Startup Incubation

Looking to connect with fellow founders and entrepreneurs or simply looking for an excuse to drink on a Wednesday? Join us for a relaxed evening of camaraderie and beer, the premier monthly gathering for startup founders and entrepreneurs. Nestled in the cozy ambiance of a classic English pub, this is the perfect spot to connect with like-minded innovators, exchange best practices, and unwind after a day of disrupting industries. Whether you're pitching your latest idea or simply soaking in the entrepreneurial spirit over a good brew, you'll find yourself in great company. Raise a glass to successes, share the hurdles, and toast to the journey of entrepreneurship.

Hello! I’m organising a coworking + socialising session for all of us who are working on projects (e.g. our own creations, freelance or remote work) but don't feel like sitting alone at home. 🙂 To ensure that we have time for both socialising AND working, we will be using the so-called “Pomodoro” technique: **50 mins deep work** (silent), followed by **10 mins break** to socialise. And then repeat! You are welcome to join whatever your personal background is, and whatever project you are working on. I (the host) speak English and German, so either language is fine. ——————————————————- AGENDA: * **Short Intro** Tell us who you are and share something about what you will be working on today * **Pomodoro Session** \- 3x \(3h\) Each Pomodoro session consists of 50 mins focused “deep work” (no talking, no interruptions, **phones on silent mode**) -> then 10 mins break: a chance to share your progress with others -> Repeat * **15 mins Wrap Up** Celebrate what you achieved and get to know others 😊 ———— The location is **Espresso House near Checkpoint Charlie** (they have multiple outlets - so be sure to go to the correct one!) Wifi + power plugs are available - but best to bring a fully charged laptop, just in case 🙃 You **do not** have to pay anything. But since we are using the café space, it is common courtesy to buy at least one drink (coffee costs roughly **4 Euros**).

Join us for a thrilling and empowering Martial Arts Training hosted by the **Juk Cheon Do** \- Self Defense and Martial Arts group\! Our wednesday training is focused on **Striking and Weapon training as well as the sparring in those disciplines**. This event is perfect for adults looking to enhance their self-defense techniques, improve fitness, and learn this unique Korean German Martial Arts. Whether you are a newbie or have experience in MMA Mixed Martial Arts or Weapon fighting Styles like FMA, this training will offer valuable insights and practical training exercises to bring your skills to another level. Get ready to boost your confidence, strength, and agility while embracing the physical and mental challenges of this martial arts training and enjoy this fantastic opportunity to make new friends within the community of like-minded individuals who share a passion for martial arts. We are not a huge group and like to train in a nice atmosphere with each other. Everybody is welcome weather you are a total beginner or experienced martial artist, weather your are top fit or you want to be it. Don’t be afraid and never forget, everybody starts at one point as a beginner. Important is the will to start. So no excuses! Start today! And of course we are also open to females, males and whatever. Here everybody is equal to share the same fun and pain. ;) Languages: German, English, Korean, Japanese. If the door is closed or you can’t find us, please call me: 01781830004 !

Am 14. Januar ab 19.00 Uhr zeigen wir in unserem Coworking Space im KALLE Neukölln den Film "Cycling Cities" von Ingwar Perowanowitsch - herzliche Einladung! 🚵🏼🚲🚵🏼‍♀️🚲🚵🏼‍♂️ Der Eintritt ist frei, wir bitten aber um einen Solibeitrag für den Filmemacher. Hier geht es zum [Trailer](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B85hOkuXweo) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- On January 14 at 7 p.m., we will be showing the film “Cycling Cities” by Ingwar Perowanowitsch in our coworking space at KALLE Neukölln — you are cordially invited! 🚵🏼🚲🚵🏼‍♀️🚲🚵🏼‍♂️ Admission is free, but we ask for a voluntary contribution for the filmmaker. Click here for the [trailer](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B85hOkuXweo)

