Ideators & Inventors & Innovators

What if the best product requirement was a working prototype? Amazon built an empire on one principle: start with the customer and work backwards. Identify the durable need. Resist building until you know what you're solving - and for whom. Vibe coding doesn't abandon that discipline. It supercharges it. Join us for an in-depth discussion on how natural language becomes structured specs, specs become architecture, and architecture becomes working software - in real time, in the room, on your machine. Whether you're validating a product idea or accelerating a team's delivery, this is where the “Working Backwards” mindset meets the AI-native development stack. **Featured speaker:** * [AJ Bubb](https://www.linkedin.com/in/ajbubb/), Innovation Strategist and AWS veteran - for a hands-on session exploring Spec-Driven Development with AWS Kiro. \~ "*We're not just talking about it. We're building with it*!" **Location:** AWS Skills Center, 1550-G Crystal Dr, Arlington, VA 22202 **Drinks and Networking After:** Tacombi, 1550 Crystal Dr, Arlington, VA 22202 **Description:** Join us at AI Innovators Network for our upcoming meetup in the Mosaic, which is dedicated to exploring the latest trends in Artificial Intelligence. Whether you're an AI enthusiast, a professional, or someone curious about the intersection of technology and AI, this event is perfect for networking, learning, and sharing insights. Connect with like-minded individuals from DC, Northern Virginia, and Maryland as we dive deep into the opportunities and challenges of integrating AI. Don't miss this opportunity to be part of the conversation driving innovation and progress in Artificial Intelligence.

\-\-\-\-\-\- [REGISTER FOR THE EVENT HERE (ON LU.MA)!](https://luma.com/pqog5iij) \-\-\-\-\-\- Join us for an evening of collaborative problem-solving as we work on a variety of civic tech projects together. Project needs vary but often include brainstorming, researching, writing, coding, or analyzing data. Check out [our website](https://www.civictechdc.org/projects) for a list of projects which may make an appearance! Meet other civic tech enthusiasts. Learn new skills. Contribute to a project to improve a local civic issue. **All are welcome and collaboration is encouraged.** Laptops are recommended but not required. **Where do I register?** To better serve our growing community, we’re transitioning our event registrations to [Luma](https://luma.com/civic-tech-dc)! **We still love Meetup** Meetup has been an incredible platform for us to build and connect with our community. We’ll continue sharing upcoming events there so that new people can find us, but [Luma](https://luma.com/civic-tech-dc) will be our primary registration platform moving forward. **Why we're making the switch** Meetup’s registration system has some limitations, and we need more flexibility to manage sign-ups and engagement. \-\-\-\-\-\- [REGISTER FOR THE EVENT HERE (ON LU.MA)!](https://luma.com/pqog5iij) \-\-\-\-\-\-

Join us for this fun, effective cardio workout that combines several different workout methods including aerobics, bodyweight strength training, and plyometrics! Enjoy a high-energy group environment as you improve your strength and cardiovascular endurance. Level: All. Ages 13 & up Fitness in the Parks is a FREE program that brings a variety of fitness opportunities to parks and natural areas across Prince George’s County, MD! We invite you to find the class that best suits your fitness goals and to come discover the benefits of exercising in nature. Register at *pgparksdirect.com*. No classes on federal holidays (Memorial Day 5/25). Classes may be canceled due to inclement weather or wet grounds. Call 301-927-0822 for weather-related cancellations. **Register Here:**[ pgparksdirect.com](https://mdpgparksweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/iteminfo.html?Module=AR&FMID=532319968) Activity Code: 17681-279C For fastest response to any questions, or for more information, please contact Health and Wellness directly at (301) 446-6800; TTY (301) 699-2544 or email [wellness@pgparks.com](wellness@pgparks.com)

