CEOs & Founders

Come assist Van Buren Shelter (https://ymcacolumbus.org/locations/vanburen) staff in serving dinners and cleaning up on the 3rd Tuesday of each month. Dinner for the women is 5-6 pm and for the families is 6:15-7:15 pm. There is ample free parking available in the shelter's lot. The recommended area to park is in green in the image above. There will be a new entrance for the time being. We are asking all volunteers to enter through the Donation Dock door, the orange mark on the image above. This door is located between the Single Adults and Family Shelter. You will see 2 large garage doors with a large green trash compactor in the center. Please head to the closest garage door to the building wall, with a ramp leading up. There, you will see a door with a sign stating instructions on how to enter the building. Please ring the doorbell, and a staff member will come and escort you into the building. If a staff member takes longer than 5 minutes, please call the front desk at 614-689-2020. This is a new process for us, and we do not want to keep you waiting! We appreciate your patience as we navigate this temporary change. The shelter needs a volunteer count the day before the event so sign-up ends Monday at 4:50 PM. Afterwards some of us go to the Omnipresent Atheists Weekly Meetup in progress to have a bit to eat or drink (http://www.meetup.com/omnipresentatheists/). Volunteers must be 14 or older. Since we will be working around families, the YMCA does not permit volunteering by individuals with convictions for violent or sexual crimes. The YMCA reserves the right to run background checks on volunteers. For questions, comment on this page or contact: Andrew, awhit12@yahoo.com, (614)937-5802 (cell). Please let Andrew know if you volunteer anytime other than our COUNT events so that he can count your hours toward our service record.

**Building a great product is one thing—building momentum behind it is another.** Join **Senior Product Manager Adam Solaiman** and **User Experience Manager Tyson Smith** for a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to turn complex ideas into scalable products inside large organizations. In this session, they’ll share how teams move from ambiguity to execution—navigating organizational complexity, aligning stakeholders, and continuously evolving products after launch. You’ll walk away with insights on how to: * Build and sustain momentum across teams * Adapt to changing priorities without losing direction * Scale products thoughtfully in complex environments Whether you're driving a new initiative or growing an existing product, this conversation will give you practical strategies to keep things moving forward. Come connect, learn, and swap stories with fellow product professionals. \-\-\- Food and drinks will be provided by Switchbox, our generous host. Free parking will be available at the front and back sides of the Switchbox Office.

Customer identity resolution becomes increasingly complex as organizations scale across multiple systems, regions, and data formats. Traditional rule-based approaches often fail to keep up with data variability, require constant manual tuning, and struggle with real-time processing needs. This session presents a practical approach to building a scalable identity resolution pipeline using AWS services and modern AI techniques. The architecture combines data ingestion through Amazon S3 and AWS Glue, transformation pipelines using Spark on EMR, and machine learning models deployed via SageMaker for entity matching and standardization. Graph-based relationship modeling is implemented using Amazon Neptune to improve resolution accuracy by incorporating household and shared attribute context. We will walk through how machine learning models can be used for name and address normalization, how intelligent blocking strategies improve matching efficiency, and how feedback loops can be introduced to continuously improve accuracy. The session also highlights how serverless components such as AWS Lambda can be used for orchestration and real-time processing. **SPEAKER BIO** Mosaic Syed is a Senior Data Engineering and Cloud Solutions Architect with over 20 years of experience designing and delivering scalable, secure, and high-performance data solutions across global enterprise environments. https://www.linkedin.com/in/mosaic-basha-syed-92300856 **CALL FOR SPEAKERS** Learn more: [https://www.awscolumbus.com/get-involved/](https://www.awscolumbus.com/get-involved/) **THANK YOU** *VEEAM* for hosting our meetup! To learn more about *Veeam*, please visit their website: [https://www.veeam.com/](https://www.veeam.com/) **DIRECTIONS** 8800 Lyra Dr #450 · Columbus, OH go to 4th floor. **Want to sponsor the pizza and/or bar tab?** Please contact me if you would like to sponsor this meetup's pizza and/or bar tab: angelo@mandato.com

Join the Columbus AI community for our quarterly gathering — a casual, community-focused evening where everyone has a chance to share, learn, and connect. These open mic–style events give anyone in the community up to **5 minutes** to present a project, share a tool, pose a question, or offer a perspective on the evolving AI space. No slides required — just a welcoming space to exchange ideas and keep the local AI conversation moving. If you’d like to take the stage, message \*\*Chris (the organizer)\*\*with a **title and short description** of what you’d like to share. Whether you’re deep in the field or just getting curious, come connect with others building and exploring AI in Columbus. Sponsored by [Transform Labs](https://www.linkedin.com/company/transformlabs/) Sign up also accessible via [Transform Labs Luma](https://luma.com/transformlabshq)

