Innovation

### **Where Dubai’s AI Innovators, Operators, and Talent Meet to Build the Future** Are you building in AI? Launching a tech startup? Exploring how AI can transform your business or job? Or looking to join the next big thing in AI? Join **AI Builders & Business Connect**, a **founder-first, operator-focused meetup** for Dubai’s tech and AI community. This isn’t your typical networking mixer—it’s a room full of **people building**, **people hiring**, and **people looking to grow**. *** ## **🗓️ Event Details** **When: 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM (Sharp) - Every Thursday** **Where:** Coffee & Sundries, First Floor (Above Carrefour), DIFC, Dubai **Entry: FREE**— we just ask that you support the venue by purchasing a coffee or some food. *** ## **🚀 What to Expect** This is for **doers, decision-makers, and tech talent ready to build:** ### **🔹 AI 60-Second Spotlight** Founders, job seekers, and partners get **60 seconds to introduce themselves**—no slides, no fluff. ### **🔹 Speed Collaboration Rounds** Quick, curated connections between **builders, investors, operators, and AI talent**. ### **🔹 Real Conversations, Real Opportunities** Whether you’re hiring, raising, building, or job hunting—this is where partnerships start. ### **🔹 Dubai & UAE Playbook** Hear practical tips from locals on how to **launch, hire, and scale tech ventures in the region.** *** ### 📋 Agenda * **7:30 – 8:00 PM** Introductions * **8:00 – 8:45 PM** Market research using different AI tools * **8:45 – 9:15 PM** Prototyping session on one selected idea * **9:15 PM onward** Networking ## **💡 Who Should Attend?** * **AI Founders & Startup Builders** * **Tech Entrepreneurs & SaaS Leaders** * **Investors scouting AI deals** * **Engineers, Developers & Product Leaders working in AI** * **Job Seekers & Operators looking to join AI and tech startups** * **Enterprise Innovators exploring AI use cases** *** ## **⚠️ Important** * **Your RSVP is a commitment**—let us know 24 hours in advance if plans change * **Doors close at 7:30 PM sharp**—no late entries *** ## **🌍 Hosted by Pradeep Valat** Startup advisor, investor, and AI business strategist helping founders unlock growth. LinkedIn: [linkedin.com/in/ivallat](https://linkedin.com/in/ivallat) WhatsApp: +971 529503315 *** ## **🔥 Why This Event?** Dubai’s AI and tech scene is booming—but it’s still about **who you know and who you build with.** This is where **startups meet talent, investors meet ideas, and builders find partners.** **Spots are limited. If you’re serious about AI, this is your room.** **By participating in AI Builders & Business Connect \| events\, you consent to the use of photos and videos captured during the event for promotional purposes\.**

We’re excited to announce that we’ll be hosting our Iftar & Dinner Buffet this Thursday, 26th Feb from 6PM onwards at Malang Café & Restaurant, Business Bay. Whatsapp: https://chat.whatsapp.com/CMGVetRA5WJ1ad2DaSC9Kk?mode=gi_t Buffet Price: 75 AED per head After Iftar, we’ll unwind with a quick game night session, featuring: •⁠ ⁠Secret Hitler •⁠ ⁠Codenames •⁠ ⁠One Night Werewolf •⁠ ⁠Bluff Join us for an evening of great food, strong conversations, and classic strategy games with fellow guild members. Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/JFcwkV77Lmednavi6?g_st=ipc Don’t miss this unique Blackfyr gathering. Unwind. Play. Connect.