❤️Herzlich willkommen zu unserem **wöchentlichen** Treffen "Das GLÜCK 🍀 neu starten" Gesund glücklich bis ins hohe Alter Ich freue mich, Euch zu unserer wöchentlichen Vortragsreihe und unserem Netzwerktreffen an einen wunderschönen Ort einladen zu können. "Die **GLÜCKs:WERKstatt**" am Dämmeritzsee Ein Vortrag mit wechselnden Themen zeigt, wie wir unser Lebensgefühl "Glücklich sein" wieder selbst verbessern können. Wir gehen in dem Vortrag auf die 3 Grundbereiche eines glücklichen Lebens ein: **Gesundheit**: Fitness, Vitalität, anti aging **Geld**: Finanzelles Wohlbefinden **Gemeinschaft** : Verbundenheit, gemeinsam GLÜCK kreieren und erreichen Ihr könnt Fragen stellen, eigene Geschichten erzählen und Kontakte knüpfen. Wir genießen miteinander außerdem die wunderschöne Aussicht auf den Dämmeritzsee, nette Gespräche und leckeres Fingerfood (Wer mag, bringt fürs Buffet eine Kleinigkeit mit, gerne gesund 😉) Wir freuen uns, wenn ihr euch wohl fühlt 😍 _(5€ Unkosten-Beitrag für Räume, Getränke, Orga usw., per Paypal oder auch vor Ort)_ Anmeldung über meetup oder besser bei mir unter **01784676193** Wir freuen uns auf euch Das GlücksTeam Und Eure Glücksbeauftragte 🍀💃 Carola Hinz

Meet other people in the Berlin tech industry in a low key, no expectations setting. We all have to eat, so don't eat alone! Rules: 1\. Register 2\. Show up \(we have limited seats\) 3\. Meet people 4\. Be nice and enjoy dinner\! There are no other expectations :)

**Stop loneliness and boredom: meet people in a pleasant atmosphere and learn about friendship.** \-\-\-\- **💶 Contribution on site: EUR 10-20 (according to your means)** **You can buy a ticket in advance on Eventbrite to guarantee your place: [Tickets on Eventbrite \[Link\]](https://www.eventbrite.de/e/meet-connect-real-friendships-in-berlin-workshop-tickets-1671592250419).** 🇬🇧 This workshop is held in English. 🇬🇧 *This event is also announced in another group and on a different platform. The number of registrations does not reflect the real number.* \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- People with good **friends live longer, happier, more succesful and healthier**. Big plus: **good friends are fun to be around**. Hence, we offer this friendship workshop. Some people say, “It's hard to find close friends in Berlin.” Berlin, the city of a thousand possibilities... I know what you mean... I feel you. . . **🚀 Let's do a workshop on real friendships!** * Up to 40 people * An easy-going facilitator guides through the evening * You get to know each other * latest research about real friendships * Those who want: meet again. Simple. . **Be surprised, how familiar you will feel after three hours.** . . ⏰ **The door opens at 6:45 p.m. Be punctual, be on time. Germany ;).** * Hang up your coat, go to the bathroom, get a tea, chat a bit, find a seat, and then get started. * No entrance after 6:59 pm, because workshop has started by then. No exceptions. . . **🔱 4 years of work - 1 workshop** For four years, I have researched and experimented on how people become friends. This evening is the result. You'll get the latest bites of friendship theory, plus practical tools that are easy to implement. Above all, you'll try things out together. It's fun. * Once, a participant said to me: “Georg, this stuff works magically!” * What shall I say? “Yes! I hope so! That's what we are here for.” **Imagine: a room full of pleasant people who are looking for real friendships.** . . **🌞 Do you know the Mere Exposure Effect?** It says: The more often you meet, the more familiar you will get. On the workshop, I will tell you why your nervous system is like this. It is particularly relevant for shy, anxious or introverted people. . Hence, friendship grows on pleasant reunions, connection, reliability, and emotional depth. . To support this, we offer a wide range of activities: hikes, excursions, walks, women's evenings, men's evenings, and workshops on personal development, social skills and communication. . **Until you are connected with the right friends and click with them.** . That is the goal! 🤗 . **Telegram Channel (events, workshops, friendship research results):** [t.me/legendary_friends](t.me/legendary_friends) . . **🌎 Find out more about Legendary Friends** You will find alot of friendship knowledge at: [www.abenteuer-freundschaft.de](www.abenteuer-freundschaft.de) \- A german speaking website\. We are famous in German so far\. . However, people from different countries successfully use translation tools to get what they need. . Some knowledge is translated into English at [www.legendary-friends.com](www.legendary-friends.com). . **🍀 6 Fundamental Secrets of Real Friendships** 30 pages eBook: **[The 6 Fundamental Secrets of Legendary Friendships](https://www.abenteuer-freundschaft.de/links/newsletter-legendary-friends/)**[ - ](https://www.abenteuer-freundschaft.de/links/newsletter-legendary-friends/)**[How to Create Great Friendships for Life](https://www.abenteuer-freundschaft.de/links/newsletter-legendary-friends/).** . You get the 30 pages eBook for free (at the moment) plus a monthly update of friendship research when subscribing to the newsletter. . To be honest: I am lazy and I only write a newsletter if I really have news. So, no spam. Promised. (And presumably less than one email per month). **See you at the workshop and let's become friends 🤗.**