[Profs and Pints DC](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“Doom and Dinosaurs,”** a look at how mass extinctions shaped the dinosaurs and what research on these events tells us about Earth life’s long-term prospects, with Ian Wilenzik, paleontologist and visiting assistant professor of biology at George Washington University. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/dc-doom-and-dinosaurs](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/dc-doom-and-dinosaurs) .] Pity the poor dinosaurs. They lacked both scientific research to help deal with potential environmental catastrophes and places where they could have a beer and discuss it. You, on the other hand, have the opportunity to come to Profs and Pints to hear a fascinating talk on the impact of mass extinctions on dinosaur evolution and what research on dinosaurs tells us about biodiversity and Earth’s current biodiversity crisis. Dr. Ian Wilenzik, who has studied and taught courses on dinosaur evolution, population spread, and extinction, will leave you with a greater appreciation of the resilience of life on earth and how we’re both the product and source of biologically catastrophic events. Many of us are familiar with how a big meteor impact about 66 million years ago wiped out the Earth’s dinosaur population, leaving us only with their feathered descendants, birds. Less well known is how the Earth actually has undergone five periods of mass extinction that wiped out nearly all life, and how dinosaurs arose from one and endured another—both caused by volcanic activity—before meeting their match in the third. To ground his discussion, Dr. Wilenzik will talk about how we study mass extinctions by looking for geologic evidence of volcanic activity, meteoric blasts, and other catastrophic activity and of gaps in the fossil record after them. He’ll also discuss what makes a dinosaur a dinosaur, describing their distinct anatomical features. He’ll talk about how they and other forms of life evolved over long periods of time and were affected by extinction events. We’ll look at how the meteor-caused mass extinction that wiped out dinosaurs at the end of the Cretaceous paved the way for the rise of mammals and the emergence of primates, and, eventually, us. Looking ahead to future mass extinctions and what might survive them, we’ll talk about how that plant you forget to water might have the last laugh, as well as why crocodiles might be around a while. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. The talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image: A *Triceratops* mounted skeleton at the Los Angeles Museum of Natural History (Photo by Allie Caulfield / Wikimedia Commons).

AI meetup, come share your projects and learn from industry professionals over casual conversation and potentially a drink

Curious about what it’s like to work in tech? Join us for a “day in the life” session with AWS engineers and learn about their roles, daily work, and career journeys in cloud computing. Stick around after for a networking session with professionals and students ask questions, make connections, and explore future opportunities in tech.

Greetings, Let's meet again for another end of the month Melanated Investors Book Club discussion. Last year, several individuals participated in the virtual 12 month review of **Rashad Bilal and Troy Millings'**--financial literacy experts, master investors, and founders of the Earn Your Leisure PodCast debut book **'You Deserve to Be Rich'** (released January 14th, 2025; see link below). Prior to that, Jason and Cassandra Lockhart facilitated monthly virtual discussions pre and post pandemic (2021/2022 to 2024) before planning thier wedding in 2025. For those interested in **in-person book discussions** **(informal)** to include various topics related to leadership, advocacy, entrepreneurship, economic empowerment, financial literacy, and community services--**feel free to RSVP.** All are welcome to attend (no need bring a book or have read any featured text). As usual, feel free to discuss other topics to include books/content you are currently reading that extend beyond entrepreneurship. If you, or anyone you know, would like to partner, collaborate, or lead a discussion feel free to reach out via meet-up message or phone at anytime. Also, if there are any questions regarding this meet-up do not hesitate to reach out at anytime. Updates may also be added to the event chat/comment section at anytime, thank you. **Book Link:** [https://www.amazon.com/s?k=you+deserve+to+be+rich&ref=nav_bb_sb](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=you+deserve+to+be+rich&ref=nav_bb_sb) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Alicia (202) 627-0361 Tuesday April, 14th, 2026 12:00pm (update)

Please reserve your spot by registering on the below link : **Reserve** [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/join-biggest-community-investors-founders-washington-online-tickets](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/join-biggest-community-investors-founders-washington-online-tickets-1912156614909?aff=oddtdtcreator) **QUESTIONS ?** Pls Reach out to; Ridhi - [+971504724873](http://wa.me/971504724873) ( WhatsApp Only)

Meet in the parking lot of the Handy Bikes Service Center. At the start of each ride, we'll go over introductions to have a sense of participants' cycling experience. Over the course of our rides, we'll address the following: group riding dynamics; safety (ABC check & trail hazards); gear shifting; hill climbing; audible and hand communication within the group, with other trail users, and automobile drivers; what to bring on each ride; etc... Bring your questions, water & a snack. When it starts getting dark earlier, we'll need lights as well. Helmets a MUST. If you can, and especially if you've had issues with your bike, come a bit early to have it looked at ahead of the ride. PS - all levels are welcome to join, however, be mindful that if you are an experienced rider, please be prepared to ride at the pace of the newest rider in the group. Each week, depending on who's in attendance, and participants' riding ability/comfort level, we may do skills practice as a group in the parking lot or at the west end of Wheeler Ave. Once everyone is comfortable, we'll go for a ride on local trails and neighborhood streets and finish back at the shop. Happy Pedaling !! \~Maya