This is a paid event Ticket Link: https://allevents.in/dubai/80002979926478?aff_id=u5zt4r&ref=sharer GLOBAL STARTUPS CLUB STARTUP NETWORKING Dubai 2026 Innovate. Network. Execute. WHAT YOU GAIN FROM THE MEET? \* Networking accesses \* Networking games \* 30-sec Elevator Pitch for Startups Introducing the Global Startups Club in Dubai – a dynamic networking community fueled by 3X Events Mojo Capital 100x Brands Gamezon and Bon Conseil. This exclusive club will meet monthly providing a platform for talented founders experts consultants influential leaders and startup professionals to connect and collaborate. Our mission is to foster a thriving business community through a carefully curated 2.5-hour offline event where members can showcase their ventures and drive meaningful conversations. In Dubai the club will host monthly meetings designed to help you expand your network and enhance your business prospects. The ecosystem brings together Founders VCs Directors Power Networkers and Consultants creating meaningful connections and collaboration opportunities. For Partnerships Sponsorships and Ticketing queries contact: WhatsApp Only \- \+971 585797400 Mohit Sureka \(Dubai UAE\) \| Email id : [brands@globalstartups.club](https://allevents.in/dubai/global-startups-club-startup-networking-dubai-2026-tickets/80002979926478#) \| [connect@mohitsureka.com](https://allevents.in/dubai/global-startups-club-startup-networking-dubai-2026-tickets/80002979926478#)

**REGISTRATION THROUGH WHATSAPP : 0552176382** Looking to kick a ball around and have fun? Join us for a friendly game of football! Whether you're a seasoned player or just getting started, all skill levels are welcome. This event is perfect for players who want to improve their fitness while enjoying a social game of football in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. We cater to all types of players, from experienced footballers to beginners who want to learn and have fun. Our group is all about providing a positive and inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome. Join us on the pitch and let's have some fun together! As always, we will be playing outdoors, so please remember to bring appropriate footwear, comfortable athletic clothing, and water to stay hydrated. Don't miss out on a great opportunity to meet new people, get in some exercise, and indulge your love for the beautiful game. See you on the field!

📣 **Meetup Event Downtown Chapter)** **🏷️ Title:** *Dubai Syndicate · Fahidi Chapter (Free Entry)* RSVP https://wa.me/971557133786?text=Hello%20Sir%2FMam%2C%20I%20am%20%5BYour%20Name%5D%2C%20Owner%2FDecision%20Maker%20of%20%5BYour%20Company%5D.%20I%E2%80%99d%20like%20to%20join%20Dubai%20Syndicate%20to%20network%20with%20other%20business%20owners%2C%20share%20leads%20and%20references%2C%20and%20help%20one%20another%C2%A0grow%C2%A0together. www.dubaisyndicate.ae **📍 When & Where** ⏰ **Time:** **4.30 PM – 7:00 PM** *(🚪 doors open **4:30 PM** — check-in & early intros)* 🏢 **Venue:** VB World Restaurant, Al Fahidi ( Sharaf DG ) 🗺️ **Google Maps:** https://maps.app.goo.gl/L14T6yjjgPdF1D5W7 **👥 Who:** Entrepreneurs • Investors • Deal-makers • Service Providers **✨ Why come ):** ✅ **Real intros, not speed networking** — you’ll leave **knowing everyone** in the room. 🤝 **Peer introductions** — returning members introduce people they already know; 🌟 **new attendees** introduce themselves. 🎯 **Warm, curated connections** — meet partners, clients, and collaborators. **🧭 Flow** 🕟 **4:30–5:00** — Doors open, check-in, name tags 🕔 **5:00–5:30** — Peer introductions + new attendee intros *(Offer & Ask)* 🔗 **5:30–6:45** — Open networking & curated matches 📝 **6:45–7:00** — Wrap-ups & next steps **🧾 Bring:** 🪪 Business cards • ✍️ 1 clear **Offer** • 🎯 1 clear **Ask** **👔 Dress:** Smart casual **💸 Fees:** **Free entry** *(☕🍵🥤🍽️ Buy your own tea/coffee/Drinks /Food and support venue providers)* **📝 RSVP ( Compulsory ):** 🟢 On Meetup: tap **Attend** 💬 Or in WhatsApp Community: post **“ATTENDING – Name \| Company \| Offer \| Ask”** **📲 Stay connected (always include these):** 👉 **WhatsApp Community:** https://wa.me/971557133786 📸 **Instagram:** [https://www.instagram.com/dubaisyndicate](https://www.instagram.com/dubaisyndicateoffical) **⚖️ House rules:** 🤝 Give-first • 🚫 No hard selling • 🔒 Share contacts only with consent