**UPDATE, RSVPs closed:** We are at capacity and sadly have to stop RSVPs here! Please check out our upcoming Meet &Greet in February or join us for graduation of the current cohort: **Graduation 29th of January**: [https://www.meetup.com/de-DE/berlin-startup-founder-101/events/312843609/](https://www.meetup.com/de-DE/berlin-startup-founder-101/events/312843609/) **Next Meet & Greet 12th of February:** [https://www.meetup.com/de-DE/berlin-startup-founder-101/events/311972275/](https://www.meetup.com/de-DE/berlin-startup-founder-101/events/311972275/) We are proud to continue this free flow meet & greet session in the Bar of the social hub with guided networking and great people from different angles of the Berlin startup ecosystem! If you have a startup idea or a growing company and you want to expand your network in Berlin, then join us for the in-person 'Founder Meet & Greet' event. At this informal networking event, you can connect with other early-stage entrepreneurs, startup mentors, and advisors from the Founder Institute Berlin network. Socialize over drinks with potential co-founders, advisors, mentors and partners. Most of all, get away from the computer and have fun! ❯ **Your hosts of the day:** * Ferdinand Mühlhäuser (Business Angel & Coach, MD @ Founder Institute Berlin) * Kaai Malkwitz (Impact Director @ Founder Institute Germany) * Mats Kuuskema (Country Director Germany @e-Residency Estonia) ❯ **Who should Attend?** * Anyone interested in entrepreneurship * Anyone who has a pre-seed tech company or a startup idea * Anyone interested in joining a startup accelerator * Anyone who is looking for a cofounder or would want to join a startup as a cofounder ❯ **What is the Agenda?** * (Guided) Networking, Socializing and Drinks **❯❯ This is a live offline event, to be sure to receive our updates be sure to RSVP at** [https://fi.co/e/376735/meetup](https://fi.co/e/376735/meetup)**!** To join our upcoming Founder Institute program in October 2025, you can apply here: **[https://fi.co/Berlin](https://fi.co/Berlin).** For more information about the investors, accelerators, incubators, and [tech events available in Berlin](https://fi.co/events/berlin), see our [list of Startup Resources](https://fi.co/startup-resources). **About Estonia e-Residency** Launched in 2014, e-⁠Residency provides entrepreneurs from around the world secure digital access to Estonia's advanced e-services and transparent business environment. Today, the programme helps over 110,000 people and their businesses operate location independently. [Here's how they do it and how they got here](https://www.e-resident.gov.ee/). **About Founder Institute** The [Founder Institute](https://fi.co/berlin) is the world’s most proven network to turn ideas into fundable startups, and startups into global businesses. Since 2009, our structured accelerator programs have helped over 7,000 entrepreneurs raise over $1.75BN in funding. Based in Silicon Valley and with chapters across 100 countries, our mission is to empower communities of talented and motivated people to build impactful technology companies worldwide.