Robots, rockets, chemistry, nature, environmental science, medicine, astronomy, math games, technology & so much more! ADMISSION & PARKING ARE FREE The Rockville Science Center invites you to bring the whole family for an afternoon of fun and discovery at the 34th annual Rockville Science Day. Our group, MoCo Makers, will be one of 120 exhibitors, and there are over 4000 visitors. Do you have a maker exhibit to show off? Share some table space with us - contact matt@mocomakers.com This year we will show off our scanning tunneling microscope, and some electronics projects - among other things!! Each year this free event features a variety of science and technology-related exhibits, activities, games and demos such as rocket-building (and launching), telescope viewing, all kinds of robots, backyard wildlife, ship models, microscopes, snakes, stream science, coding challenges, math puzzles, chemistry in action (flames, explosions & reactions), electric vehicle demos, quadcopters, archaeology mini-digs, 3D printing, brain games, and much more! Food will be available for purchase. Rain or shine! Montgomer College (Rockville) 51 Mannakee St, Rockville, MD 20850 More event details: https://www.rockvillesciencecenter.org/rockville-science-day

**☕ Code & Coffee \| Black Code Collective** Pull up, plug in, and enjoy some good company. Join us for a chill Sunday coworking session — bring your laptop and your current project (or no project at all). All skill levels welcome. **Free to attend. Coffee & treats provided. Just show up.** 📅 **Sunday, April 26** 🕙 **10:30 AM – 12:30 PM** 📍 **Falls Church, VA** Please note that we would be located on the 5th floor with the listed address below. 105 W Broad St, Suite #410 · Falls Church, VA 22046

Come connect with founders across the DC startup community at our monthly Startup Grind DC Founders Dinner. This month, we’re spotlighting Agency founders—but all founders are welcome to join us for complimentary appetizers and great conversation. Quick heads-up: Your ticket includes event access and 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 the event, covering food, or contributing financially, sponsors get the opportunity to connect directly with founders, receive 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. --- Global Partner Carta (http://www.carta.com/launch?utm_campaign=20240423-nam-general-smb-startup_grind_partnership&utm_medium=social&utm_source=startup_grind) Carta helps people manage equity, build businesses, and invest in the companies of tomorrow. Carta Launch is the only free cap table product, helping new founders get started. The company is trusted by more than 40,000 companies, over 7,000 funds and SPVs, and over two million equity holders to manage cap tables, compensation, valuations, liquidity, and more. For more information, visit carta.com. 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-april-2026-founders-dinner/.

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 ***NOTE:*** Pre-registration is required for this event. **Please arrive 10 minutes early** to check in at the security desk.

💓 **Online Speed Dating Built for First Timers – Real Connections, Zero Pressure!** **🔴 MUST READ: RSVP Alone Won't Get You In!** To attend, you must: (1) Click your age group link below, (2) Complete registration, and (3) Finish the personality quiz. Limited spots available – register now before they're gone! **📋 Choose Your Age Range Below to Register:** - **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Toledo&groupurlname=community-of-local-singles-mixer-events&ar=18-32&face_v=7.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Toledo&groupurlname=community-of-local-singles-mixer-events&ar=30-46&face_v=7.0) - **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Toledo&groupurlname=community-of-local-singles-mixer-events&ar=40-58&face_v=7.0) - **Ages 55+** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Toledo&groupurlname=community-of-local-singles-mixer-events&ar=55+&face_v=7.0) --- 🤝 Tired of swiping with no results? Try real conversations instead! Online speed dating removes all the awkward parts of traditional dating. A friendly host guides you through each round, so all you have to do is show up and be yourself. 🎯 **Perfect for:** - Introverts who shine in one-on-one conversations - First-time speed daters seeking a welcoming, easy experience - First-timers who want to date without the pressure of face-to-face meetings - Busy professionals who value their time and comfort **How It Works** 1. **Sign Up** – Click the registration link for your age bracket above. 2. **Finish the Short Personality Assessment** – This helps us optimise your matches for the evening. 3. **Connect on Zoom** – No setup needed. Just click the link and you're in! 4. **Meet Your Matches** – Rotate through fun one-on-one rounds with Toledo singles who share your vibe. 5. **Discover Your Matches** – We'll notify you of any mutual interest after the event. The rest is up to you! **Event Details** - **Format:** Hosted live on Zoom – guided, fun, and stress-free - **Location:** No venue needed – just a comfy seat and a good internet connection - **Host:** Your personal guide through the evening – friendly, encouraging, and fun - **Vibe:** Light-hearted, easy-going speed dates with open-minded Toledo singles - **Accessibility:** Join from any device – laptop, tablet, or phone - **Duration:** About 60–90 minutes of structured, fun conversations **Frequently Asked Questions** **How long are the conversations?** Each round is a few minutes – long enough to feel a connection, short enough to keep things exciting! **What happens after the event?** We reveal mutual matches after the event. If you both liked each other, we help you connect! --- ✨ The hardest part is clicking register. After that, we make everything easy. See you there! 💘 ✨