Let's Step away from screens and step into real conversations. Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/wa-coffee)** ​We’re hosting a **special coffee meetup** to meet new people, spark genuine connections, and share laughter in an **elegant café setting** 🌿🎶 **​Imagine this 👇** * ​A cozy evening with soft music playing in the background. * ​An elegant café atmosphere with warm lighting and stylish décor. * ​Coffee, tea, or your favorite drink in hand. * ​A room full of open-minded, amazing people ready to connect. It’s about **meeting new friends**, enjoying great vibes, and discovering the magic of spontaneous connection. Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/wa-coffee)** ​Because sometimes, all it takes is a cup of coffee to turn strangers into friends. 💫 **​✨ Expect the unexpected:** * ​Fun conversation starters that keep things flowing. * ​Stories from people you never imagined you’d meet. * ​Surprising laughter that carries long after the night is over. ​So grab your favorite drink, take a seat, and let the conversations flow. **Registration** ✅ RSVP on Meetup. ✅ [Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/wa-coffee) *Just like any event, slots are limited. RSVP and complete your registration at the earliest.* Happy Coffee 😊

Let's Step away from screens and step into real conversations. Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/wa-coffee)** ​We’re hosting a **special coffee meetup** to meet new people, spark genuine connections, and share laughter in an **elegant café setting** 🌿🎶 **​Imagine this 👇** * ​A cozy evening with soft music playing in the background. * ​An elegant café atmosphere with warm lighting and stylish décor. * ​Coffee, tea, or your favorite drink in hand. * ​A room full of open-minded, amazing people ready to connect. It’s about **meeting new friends**, enjoying great vibes, and discovering the magic of spontaneous connection. Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/wa-coffee)** ​Because sometimes, all it takes is a cup of coffee to turn strangers into friends. 💫 **​✨ Expect the unexpected:** * ​Fun conversation starters that keep things flowing. * ​Stories from people you never imagined you’d meet. * ​Surprising laughter that carries long after the night is over. ​So grab your favorite drink, take a seat, and let the conversations flow. **Registration** ✅ RSVP on Meetup. ✅ [Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/wa-coffee) *Just like any event, slots are limited. RSVP and complete your registration at the earliest.* Happy Coffee 😊

**Come for Networking. Stay for the Music 🎶** Join us for an unforgettable evening where innovation meets elegance at our exclusive Tech Industry Night. **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile)](https://jo.my/tech-whatsapp-meetup)** Network with fellow tech enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders in a sophisticated setting before transitioning into a lively afterparty with a live DJ. **🏛️ Elegant Networking** Step into an ambiance of sophistication and style as we gather in a stunning venue designed to inspire. Enjoy the perfect backdrop for meaningful conversations and professional connections with some of the brightest minds in the tech industry. **[REGISTRATION HERE IS MANDATORY](https://jo.my/tech-event-meetup)** **🤝 Connection Opportunities** Engage in stimulating discussions, share insights, and exchange ideas with fellow tech community members. Whether you're looking to find potential collaborators, seek advice, or explore new opportunities, this event is tailored to foster valuable relationships. **📸 Photo Opportunities** Capture the essence of the evening with professional photo opportunities set against elegant backdrops. Document your night of networking and celebration with fellow tech enthusiasts. **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile)](https://jo.my/tech-whatsapp-meetup)** **🎧 Afterparty with Live DJ** As the evening progresses, transition seamlessly from professional networking to party mode. Our live DJ will set the stage with an electrifying mix of music, ensuring the dance floor stays vibrant and energetic. Celebrate the connections made and enjoy the night in full swing. **👔👗 Dress Code: Smart Casual** Reflect the event's blend of professionalism and relaxation with smart casual attire. Feel confident and comfortable as you network and dance the night away. **[REGISTRATION HERE IS MANDATORY](https://jo.my/tech-event-meetup)** **Join us for a night where technology, networking, and celebration converge in an elegant setting.** Whether you're looking to expand your network, find inspiration, or simply enjoy a sophisticated evening with fellow tech enthusiasts, Tech Industry Night is the event for you. We look forward to welcoming you to a night of innovation and celebration! **[=== <<< REGISTER NOW >>> ===](https://jo.my/tech-event-meetup)** **How many people attend?** We get 100 people on average in all our events and invite our members on Meetup and other platforms. Members of other groups who RSVP are included as guests to give an idea of expected numbers. **Registration** ✅ RSVP on Meetup. ✅ [Complete your registration HERE](https://jo.my/tech-event-meetup) *Just like any event, slots are limited. RSVP and complete your registration at the earliest.* Happy Networking 😊 📍 **Get location map and parking instructions** [Join our WhatsApp group (Tech Industry Meetup)](https://jo.my/tech-whatsapp-meetup) 👨‍👧‍👦 **Meet community members** [Join our Facebook group (Cocktails & Connections)](https://www.facebook.com/groups/cocktailsnconnections) **Check our events #InstaPhotos** [📷 Follow us on Instagram (@cocktails.connections)](https://www.instagram.com/cocktails.connections/)