Looking to unwind, meet fellow founders, and connect with others in the startup world? Join us for a casual evening of good food, great company, and a friendly game of poker, Cash game with 5/10 cents blinds (€10 buy in). **What to Expect** * 7:00 – 8:00 PM: Get to know each other over homemade dinner & drinks * From 8:00 PM: Poker evening (friendly cash game) **💸€20 including dinner, drinks, and snacks.** This is all about building connections in a relaxed setting. share ideas, swap stories, and enjoy some lighthearted competition at the poker table. Whether you’re new to the game or a pro player, you’re welcome to join! Spaces are limited, so RSVP to save your seat. **Want in? [Join the WhatsApp Group Founders & Startups Poker Night ♠️](https://chat.whatsapp.com/C02KYYSMS8cGgKocAoOhkk) where I will be sharing more details later**

🌟 Join us for **"Don't Eat Alone"** – an event designed to transform your lunch break into a social feast! **Tired of solitary meals in front of the computer?** **Thriving to meet some new people and curious what it may bring to your life?** Just come, check and enjoy a delicious meal with friendly faces. Connect with like-minded individuals, engage in conversations, and make your lunchtime a memorable social experience. Mark your calendar, bring your appetite, and let's build connections, one meal at a time! 🍽️🤝✨ PAYMENTS: the meetup is free, but everyone pays for their meals. Here you can pay by card easily.

Unser Verein berlinCreators e.V. trifft sich jeden Freitag ab 18 Uhr im Makerspace. Wir haben Gruppen rund um Elektronik, 3D-Druck, Nähen, Programmieren, Retro Computer. Egal ob Anfänger oder Profi – hier seid Ihr Willkommen. Ihr könnt mit anderen fachsimpeln, Euch inspirieren lassen oder auch mit unserer Hilfe Eure ersten Projekte starten. Wenn Ihr Euch bei uns wohlfühlt und Mitglieder bei den berlinCreators werden möchtest, freuen wir uns. Kommt vorbei, lernt den Space, uns und die Möglichkeiten kennen.

Are you interested in **GenAI assisted software development**? Are you using **Cursor** & Co already? Do you want to learn how to solve problems by creating digital tools yourself? Then this is for you. **Afterwork meetup** at the Byron Bar, Bayer Pharma Headquarters in Berlin, dedicated to exchanging experiences using AI as assistant to develop software. You will meet here software developers, GenAI enthusiasts, solo programmers, and, since many of us work in the healthcare industry, expect to meet people in diverse roles there: doctors, biologists, chemists, pharmacists, physicists, mathematicians, biochemists. Date & Time: January 15, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM Location: Byron Bar, Bayer Pharma Headquarters, Berlin What to Expect: * **Speakers: Ryan Sudhakaran, Marisa Breall / Cursor (Anysphere)** * **Tool Sharing**: **Share in 5 minutes** your hands-on experiences with tools like Cursor, Windsurf, Amazon Q, Lovable, Cline. **Contact us upfront**; jesus delvalle at bayer.com. * **Networking**: **Connect** with fellow developers and healthcare professionals. * **Community Building**: **Join us** to foster a supportive network that helps each other navigate GenAI in healthcare. What to Bring: **YOU!** And desire to share and learn the enormous possibilities of GenAI assisted coding. Btw on a January 15th 2001 the first edit of **WIKIPEDIA** was made. 25 Years ago! If you are like me and some of us a Wikipedia Fan and like to edit and create pages there, talk to us; we will for sure find a way to help and learn from each other.

