce Park](https://www.barebottle.com/salesforce-park-beer-garden) for a casual gathering with fellow learning design enthusiasts.** (If the weather really stinks, we’ll move around the corner to [83 Proof](http://www.83proof.com/). We’ll send an update on the day of the meetup to confirm the final location.) There’s no formal agenda, but we’d love to hear your thoughts about how technology is shaping the future of learning design. **Hope to see you there!** **We also recently launched a [LinkedIn group](https://www.linkedin.com/groups/40251013/) for the BALDT community.** It’s a place to connect between events and share what you’ve been working on. You don’t have to be located in the Bay Area to join; all we ask is that you have an interest in learning design. Come check it out! Photo by [clement proust](https://unsplash.com/@clementproust?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText) on [Unsplash](https://unsplash.com/photos/person-walking-on-palm-tree-path-sF26NzXCWPM?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText)

FREE: Happy Hour - San Francisco

## **PMI SF Bay Area Student Club \| Networking Social** ### 🤝 Expand Your Network, Meet Fellow Project Professionals. Looking to connect with other project professionals in a relaxed, welcoming setting? Join the **PMI San Francisco Bay Area Student Club** for an evening of networking, conversation, and community. Whether you're a student, early-career professional, experienced project manager, or exploring a career in project management, this social event is a great opportunity to meet like-minded people and grow your professional network. No presentations. No formal agenda. Just great conversations over food and drinks. *** ### 🌟 Why Attend This networking social is a chance to: * Meet students and project professionals from a variety of industries * Expand your professional network in a casual environment * Learn more about the PMI SF Bay Area Student Club * Connect with peers, mentors, and future collaborators * Enjoy an evening of food, drinks, and conversation *** ### 🎓 About the PMI SF Bay Area Student Club The PMI SF Bay Area Student Club is officially chartered through PMI Global and serves as the home for students across **all schools and all stages of their academic journey**. Led by students, the club represents the student voice within the chapter by creating events, supporting academic outreach, and building connections between students and industry professionals. Did you know? * The chapter has **120+ student members** * Approximately **one-third are PMI certified** * Nearly half are experienced professionals working in technology, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, construction, and other industries Whether you're an undergraduate student, graduate student, career changer, or working professional, you'll find a welcoming community here. *** ### 🎯 Who Should Attend Everyone is welcome, including: * Undergraduate and graduate students * Early-career professionals * Experienced project managers * Career changers * PMI Members and non-members * Anyone interested in networking within the project management community ### 🚗 Transportation & Parking The venue is conveniently located within walking distance of: * BART (Montgomery Station) * AC Transit (Salesforce Center) Nearby public parking garages are also available. *** ### 📝 Registration **FREE for all attendees.** Walk-ins are welcome, but we encourage registering in advance to help our event leaders plan accordingly. *** ### 💵 Cost There is **no event registration fee**. Attendees are responsible only for purchasing their own food and beverages from the venue (separate checks). Please drink responsibly. *** ### 🌐 Why PMI San Francisco Bay Area PMI San Francisco Bay Area is one of the world's largest PMI chapters, bringing together thousands of project professionals through networking events, educational programs, mentorship, and volunteer opportunities. The Student Club provides an inclusive space for students and professionals to build meaningful connections and support one another throughout their careers. *** ### 👥 Event Host **PMI SF Bay Area Student Club** This event is hosted by the PMI SF Bay Area Student Club, a student-led community dedicated to connecting students and professionals through networking, learning, and career development opportunities. *** ### 💬 What to Expect This networking social is designed to be: * Casual and welcoming * Great for meeting new people * Open to all experience levels * Focused on building genuine professional connections Bring your curiosity, your business cards (if you have them), and enjoy an evening with the PMI SF Bay Area community. *** **Questions?** 📧 **studentclub@pmisfbac.org** ###