Have you ever dreamed of being part of the early dot-com energy — when ideas were raw, ambitious, and conversations could spark entire movements? Welcome to House of Thinking Big: Ideas × Coffee — inspired by the spirit of early founder circles, when bold ideas spoke louder than decks. We gather a small circle of creative and tech leaders who think beyond borders, value authenticity and intelligent dialogue, and believe that growth begins with people and their ideas. No presentations. No ads. Just caffeine-fueled thinking. ☕ When: 6:30 PM 📍 Where: Starbucks, Emirates Towers Boulevard, Dubai 🎙️ Host: Kate Adiyak — Founder of House of Thinking Big Join the House and think bigger — together. Thinking Big Strategy Timeline 6:30 PM — Arrival & Networking 7:00 PM — Personal Problem Statement 7:30 PM — Resource Mapping 7:50 PM — Action Planning 8:00 PM — Closing No rush — Dubai traffic does Dubai traffic things. Join whenever you manage to escape the roads You will find me with a laptop and a cup of coffee [To keep in touch join my WhatsApp group ](https://chat.whatsapp.com/Lnu5UhRArdXJTengnhqLhB?mode=hqrt3)

Beginners plus and above Badminton Queuing - 35 AED per head

**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/)

Come for Networking. Stay for the Music 🎶 Step into the spotlight at this Marketing Industry Night, a networking event for marketing leaders. Register and get more details! **[Join our WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/marketing-whatsapp-meetup)** Connect with fellow marketing leaders, industry experts and influencers, and marketing mavens in a friendly and fun environment 🤝🏻 **🤝 Networking Opportunities** Join us for an evening of sophistication and connection, where professionals will have the exclusive opportunity to network, meet fellow marketing leaders, and forge invaluable connections that drive marketing innovation and excellence. Whether you're seeking new career opportunities, strategic partnerships, or simply looking to exchange insights and best practices, this event provides the perfect platform to make valuable connections that drive success. Register and get more details! **[Join our WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/marketing-whatsapp-meetup)** **🌟 Marketing Insights** Gain exclusive insights and inspiration to the latest trends, strategies, and innovations shaping the future of marketing, and learn how to leverage these insights to stay ahead of the curve and drive growth in your organization. **Join an evening where nobody left behind, stand on the side or feels lonely.** Have a friendly chat while sipping your favorite drink, and still make meaningful business connections. Dress your best for a fun evening at the best venues in Dubai and get ready to pose for an #instaphoto 📷 Register and get more details! **[Join our WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/marketing-whatsapp-meetup)** **Marketing Industry Night is a great platform, where you can:** * Expand your professional network by connecting with industry leaders and fellow marketing professionals. * Discover new strategies, trends, and innovations shaping the future of marketing. * Capture valuable memories and build lasting relationships through curated networking opportunities and social activities. **Registration** ✅ RSVP on Meetup. ✅ [Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/marketing-whatsapp-meetup) *Just like any event, slots are limited. RSVP and complete your registration at the earliest.* Happy Networking 😊