**Founders Running Club** (FRC) brings founders, investors, tech, creative people and startup enthusiasts together for weekly easy runs and networking. We like to be comfortable when we run and finish with coffee and conversations. Choose your pace or follow a pacer—pets, friends, family, are welcome. 🗓️ Launched in San Francisco, July 16, 2022 🌍 Now in 35+ cities 📅 Running + Networking events + Community **Join the community** [http://foundersrc.com/chats](http://foundersrc.com/chats) **Stay updated**: Instagram [http://instagram.com/foundersrc/](http://instagram.com/foundersrc/) Podcast [http://podcast.foundersrc.com/](http://podcast.foundersrc.com/) LinkedIn [http://linkedin.com/company/foundersrc/](http://linkedin.com/company/foundersrc/) Strava [http://strava.com/clubs/foundersRC](http://strava.com/clubs/foundersRC) Website [http://foundersrc.com/](http://foundersrc.com/)

How are you? It has been a long time! I would like to re-activate this meetup, because there are so many interesting hardware projects going on in Berlin. In this next meetup we plan two short presentations. 1\. Bram de Vries\, co\-founder of **Growy**, a fully automated and robotized vertical farm, developed in Berlin, built in Amsterdam. A presentation about the challenges of how to make low-cost automation for the food-industry. 2\. Ahmad Taleb\, co\-founder of **Wunderpen**, automated hand-writing. The story about robots that can write personal messages with a pen, and handling lots of paper and ink. After that there is plenty of time to network and to talk about your own projects. The location is at the Office of Growy Germany in Berlin Hohenschönhausen/Lichtenberg. We will take care of snacks and drinks. **Address:** Growy Germany GmbH Große-Leege-Straße 97/98 Enter the courtyard through the gate, walk straight to the grey door at the loading dock 13055 Berlin Can be reached with the M5 Tram or Bus 294 or Bus 256 Please RSVP

## 1 Million Cups Loudoun – January 14 ### Business Presentation Featuring Yomna Sarhan of L-Lab **Wednesday\, January 14 \| 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM** **Venture X Loudoun – Ashburn** Join us for our January 14th **1 Million Cups Loudoun** meeting as we welcome **Yomna Sarhan**, founder of **L-Lab**, an innovative after-school enrichment program designed to transform how children learn and grow beyond the classroom. ### About the Presenter Yomna Sarhan brings a diverse and impressive background to her entrepreneurial journey. She is a former **project manager overseeing $8M+ in government contracts**, has led **multidisciplinary teams of more than 20 employees**, and is a **multilingual consultant** who has worked in over **10 countries**. Yomna also founded a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the **Society of Egyptian American Professionals**, reflecting her long-standing commitment to education and community development. ### About the Business L-Lab was born out of a personal experience. When Yomna’s daughter was entering kindergarten, she discovered a lack of high-quality, enriching after-school programs in Loudoun County. Many existing programs focused solely on supervision rather than meaningful learning—despite children spending 10–15 hours per week and families investing significant resources in aftercare. L-Lab is changing that narrative. L-Lab is an **after-school language immersion enrichment program** for elementary-aged children, blending: * STEAM-based learning * Social-emotional development * Montessori-inspired approaches In addition to after-school programming, L-Lab offers **full-day camps** during school breaks, including winter, spring, and teacher workdays. ### Where Yomna Is Now L-Lab is currently in the **launch/startup phase**, with the full after-school program beginning in early January and a winter break program running at the end of December. Yomna is focused on enrollment, program validation, and building a strong foundation for growth. ### Feedback Yomna Is Seeking from the Community Yomna is coming to the 1 Million Cups stage looking for thoughtful feedback and insight on key challenges, including: * How to **shift the mindset around after-school programs** from “time-filling childcare” to meaningful enrichment * The most strategic way to **scale after a successful pilot** (January–June): * Expanding curriculum into schools * Focusing on one location first * How to **find and retain high-quality part-time staff** aligned with L-Lab’s mission and values ### Who Should Attend Yomna would especially love to have: * Entrepreneurs with experience **scaling service-based businesses** * Founders who have **modified or diversified offerings as they grew** * Parents and guardians interested in education, enrichment, and after-school programming ### What Is 1 Million Cups? 1 Million Cups is a national program powered by the Kauffman Foundation that brings together entrepreneurs and community members for weekly conversations that educate, support, and inspire. Loudoun’s chapter meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of each month. Join us on **January 14 at 9:00 AM** for coffee, connection, and a meaningful conversation about reimagining after-school education in Loudoun County. **We look forward to seeing you there.**