The Unity of Columbus Resource Group for the Homeless is seeking compassionate volunteers who would like to help serve and uplift members of our homeless community. This group is dedicated to sharing kindness, resources, and support with individuals who may be experiencing difficult circumstances. Anyone with a heart for service is welcome to join us as we work together to make a positive difference in the lives of others. Community members are also invited to contribute by bringing helpful items for those in need. Donations of items can be contributed at the meeting and will be distributed to assist members of the homeless community. Please consider joining us and sharing this opportunity with friends, family, or associates who may also wish to help. Learn more about Unity of Columbus at www.unityofcolumbus.org or call (614) 267-4959. Together we can extend compassion, dignity, and support to our community. 💛

Please reserve your spot by registering on the below link : **Reserve** https://www.eventbrite.com/e/join-biggest-community-investors-founders-columbus-online-tickets-1988563717610?aff=meetup **QUESTIONS ?** Pls Reach out to; Ridhi - +971504724873 ( WhatsApp Only)

Newark Area Traders and Exchangers Please join us! You won't want to miss this meeting! We have new investor topics every week. Finally, we will go over properties for sale, needs, and wants. Please carve out time to come join us Friday at 8 a.m. EST Don't forget to like us on Facebook, Newark Area Traders and Exchangers. NEWARK AREA TRADE & EXCHANGERS 975 Mt. Vernon Rd. (Entry at the front doors) Newark, OH 43055 Dues are $5 minimum per person, per week. Part of this goes to our treasurer to fund the meeting and the balance to the church for the use of their room. “Opportunity for Generosity”! Founders: Gerald DePalmo and Furman Tinon (and others) Established 60 +/- years ago and still going strong! Zoom meeting. Topic: NEWARK AREA TRADE & EXCHANGERS Time: 08:00 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada) Please download and import the following iCalendar (.ics) files to your calendar system. Weekly: [https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/tZcrfuuoqTMvH9Ox4pAJb3wmj1KuwP_Vuylj/ics?icsToken=98tyKuGrqDIoGtOdtRyARpwqBIr4a_TwtlxYgvpyhEv1IgpRMRT7PLNpJ6VPL-7F](https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/tZcrfuuoqTMvH9Ox4pAJb3wmj1KuwP_Vuylj/ics?icsToken=98tyKuGrqDIoGtOdtRyARpwqBIr4a_TwtlxYgvpyhEv1IgpRMRT7PLNpJ6VPL-7F) Join Zoom Meeting [https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83692078557?pwd=OXNKVGk4alRPNG1BdlNhdFNDQTFSUT09](https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83692078557?pwd=OXNKVGk4alRPNG1BdlNhdFNDQTFSUT09) Meeting ID: 836 9207 8557 Passcode: 215853 One tap mobile +13462487799,,83692078557#,,,,\*215853# US (Houston) +16699006833,,83692078557#,,,,\*215853# US (San Jose) Dial by your location +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston) +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose) +1 929 205 6099 US (New York) +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma) +1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC) +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago) Meeting ID: 836 9207 8557 Passcode: 215853 Find your local number: [https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kc1yVEZLS1](https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kc1yVEZLS1)

**PLEASE BUY TICKETS THROUGH EVENTBRITE. RSVP THROUGH MEETUP IS NOT A TICKET PURCHASE CONFIRMATION.** Strive welcomes you to 'General Business Networking', Columbus' hottest networking event! We are set in the perfect central location in Downtown for all to join. Are you interested in business? Want to elevate your career? Meet Consultants, Analysts of all types, Bankers, Software Engineers, Entrepreneurs, and more who are active in the space or are eager to get started. **\*\*This will be a multi-vertical event\*\*** **There will be professionals with backgrounds in the arts, finance, tech, real estate, healthcare, and more. Come with an open mind, and leave with connections that wouldn't be possible otherwise!** Pack some business cards and come with an open mind! Meet your future business partners, employers, coworkers, investors, and friends. You don't want to miss this opportunity to expand your network and create a brighter future. We will have a space for our event to check-in. The event will go from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM (feel free to come at any point in this timeframe). Name tags will be provided. Business casual dress code. Job fair attire. **Remember, it's not who you know, it's who you meet tomorrow!** We look forward to meeting you at the event! Sincerely, Strive Networking Team *Refund requests are permitted up to 24 hours after purchase, so long as we are not within 48 hours before the event start time. Refunds will be made in full and repaid to your method of payment. Note that we are unable to reimburse PayPal fees.* *Disclaimer: By attending Strive Networking events you agree to photos/videos taken during the event being used to promote future events.*

NFT's are here to stay folks! This is a group for like minded people interested in understanding, leveraging, using, creating for, profiting from, trading too i suppose, NFT's.. everything around them, complexity, fear and exploits, best practices and more. **PLUS** This group will talk AI ART tools, techniques, artists, video, audio, prototypes and more in the AI assisted production space- ART specifically, but we can get into any aspect of some of the cooler things happening in AI in general.