San Francisco Startup Networking: Real Problems, Real Answers, After Work

Join founders, investors and tech talent at this curated **startup networking event in San Francisco.** Meet ambitious builders, exchange ideas and discover new opportunities in a dynamic community environment. **RSVP: [Use this link](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/san-francisco-startup-networking-real-problems-real-answers-after-work-tickets-1997948335254?aff=oddtdtcreator&keep_tld=true)** **Please note that RSVP is managed via Eventbrite to control attendee lists — don’t ignore it to avoid issues with on-site payment.** You don't need permission to enter the startup world. You need one working session. The way into a founding team isn't an application — it's being visibly useful to someone who's stuck. This evening is built exactly for that: founders bring the problems they can't crack, and the room works on them together, five people at a time. **🎯 WHAT YOU GET OUT OF IT** Pricing, first hires, distribution, retention, churn — the things you've already solved at your job are exactly what's on the board tonight. Being the person who unlocks that conversation is how operators end up as co-founders, advisors and first hires. And you bring your own problem too: everyone here is both client and consultant. Yours can be "should I leave my job for a startup" — that's a real problem and the room has opinions worth hearing. **⚙️ HOW THE EVENING RUNS** Everyone submits one problem before the event, so the board is full when you arrive. The room votes, tables form — five people, one problem at a time. Two minutes to explain it, three minutes of questions only, eight minutes while the table works on it out loud and the author takes notes without defending. Halfway through, a second vote: the problems that didn't make the first round get their turn. **⏰ BUILT AROUND A WORKDAY** Doors at 7, structured part done by 9:10, bar open after. Home when you want. **🎤 NOBODY LEAVES WITH NOTHING** Near the end the host asks who still has no answer, and the room finds them a contact — by name, out loud. **🤝 MUTUAL MATCHES ONLY** You mark who you'd work with, we connect when it's mutual, within 48 hours. No cold lists, no awkward follow-ups. **📋 ONE THING IS REQUIRED BEFORE YOU COME** After booking you'll get a three-minute form in our [Mini App:](https://ascentvalley.com/community "https://ascentvalley.com/community") your problem in one line, some context, how long it's been unresolved. Only submitted problems make the board. **👥 WHO'S IN THE ROOM** Product, engineering, GTM and sales operators · solo founders looking for a commercial or product partner · builders exploring their next move · founders with teams who came to solve something specific. Hosted by **Andrew Krylow.** He greets every guest at the door, seats you at the right table, and makes the introductions. WHAT'S GUARANTEED: a curated room, two working sessions, mutual matches within 48 hours. WHAT WE DON'T PROMISE: a room full of investors. Some evenings have angels and scouts, some don't — better you know before you buy. Three rules said out loud: what's said here stays here · we share experience, not advice · switching tables mid-session is normal. Registration required. Contacts saved through the Ascent Valley Mini App inside Telegram — no new account. Ascent Valley — a founder and investor ecosystem across 20+ cities. [IDEA → PROCESS → RESULT.](https://ascentvalley.com "https://ascentvalley.com")

Bootstrappers Breakfast for San Francisco Startups

Come Meet Entrepreneurs Who Eat Problems For Breakfast At a Bootstrappers Breakfast® we have serious conversations about growing a business based on internal cash flow and organic profit: this is for founders who are actively bootstrapping a startup. The other attendees will all be in startups. It will be a chance to compare notes on operational, development, and business issues with peers. NOTE: We start with round-the-table introductions, so be on-time so you don't miss that! For more information about the group - visit bootstrappersbreakfast.com (http://www.bootstrappersbreakfast.com/)

Dr. Stone Love Fauré and Dr. Michelle Hector II—No Longer the Outsider

An inspiring conversation featuring two Black women authors who are making their mark in the entrepreneurial space. In conversation with Brigette LeBlanc of LeBlanc Associates, LLC, authors and business women, Dr. Stone Love Fauré and Dr. Michelle Hector, II, will share their distinct perspectives on overcoming resistance, building confidence, and claiming their rightful place in business and society. One author brings lessons from her work as a Pilates instructor, while the other teaches individuals how to make bold, strategic power moves. Although their philosophies and approaches differ, both offer compelling insights into ambition, self-determination, and the courage required to become who you are meant to be. Dr. Stone Love Fauré is a premier award-winning international speaker, writer and mentor for women entrepreneurs. She is the recipient of the Presidential Award and an Honorary Doctorate in Humanities Award and an international retreat leader and certified coach with over 20 years of coaching experience. She is the author of 3 best-selling books, including *I Am Her: The Woman I’ve Always Been But Never Known.* A Club Pilates instructor, she shares her life enhancing expertise with her students. Dr. Michelle Hector II is a leadership scholar, national speaker, published author and executive coach with over 25-years of experience across finance, technology, and higher education. Dr. Hector’s work centers on empowering leaders—particularly women and underrepresented professionals—to navigate power, influence, and organizational systems with confidence and authenticity. An accomplished educator, she has taught business and leadership courses for more than 14 years and currently teaches at University of San Francisco and UC Berkeley Extension. Her book *The Constant Outsider: Black Women at the Intersection of Bias and Brilliance,* examines the lived experiences, strategies, and resilience of Black women executives who have sustained leadership roles across industries. Brigette Renee LeBlanc is a former Commissioner for the City and County of San Francisco. LeBlanc is an established and well-known global event and meeting planner in the hospitality and entertainment industry through LeBlanc and Associates, LLC. A proud native of San Francisco, she is deeply rooted in the Bayview Hunters Point, District 10. Her upbringing and education in the city's public schools, including her graduation from Lowell High School, laid the groundwork for her success. With nearly three decades of experience as an entrepreneur, LeBlanc's career reflects her resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment to her community. She is currently president of the San Francisco African American Chamber of Commerce. **This program takes place in the Latino Meeting Room on the Lower Level of the Main Library (100 Larkin St)**