After a short break, Pitch Labs is back with the first event of the 2026 season. Styled after a 'pitch competition', this event is for entrepreneurs, and the entrepreneurial-curious. Learn about on-going initiatives from local area founders, and there will be ample time for networking. This event will bring together start-up founders and enthusiasts in the DMV area for an exciting opportunity to hear about a fellow founder, and give feedback on their pitch and product, and get to network around founders from the area. Location: 10300 Eaton Place, Fairfax VA - many thanks to our venue sponsor Fairfax Country Economic Development **Our Agenda:** 1\. Basic group introductions 2\. First "Pitch" Presentation \(\~15 minutes\) 3\. Community Q&A 4\. Second "Pitch" Presentation \(\~15 minutes\) 5\. Community Q&A 6\. Break out sessions & general networking More information will be provided as we get closer to the meetup. **Speakers** TBD Parking will be shared before the event. Pitch Labs is a member of the [DMV Petri Dish Network](https://www.dmvpetridish.com/ "https://www.dmvpetridish.com/")

Come connect with fellow Startup founders over complimentary appetizers and great conversation at our monthly Startup Grind DC Founders Dinner. Quick heads-up: Your ticket gets you into the event and covers appetizers. Entrées and drinks will be on individual tabs. We’re also looking for sponsors who want to support the DC founder community. Whether that’s hosting us, covering food, or contributing financially, sponsors get the chance to connect directly with founders, get shoutouts in our promotions, speak at events, and reach our 10,000+ Pre-seed to Series A founders across the DMV. Agenda --- Hosted By Mia Orantes, Chapter Director I'm a dynamic speaker, angel investor, serial entrepreneur, the host of the celebrated Founders Only podcast, and the CEO & founder of the award-winning agency that automates online growth and profitability engines, Creative Analytics. As a lifelong entrepreneur, I am devoted to serving founders by showing them the road map for rapid online growth and helping them navigate that journey. A native Washingtonian, I hold several designations, including a PMI-certified Project Management Professional (PMP) and Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification, an MBA & MS in Information Technology with a concentration in Project Management, and an in-progress certificate in Digital Transformation & AI from Cornell University. --- Partner Creative Analytics (https://creativeanalyticsdc.com/) Creative Analytics is a B2B growth marketing agency that leverages data-driven strategies and creative design to optimize digital performance and boost conversions for innovative brands. Specializing in SaaS, tech, and professional services, their services include conversion rate optimization, HubSpot implementation, content marketing, and web development. The agency combines deep expertise in CRO and product messaging with automation, helping clients scale faster with less time and effort. --- Startup Grind is a global startup community designed to educate, inspire, and connect entrepreneurs. We host monthly events in more than 600 cities and 125+ countries featuring successful local founders, innovators, educators and investors who share personal stories and lessons learned on the road to building great companies. Our monthly fireside chat interviews, startup mixers and annual conferences provide ample opportunities to connect with amazing startups and the people behind them, tap into a strong support network, form meaningful connections and gain inspiration for the startup journey ahead. For more information visit StartupGrind.com or follow us on twitter @StartupGrind. --- Complete your event RSVP here: https://www.startupgrind.com/events/details/startup-grind-washington-dc-presents-january-2026-startup-founders-dinner/.