This is a Paid event and will be deleted from here. Please register on the link below. https://airhours.eventbrite.com[/?aff=Meetup](https://techbuiss.eventbrite.com/?aff=Meetup) QUESTIONS ? Please Reach out to; Ridhi - [https://wa.me/971552525078](https://wa.me/971525012234) ( WhatsApp Only)

**What this is about?** This is a meetup group focused on AI. We meet every Saturday at 7:30pm at DIFC. Usually there are up to 30 people from different backgrounds, such as AI programmers, rocket engineers, physicists, marketing, designers, investors... But it's also meant for people who have no background in AI and are looking for more insight. This is a very casual group for everyone, no presentations, you can pitch your AI business idea or discuss your favorite Terminator movie. We meet at the Stage Area (next to S&C Music, see directions https://imgur.com/a/QIvYOvT ) above the Carrefour market at DIFC, just look for a group of people there without board games (if you see board games, that's another group). The group is free and there is no requirement to buy anything. There is free wifi. 📣 WhatsApp group for event updates (only mods can post): [https://chat.whatsapp.com/JjrVIJyxHbe9fUWoGLaJsZ](https://chat.whatsapp.com/JjrVIJyxHbe9fUWoGLaJsZ) 📍To get there: 🚇 Metro Station: Financial Centre Metro Station, 5 minutes walk, look for the Financial Centre exit sign. 🚗 Parking Options: Gate Avenue Parking is unfortunately under construction. Other options: Gate District Building 2: free underground parking from 6 pm onwards. \* Street Parking near Ritz Carlton: This is a paid parking option, conveniently located. \* Gate Avenue Open Parking: Present a purchase receipt for 4 hours of complimentary parking. 💡 **Note**: *You might see a few other Meetup pages with similar names - this one’s run by the folks actually hosting the weekly meetups and building the in-person community you’ve seen at DIFC.* *PS: We occasionally take group photos to capture good vibes and community spirit, by attending you're comfortable with casual group photos - feel free to step aside if you don't wish to be in them*

Join other experienced and aspiring agile coaches and professionals to: * develop and practice your coaching skills in a peer-to-peer environment * share current successes and challenges in your work environment and get support from each other * learn from each other, build better relationships and experiment with new ideas

Join other experienced and aspiring agile coaches and professionals to: * develop and practice your coaching skills in a peer-to-peer environment * share current successes and challenges in your work environment and get support from each other * learn from each other, build better relationships and experiment with new ideas

Excited to share that AWS Cloud Club's first meeting will take place on Thursday, February 26th at 5pm - 6pm! We’re collaborating with [Big Data & Analytics Association](https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-data-analytics-association/) to host [Alok Jha](https://www.linkedin.com/in/alok-jha-42abb928/), Head of Product Management for AWS Intelligent Application Protection at Amazon Web Services, for a tech talk + Q&A on his journey in leading cutting-edge innovation in industry. If you’re interested in cloud, cybersecurity, AI, or product management, this is a session you won’t want to miss. Make sure to join our Meetup and GroupMe to stay up to date for future events and collabs!

Join us and work remotely together with like-minded UX folks. This is a last minute opportunity to get out at one of our favorites, [Junto](https://thejuntohotel.com/)! Plenty of seating is available in addition to a connected coffee shop and restaurant. I will be there 10-12 for sure, maybe longer. Feel free to come and go anytime during the day, and don't forget your charger and headphones!