Christians in Tech is a community at the intersection of faith and technology. Our meetups are designed to spark meaningful conversations, promote knowledge sharing, and encourage growth—both in your career and your spiritual walk with God. Whether you're an experienced professional or just starting your tech journey, CIT welcomes you. Our Website [https://linktr.ee/citcbus](https://linktr.ee/citcbus) Sponsors and Partners * Improving (Venue Sponsor) * Bethel World Prayer Center (Fiscal Sponsor) * Fruits & Roots (Coffee Partner)

Walk for Children - 2026 Save Soil Walkathon in Columbus 🌍 Over 52% of the world soil is degraded and scientists warn we may have only a few decades of fertile soil left. As Sadhguru shares, soil is a living system—and when it degrades, our food, health, and future are at risk. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hyT-6qiubd0 🚶‍♂️🌎This Earth Day, Join the Walk for Children-2026 SaveSoil 5K Walkathon here in Columbus and help raise awareness about soil for the future of our children! Every step you take helps: ✔️ 1. Raise awareness in your communities about protecting and restoring soil. ✔️ 2. Supports sustainable food systems. ✔️ 3. Helps secure our children’s future. 📅 Date: April 26, 2026 📍 Location: Scioto Audubon Metro Park Check-in address 400 W Whittier St, Columbus, OH 43215 ⏰ Time: 8:30 a.m. check-in event starts at 9:30 a.m. 👉 Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/walk-for-children-2026-save-soil-walkathon-in-columbus-registration-1986596534713?aff=oddtdtcreator 👉🏼Free and Open to All. Share this message and bring your neighbours, friends & family along to celebrate our planet! Let’s make it happen!

💓 **Online Speed Dating Built for First Timers – Real Connections, Zero Pressure!** **🔴 MUST READ: RSVP Alone Won't Get You In!** To attend, you must: (1) Click your age group link below, (2) Complete registration, and (3) Finish the personality quiz. Limited spots available – register now before they're gone! **📋 Choose Your Age Range Below to Register:** - **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Fort%20Wayne&groupurlname=community-of-local-singles-mixer-events&ar=18-32&face_v=7.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Fort%20Wayne&groupurlname=community-of-local-singles-mixer-events&ar=30-46&face_v=7.0) - **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Fort%20Wayne&groupurlname=community-of-local-singles-mixer-events&ar=40-58&face_v=7.0) - **Ages 55+** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=430.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Fort%20Wayne&groupurlname=community-of-local-singles-mixer-events&ar=55+&face_v=7.0) --- 🤝 Tired of swiping with no results? Try real conversations instead! Online speed dating removes all the awkward parts of traditional dating. A friendly host guides you through each round, so all you have to do is show up and be yourself. 🎯 **Perfect for:** - Introverts who shine in one-on-one conversations - First-time speed daters seeking a welcoming, easy experience - First-timers who want to date without the pressure of face-to-face meetings - Busy professionals who value their time and comfort **How It Works** 1. **Sign Up** – Click the registration link for your age bracket above. 2. **Finish the Short Personality Assessment** – This helps us optimise your matches for the evening. 3. **Connect on Zoom** – No setup needed. Just click the link and you're in! 4. **Meet Your Matches** – Rotate through fun one-on-one rounds with Fort Wayne singles who share your vibe. 5. **Discover Your Matches** – We'll notify you of any mutual interest after the event. The rest is up to you! **Event Details** - **Format:** Hosted live on Zoom – guided, fun, and stress-free - **Location:** No venue needed – just a comfy seat and a good internet connection - **Host:** Your personal guide through the evening – friendly, encouraging, and fun - **Vibe:** Light-hearted, easy-going speed dates with open-minded Fort Wayne singles - **Accessibility:** Join from any device – laptop, tablet, or phone - **Duration:** About 60–90 minutes of structured, fun conversations **Frequently Asked Questions** **How long are the conversations?** Each round is a few minutes – long enough to feel a connection, short enough to keep things exciting! **What happens after the event?** We reveal mutual matches after the event. If you both liked each other, we help you connect! --- ✨ The hardest part is clicking register. After that, we make everything easy. See you there! 💘 ✨

Bring your Raspberry Pi, Arduino, microcontroller, or any other electronic project and join fellow electronics makers for a night of creativity and collaboration! This session is open forum to share your current projects—whether complete or in progress, it’s all interesting! Whether you’re deep into embedded systems, exploring new ideas, or just getting started, you’ll find a welcoming space to collaborate, share, and get inspired. **New to electronics or curious about tinkering?** You’re absolutely welcome. If you’re a beginner and want to experiment, I’ll have a couple of starter kits available so you can try things out—whether that’s blinking your first LED, putting something on a display, or experimenting with simple sensors. No pressure and no experience required—just an interest in learning and building. While we continue to pursue a more permanent venue for this Meetup, we’ll be using public library facilities based on availability. This session will be at the Worthington Park Library in the Olentangy Meeting Room.