## **1 Million Cups Loudoun – January 14 Business Presentation** **Featuring Eric Wojtkun of Focal Point Coaching** **Wednesday\, January 14 \| 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM** **Venture X Loudoun – Ashburn** Join us for our **January 14th 1 Million Cups Loudoun** meeting as we welcome **Eric Wojtkun**, founder of **Focal Point Coaching**, for a powerful conversation on leadership, resilience, and preparing businesses to thrive before challenges arise. **About the Presenter** Eric brings a rare and compelling background to entrepreneurship. An **Army BRAT, Army Veteran, and FBI Agent**, Eric has lived in 17 places, served two overseas deployments (Bosnia and Kosovo), and worked across nearly every major FBI discipline — from violent and white-collar crime to cyber, counterintelligence, crisis response, and national security. After decades of leadership in high-stakes environments, Eric launched **Focal Point Coaching** to focus on what mattered most to him throughout his career: **helping people and organizations build resilience in the face of change and adversity**. Through executive coaching and team development, Eric helps leaders move from survival mode into what he calls **“BEAST mode”** — prepared, confident, and proactive. His exclusive resilience-focused coaching framework supports leadership, teams, processes, culture, and cyber readiness before a crisis occurs. **Where Eric Is Seeking Community Feedback** * How do you effectively market **resilience preparation** *before* a critical incident occurs? * What helps leaders and business owners clearly understand the **ROI of resilience coaching**? * How can resilience training be integrated into the flow of **normal business operations**? * What motivates leaders to prepare mentally and emotionally for the inevitable challenges of business? **Who Should Attend** Eric is especially eager to connect with: * Small to mid-sized business owners in the **hospitality industry** * Leaders responsible for teams, culture, and operations * Entrepreneurs experienced in scaling service-based businesses * Anyone interested in leadership, preparedness, and sustainable growth Come ready to listen, learn, and offer meaningful insight to support a founder building something impactful. ### What Is 1 Million Cups? 1 Million Cups is a national program powered by the Kauffman Foundation that brings together entrepreneurs and community members for weekly conversations that educate, support, and inspire. Loudoun’s chapter meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of each month. Join us on **January 14 at 9:00 AM** for coffee, connection, and a meaningful conversation about reimagining after-school education in Loudoun County. **We look forward to seeing you there.**

Join us for an evening of networking and insightful discussions at our Cigars & Startups Networking Night, hosted by Cigars and Startups DC. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur, a startup enthusiast, or a tech aficionado, this event is the perfect opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals. We'll have premium cigars, drinks and talk about the exciting topics of entrepreneurship, securing venture capital funding, and the intersection of technology startups and the cigar industry. Sip on fine drinks, enjoy premium cigars, and engage in lively conversations with fellow guests who share your passion for entrepreneurship and innovation. Whether you're looking to expand your professional network, seek investment opportunities, or simply unwind after a long day, this event promises to offer a unique blend of business insights and leisure. Don't miss out on this exclusive chance to mingle with the brightest minds in the startup ecosystem while enjoying the finer things in life. Thanks to our sponsors @Hunter from Next.Law, @Richard from Ashira Finanical and @Andrew from Zccounting.com Note: Because my company (Zccounting) is a bookkeeping and accounting firm, not a licensed tobacco dealer I will not be selling cigars and your ticket only includes "entry" to the VIP lounge and event, however, I'm super generous and will share as many cigars as you can smoke at the event from my personal collection for no fee whatsoever!