**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** *Spec-Driven Development with GitHub Spec-Kit: From Intent to Implementation* Spec-driven development flips the traditional workflow on its head: instead of code being the source of truth, the specification becomes the backbone of design, collaboration, and delivery. In this session, we’ll explore how GitHub Spec-Kit enables teams to treat specifications as first-class artifacts—living documents that drive architecture, implementation, and verification. You’ll learn how Spec-Kit helps teams clearly express intent using structured, version-controlled specs that live alongside code. We’ll walk through a practical workflow that starts with defining system behavior and constraints, then progressively refines those specs into testable, automatable outcomes. Along the way, we’ll show how specs can reduce ambiguity, improve cross-functional collaboration, and make design decisions explicit before a single line of production code is written. This talk will cover: --What spec-driven development is (and what it isn’t) --How GitHub Spec-Kit fits into modern developer workflows --Using specs to align product, engineering, and AI-assisted development --Real-world examples of turning specs into implementations with confidence Whether you’re building greenfield systems, integrating AI into your stack, or trying to reduce costly rework, spec-driven development offers a scalable way to move faster without sacrificing clarity. Attendees will leave with concrete patterns and a clear mental model for adopting GitHub Spec-Kit in their own projects. **YouTube Link** TBA

**On Friday Feb. 27th Meet the overall winners of Techstars Startup Weekend – Richmond Changemakers.** The Campus Closet and Drip Share team developed from the merging of a community member, a student group from Hampden-Sydney College, and a group of University of Richmond students. Learn about their approach to: * Tackling Sustainability * Customer Validation * Prototyping Design * Business Model Several of the team members will join us, and in their own words: **Emma Cooke**. “I am a sophomore from Columbus, Ohio, majoring in Business Administration with a double concentration in Marketing and Entrepreneurship, and a minor in American Studies. This upcoming summer, I will be interning with IGS Energy, a company in my hometown, as their Campus Talent Engagement Intern. My interest in entrepreneurship started at a young age, but it wasn't until I came to Richmond that I became more serious about all of the possibilities in this field. The program here at U of R has taught me about the importance of building human connection, pushing yourself to think outside of the box, and treating failures as a new opportunity. Entrepreneurship means so much to me because it allows me to embrace the creative, analytical, and professional sides of myself.” **Anna Gregory.** “I’m a sophomore from Concord, Massachusetts, majoring in Leadership Studies and double minoring in Entrepreneurship and Rhetoric & Communication. Richmond’s entrepreneurship program has given me an incredible professional and creative outlet in a supportive, encouraging environment. Entrepreneurship has become really important to me because it challenges me to think bigger, take initiative, and actually bring ideas to life.” **Emma Herrington.** "I grew up in up-state New York. My major is Business Administration with a concentration in Management / Entrepreneurship. Last summer I held an internship with a frim in the fashion industry, headquartered in New York City. Entrepreneurship is important to me because both sides of my family have been entrepreneurs. My Dad was passed down a 4th-generation family business, and my mom has had her own interior design company for almost a decade. **Caroline Kelly.** "I was born and raised in Boston, Massachusetts. I am a senior majoring in Business Administration, with concentrations in Management Consulting & Entrepreneurship, and a double major in Leadership Studies. Two summers ago, I was a Public Relations Intern at Nicole Russo Communications Inc. in Boston's North End. This past summer, I was a Summer Associate Intern at Guidepoint where I worked on the Institutional Client Service Consulting team. Upon graduation in May, I will be returning to Guidepoint as a full time Associate on the team. I currently work part-time at the Law School Career Development Center, and at EVR Research, a small investment management firm. Entrepreneurship is important to me because I enjoy identifying everyday pain points and figuring out how to turn ideas into real, practical solutions. It also gives me the opportunity to apply concepts I’ve learned in accounting, finance, and management in a more hands-on, collaborative, and real-world setting." **The Discussion.** This series of hybrid events is perfect for budding entrepreneurs, experienced executive mentors cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset, early-stage investors, and students exploring innovative product design. At each session, business founders serve as guest speakers share about their career, their firm's business model, as well as the successes and challenges in the product development process. Participants learn from the speakers’ experiences, discuss valuable insights, and connect with other entrepreneurs, students, faculty, and investors. **Logistics.** A light lunch is served, as entrepreneurs connect with one another, learn from peers, and contribute to the conversation: * Friday, February 27, 2026 * 11:30am EST - Coffee & Connection * 12:00pm - 1:00pm EST - Presentation & Discussion No pre-registration is required. Join us: Robins School of Business 102 UR Drive, iLab Room 123 University of Richmond, VA 23173 **Parking.** Free parking is available in the U5 and U6 lots immediately adjacent to the Robins School. Please enter the main foyer, turn to the left and proceed to room 123 (EY Innovation Lab) on the ground floor. Please note that visitors have a two-hour parking window. Please sign in when you enter the room, providing your license plate number. **On Zoom Webinar:** https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89608419334?pwd=am0F9r85xPfh7aBaxtdUDILYsvNAwJ.1