Bring your business cards and network in person with other business professionals! Gold Star Referral Clubs is one of the most established professional networking organizations in the country, with multiple groups in central Ohio. Join us!

**To reserve your spot for this event go here --> https://luma.com/8yl7hchk** This event is sure to max out so reserve your spot today and learn the venue after registration. Black Tech Week is pulling up to Columbus and we want you there! On May 20th, we're bringing together entrepreneurs, builders, innovators, and changemakers for a night of real conversation about tech, business, and what it takes to create something that lasts. Whether you're deep in a startup, exploring your next move, or just hungry to connect with people who are actually doing the work, this is your evening. ​Black Tech Week is a movement dedicated to celebrating and amplifying Black innovators and entrepreneurs across tech and beyond. This Columbus meetup is one stop on a much bigger journey, and the energy we build in rooms like this one is exactly what fuels that mission. Expect good vibes, genuine connections, and conversations that go beyond small talk. ​Doors open at 5:30 PM, so come ready to mix, mingle, and leave with a few new contacts and maybe a few new ideas. Spots go fast, so lock yours in now and we will see you there.

## Candle Making Night at The Arcane Foundry \| Design Your Own Custom Candle **SPECIAL PROMOTION**: Buy 3 and get 1 Free! Step into The Arcane Foundry and create your own custom candle from start to finish. This is a laid back, hands-on experience where **you’ll blend fragrances, choose your vessel, and pour your own candle using 100% soy wax**. Whether you’re coming solo or with friends, it’s designed to be simple, creative, and a good time. We’ll walk you through the entire process, from picking your scents to choosing between a traditional cotton wick or a crackling wood wick. You can go with one fragrance or mix your own blend to create something completely unique**. No experience needed**, just show up and we’ll handle the rest. While your candle sets, feel free to hang out, play a game, explore the shop, or just relax and talk. Drinks and snacks are available, and the atmosphere leans into the **fantasy**, **dark academia**, and **gothic horror** vibe The Arcane Foundry is known for. Learn More: [Candle Making in Columbus, Ohio at The Arcane Foundry](https://thearcanefoundry.com/candle-making/) *** ### What to Expect: * Guided candle making experience * Choose your own vessel, wax, wick, and fragrance * 100% soy wax candles * Optional drinks and snacks * Time to relax while your candle cools *** ### Important Notes: * Please arrive on time so we can start together * Candles will need time to set before taking home * This is a beginner-friendly event *** ### RSVP Required Reserve your spot on Meetup to lock in your seat. **Candle Making** (includes vessel, your choice of wick, wax, scented oil, labels and lids) 5oz Glass Jars $15 8oz Candle Tins $25 12oz Glass Candles $35 12oz Amber Jars $40 16 oz Skull or Jack o Lantern Candle Mugs $65 (Limited Edition!) **All materials included. You just bring yourself (and your drink of choice).** **Payments accepted:** * Credit Card * Venmo: @Daclaud-Lee * Cashapp: $DaclaudL