## **1 Million Cups Loudoun Workshop: How AI Can Work for Your Business** **Wednesday\, January 28 \| 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM** **Venture X Loudoun – Ashburn** Artificial Intelligence is no longer just a buzzword — it’s a practical tool that businesses of all sizes can begin using today. Join **1 Million Cups Loudoun** for a special **workshop-style presentation** led by **Victor Meer of AI Prime** and **Jay Jay Billings of Band Gap AI**, designed to help entrepreneurs understand how AI can realistically support their business operations. This workshop will provide: * A clear, practical overview of what AI actually is * Real-world examples of how businesses are using AI today * Insight into where automation can save time and reduce friction * Guidance on how to start leveraging AI without needing technical expertise Whether you’re AI-curious, overwhelmed by the noise, or ready to explore automation in your business, this session will help you think clearly about where AI fits — and where it doesn’t. As always, coffee, conversation, and community are at the heart of 1 Million Cups Loudoun. ### What Is 1 Million Cups? 1 Million Cups is a national program powered by the Kauffman Foundation that brings together entrepreneurs and community members for weekly conversations that educate, support, and inspire. Loudoun’s chapter meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of each month. Join us on **January 14 at 9:00 AM** for coffee, connection, and a meaningful conversation about reimagining after-school education in Loudoun County. **We look forward to seeing you there.**

## 💻 Reimagine Your Second Half of Life – AI Vision Board Workshop (Ashburn) **Saturday\, January 17\, 2026 \| 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM \| $35** *** ### 🔔 **Important Event Format Notice** To keep this workshop intentional and high-quality: • **5+ participants** → Hosted at a rented facility • **Under 5 participants** → **Private small-group workshop** ✨ *Workshop content, duration, and outcomes remain the same.* *** ## ☀️ **Design What Comes Next** ✨ **A Different Kind of Experience** 👉 **Most people don’t expect this to feel so personal.** The AI doesn’t just generate ideas — it reflects your own thinking back to you in a way that creates real clarity. 👉 **Even people who already use ChatGPT are often pleasantly caught off guard.** When paired with the right prompts and guided reflection, the insights go much deeper than typical goal-setting or vision work. 👉 **There’s often a quiet “oh wow” moment.** Not because it’s flashy — but because something finally clicks into place. You’ve lived enough life to know that success isn’t about doing more — it’s about doing what matters. ### 3-Part Session **1️⃣ Discover & Design** Learn simple AI tools and a practical framework to clarify your 2026 vision and priorities. **2️⃣ Create & Collaborate** Design your personalized AI-powered vision board with guided prompts and small-group reflection. **☕ Short Refreshment Break** Coffee and curated snacks to reset and recharge. **3️⃣ Align & Act** Map your next 3, 6, and 12 months with realistic action steps — individually or with group support. You’ll also learn how to: * Use ChatGPT to clarify goals and affirmations * Turn ideas into effective AI prompts * Create a digital or printable vision board that inspires action * Stay intentional and motivated throughout the year 👉 No AI experience necessary — just bring curiosity, a laptop, and an open mind. *** ## 💻 What to Bring * **Laptop required** (AI tools don’t work well on tablets) * ChatGPT account (free version is fine) 👉 Please set this up before the event. Message me after you RSVP if you need help. *** ## ☕ What’s Included * Guided AI Vision Board workshop (full experience) * Coffee and curated snacks * Small-group collaboration and discussion * All digital tools, prompts, and resources *** ## 💬 Who This Is For * Professionals planning a strong 2026 * Entrepreneurs mapping their next chapter * Anyone navigating life transitions — career, relationships, reinvention * People curious about AI but unsure where to start * Anyone who enjoys learning, connecting, and gaining clarity This community is about learning while having fun — no jargon, no pressure, just real conversation and clarity that lasts. *** ## 📍 Final Details 📍 **Location:** Ashburn area (final location shared after RSVP) 💵 **Fee:** $35 per person 🕐 **Time:** 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM 👩‍💻 **Bring:** Laptop + ChatGPT account ready *** 🔗 **RSVP early — space is intentionally limited.** Come reimagine your second half of life — with a little help from AI and a lot of inspiration 🌟 🌐 Explore more at: [https://midlifereinvention.co](https://midlifereinvention.co)