**Confidence in Bloom: How Creativity Builds Confidence** What happens when creativity becomes an intentional practice? In this month’s Confidence Lab, we’ll gather at **Petals That Inspire: The Flourish Studio** for an evening exploring the connection between creativity and confidence. How making with our hands, engaging our senses, and allowing space for expression can shift how we see ourselves and what we believe is possible. Our featured speaker, **Amanda Lorenzetti**, owner of Petals That Inspire, will share how creativity has shaped her own confidence journey and why creative environments play such a powerful role in well-being, resilience, and personal growth. Drawing from her work leading an experience-driven floral studio and a community-centered workforce development program, Amanda will reflect on creativity as both a personal and collective catalyst. Amanda will also guide us through a **hands-on floral design experience**, creating a fresh arrangement in a wide mouth mason jar. No prior floral experience is needed, just curiosity and a willingness to engage the process. This evening is an invitation to slow down, create, and reconnect with the part of yourself that grows through care, attention, and imagination. You’ll leave with a floral arrangement to take home, and a deeper understanding of how confidence can be cultivated through creative practices. **Featured Speaker: Amanda Lorenzetti** Amanda Lorenzetti is the owner and founder of [Petals That Inspire](https://www.petalsthatinspire.com/) and The Flourish Studio, a social enterprise florist based in Columbus, Ohio. She brings more than a decade of experience in wedding and event sales, paired with hands-on expertise in floral and event design. Amanda’s connection to the floral industry began early, spending time alongside her godmother, a professional florist on the East Coast. After earning her business degree, she returned to her hometown in Connecticut to work as a floral and event designer, blending creative artistry with strong operational and client-focused skills. In 2020, Amanda returned to the floral industry with a renewed purpose, driven by a desire to build a business rooted in creativity, community impact, and sustainability. During this pivotal time, she founded Petals That Inspire—an innovative floral concept that reimagines the traditional florist model by combining event florals, workshops, and experiential offerings with a mission-centered approach to workforce development. Today, Petals That Inspire is a thriving social enterprise known for its thoughtful design, educational experiences, and commitment to empowering young adults facing barriers to entry in the workforce. Amanda is deeply passionate about building businesses that are both profitable and purpose-driven, and she leverages her strong business acumen to create a scalable & sustainable model that inspires creativity while giving back to the community. **What is Confidence Lab?** Confidence Lab is a monthly community experience for bold, thoughtful leaders building confidence from the inside out. Whether you’re launching a business, leading a team, navigating change, or simply striving to show up more fully—you belong here. Our work demands clarity, courage, and conviction—but the pace of daily life can erode our sense of self. Confidence Lab creates space to reflect, reconnect, and grow with others doing purpose-driven work. It’s designed for entrepreneurs, nonprofit leaders, creatives, corporate professionals, activists, and anyone ready to lead with authenticity and impact. ***Please note:*** *All are welcome! If cost is a concern, please use promo code PUBLIC to access a free ticket—we want you to join us.*