[ECDI Pop-Up Market Official Registration Site --> https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ecdi-pop-up-market-tickets-1986071755083](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ecdi-pop-up-market-tickets-1986071755083) Celebrate Small Business Month by shopping local for food, drinks, and handcrafted gifts! Join us for the ECDI Pop‑Up Market, a celebration of local entrepreneurs during Small Business Month. Explore delicious food and drinks, discover handcrafted goods, and shop unique items from small businesses in your community. Whether you’re looking to support local makers, discover new favorites, or pick up a thoughtful gift, this market has something for everyone. **What you’ll find at the market:** * Local food and beverage vendors * Handcrafted goods and unique gifts * A chance to meet and support small business owners in your community * An easy, fun way to discover new local favorites [SCORE Central Ohio](https://www.score.org/ "https://www.score.org/") will also be on site to talk about their small business mentorship program. **Market Vendors:** Baked Goods * Shante Makes Body Care * [Bellas Natural Beauty Products](https://www.facebook.com/Bellasnaturalbeautyprod/ "https://www.facebook.com/Bellasnaturalbeautyprod/") Clothing & Accessories * [The Krafted Kollection](https://www.thekraftedkollection.com/ "https://www.thekraftedkollection.com") * [Loayza Elegant Jewelry](https://www.loayzaelegantjewelry.com/ "https://www.loayzaelegantjewelry.com/") * [Swahili House 254](https://www.swahilihouse254.com/ "https://www.swahilihouse254.com") Food/Beverage * [Aqua Pure Central Ohio](https://aquapurecentralohio.com/ "https://aquapurecentralohio.com") * [Better Beverage](https://betterbevshop.com/ "https://betterbevshop.com") * [Cherays Banana Pudding](https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567527322952 "https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567527322952") * [Dr. May's Thai Kitchen](https://www.drmaysthaikitchen.com/menu "https://www.drmaysthaikitchen.com/menu") * [Kronchy LLC](https://www.kronchys.com/ "https://www.kronchys.com") * [Terra Mezcal Mexican Grill](https://terra%20mezcal%20mexican%20grill/ "https://Terra Mezcal Mexican Grill") Packaged Food * [Grow to Eat, Eat to Live](https://growtoeattolive.com/ "https://growtoeattolive.com/") * [Underworld Feast](https://underworldfeast.com/ "https://underworldfeast.com/")  Since 2004, ECDI has assisted Ohio’s entrepreneurs through their one-stop-shop business services model, suited to meet the needs of all entrepreneurs, regardless of what business stage they’re in. From providing capital to entrepreneurs looking to expand their businesses, to providing focused, business-specific educational opportunities to enhance entrepreneurial skill sets, ECDI works with their clients to meet their specific needs. Whether you merely have a business idea or are opening up your fifth location, we have helped more than 15,000 entrepreneurs to take advantage of the services we provide.

Get ready to connect, collaborate, and grow your community at the ***Smashing Your Sales Goals (SYSG) Spring Meet-N-Greet!*** *Smash Nation*— a vibrant and welcoming community for creative consultants, social innovators, professional service providers, entrepreneur support professionals, and the small business ecosystem builders —invites you to join in welcoming the Spring 2026 Cohort of dedicated business owners ready to take their venture to the next level. Join ***SYSG*** cohort members, trainers, sponsors, and partners for an engaging and interactive networking experience. This isn't just another meet-and-greet; it's a dynamic opportunity to gather, strengthen relationships, and actively brainstorm business development opportunities in a relaxed and supportive environment. Come ready to: * ***Connect*** with key players and potential collaborators in the small business community. * ***Share*** your successes, challenges, and insights with peers. * ***Brainstorm*** innovative strategies for sales and business growth. * ***Discover*** new partnerships and future partners. Let's amplify our collective impact and smash those sales goals together! **Who Should Attend:** Spring, Summer, and Fall 2025 Cohort Members, Spring 2026 Cohort members, Trainers, Facilitators, Program Sponsors, Future Sponsors, Velocity Applicants, and Program Partners. **When**: Tuesday, May 26, 2926 **Where**: Warner Wood Park and Pavilion [4747 Central College Road, Columbus, OH 43081](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Warner+Woods+Park+%26+Pavilion/@40.0999435,-82.8601323,839m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m6!3m5!1s0x88385f0025d4381b:0xc15eb51285691f4f!8m2!3d40.1002108!4d-82.8612015!16s%2Fg%2F11wb2pg50g?authuser=0&entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTAwNS4yIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) **Time**: 4pm-6pm [To Officially Register Go To --> https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/form/W0CGLL8jvz4EkLNK5jav?notrack=true](https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/form/W0CGLL8jvz4EkLNK5jav?notrack=true) Meet ***Smashing Your Sales Goals*** expert trainers, sales coaches, community supporters and partners. Learn more about upcoming SYSG events, trainings coaching opportunities to help take your business from surviving to thriving today! This event is FREE and OPEN to the PUBLIC!

Have a small business? Ever wish you could just ask some questions around how to grow your business, get more customers or just know what the freak you are doing with sales? Now is your chance!! Every month we are hosting the "Ask an Expert" at the Columbus Metro Library, Main campus. I will be there to answer your Sales related questions. Drop-in for sales coaching designed to help small business owners, entrepreneurs, and sales professionals sharpen their sales approach. Whether you have questions on how to refine your pitch, are looking to close deals more quickly, or are working on building better client relationships, Smashing Your Sales Goals Coaches are here to help. Drop-in to get expert insights, actionable strategies and real-time solutions to grow your business and generate higher profits. Drop-In Sales Coaching is FREE + OPEN to the public. No appointment needed. First come, first served. EPIC Learning created. Accelerate Columbus supported.

**Important time note:** Please plan on arriving between 5:30 and 6:00 as the elevators lock after 6 and you'll need to message us and we'll need to come get you. The building address is 4450 Bridge Park The entrance is 6620 Mooney St, Suite 400 You will need to scan your ID at the door to get a visitor badge. **Abstract** TBD **YouTube Link** TBD