Product Launch Formula

**Attention attendees!** **To register, use** [Luma](https://luma.com/u03s686c) Warning: The meetup is not a platform for RSVP registration; for this, you need to follow [thisLink ](https://luma.com/u03s686c)to purchase a registration ticket. The meetup is one of the platforms through which we offer participation in our events. **Startup Valley — Toronto** A curated pitch night for startup founders, operators, angels and VC partners. We design these sessions to help founders sharpen their thinking through direct, candid feedback — and to give strong investors access to serious teams. **What happens:** • 4-8 startups pitch live and receive feedback from angels and VC partners • Feedback focuses on real decisions and next steps — not surface-level opinions • Investors stay in the room before and after pitches • The format leaves space for real conversations, not rushed networking • Attendance is limited to keep the room focused Designed for clear thinking, not noise. **Who you’ll meet:** * Startup founders * Angel investors and VC partners * Operators in marketing, sales, and tech * AI engineers * Local and international founders * AI Experts * Founders from Europe, Asia, and the United Kingdom **Practical details** **For investors:** We invite angel investors and VC partners to participate as judges and contributors. **To become a judge,** and get early access to our startups database, please fill out th[ the form](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8CVqvhQJu-AcclIF6PCuwjL4YpQt4w0FchGSoutRkt58v4g/viewform). Join the judge table, meet other investors, and see what teams are building early. Founders need your experienced view. **For pitching startups:** Startups selected to pitch will present live on stage and receive feedback from investors. **After purchasing a ticket:** Please[ submit your pitch deck](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSchcZr9gCNJh0RLiKBgbdbDBKEOc-92LNySkzHf8qGPHg5Wpg/viewform) and ensure it is open for viewers. **Agenda** **19:00 – 19:30** **Registration** Guests register, receive badges, and event programs. This is an opportunity for casual networking, making first connections, and preparing for the event. **19:30 – 20:30** **Event Kickoff & Interactive Networking** Official welcome from the organizers with a brief overview of the event goals and schedule. Interactive networking helps participants set their objectives and connect with key contacts. **20:40 – 21:20** **Startup Pitch Session** Startups present their projects to investors and experts. Each team has 5 minutes to pitch, covering the project's core idea, business model, and target market. **21:20 – 22:00** **Chill & Networking** Participants enjoy casual conversations with investors, discuss collaborations, and exchange ideas over refreshments.

\*These classes are not a language exchange, but instead are meant to be a step in between so that students feel confident maintaining in depth and grammatically correct oral conversations outside of class\* \***Meetup event numbers only tend to show new students registering and do not include returning students attending class.** **Per class, there is an average of 7 students.** The first 2 classes are free and then only cost between $18 and $35 depending on which type of class you want to continue with\* These French, English (For Spanish and French speakers only), and Spanish classes are primarily meant for adults who are travellers, or who are planning to live in a French, English, or Spanish-speaking country. The classes are primarily oral-based through guided conversations. They will teach you how to handle conversations in situations such as **"Going to the Convenience Store"**, **"Making Plans"**, **"Negotiating Prices"**, and **"Going out for a Drink"**. To ensure that students get used to using the language automatically, students will learn to maintain contextual conversations with timing before moving on to the next lesson. Call (647)787-9953, e-mail us info@monkeylingo.ca, or visit monkeylingo.ca for more information! **Online and private classes are also available!** No other language classes are as conversational as these ones. We guarantee it! Cheap parking can be found using the "Spot Hero" app.

**Attention attendees!** **To register, use** [Luma](https://luma.com/u03s686c) Warning: The meetup is not a platform for RSVP registration; for this, you need to follow [thisLink ](https://luma.com/u03s686c)to purchase a registration ticket. The meetup is one of the platforms through which we offer participation in our events. **Startup Valley — Toronto** A curated pitch night for startup founders, operators, angels and VC partners. We design these sessions to help founders sharpen their thinking through direct, candid feedback — and to give strong investors access to serious teams. **What happens:** • 4-8 startups pitch live and receive feedback from angels and VC partners • Feedback focuses on real decisions and next steps — not surface-level opinions • Investors stay in the room before and after pitches • The format leaves space for real conversations, not rushed networking • Attendance is limited to keep the room focused Designed for clear thinking, not noise. **Who you’ll meet:** * Startup founders * Angel investors and VC partners * Operators in marketing, sales, and tech * AI engineers * Local and international founders * AI Experts * Founders from Europe, Asia, and the United Kingdom **Practical details** **For investors:** We invite angel investors and VC partners to participate as judges and contributors. **To become a judge,** and get early access to our startups database, please fill out th[ the form](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8CVqvhQJu-AcclIF6PCuwjL4YpQt4w0FchGSoutRkt58v4g/viewform). Join the judge table, meet other investors, and see what teams are building early. Founders need your experienced view. **For pitching startups:** Startups selected to pitch will present live on stage and receive feedback from investors. **After purchasing a ticket:** Please[ submit your pitch deck](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSchcZr9gCNJh0RLiKBgbdbDBKEOc-92LNySkzHf8qGPHg5Wpg/viewform) and ensure it is open for viewers. **Agenda** **19:00 – 19:30** **Registration** Guests register, receive badges, and event programs. This is an opportunity for casual networking, making first connections, and preparing for the event. **19:30 – 20:30** **Event Kickoff & Interactive Networking** Official welcome from the organizers with a brief overview of the event goals and schedule. Interactive networking helps participants set their objectives and connect with key contacts. **20:40 – 21:20** **Startup Pitch Session** Startups present their projects to investors and experts. Each team has 5 minutes to pitch, covering the project's core idea, business model, and target market. **21:20 – 22:00** **Chill & Networking** Participants enjoy casual conversations with investors, discuss collaborations, and exchange ideas over refreshments.

\*These classes are not a language exchange, but instead are meant to be a step in between so that students feel confident maintaining in depth and grammatically correct oral conversations outside of class\* \***Meetup event numbers only tend to show new students registering and do not include returning students attending class.** **Per class, there is an average of 7 students.** The first 2 classes are free and then only cost between $18 and $35 depending on which type of class you want to continue with\* These French, English (For Spanish and French speakers only), and Spanish classes are primarily meant for adults who are travellers, or who are planning to live in a French, English, or Spanish-speaking country. The classes are primarily oral-based through guided conversations. They will teach you how to handle conversations in situations such as **"Going to the Convenience Store"**, **"Making Plans"**, **"Negotiating Prices"**, and **"Going out for a Drink"**. To ensure that students get used to using the language automatically, students will learn to maintain contextual conversations with timing before moving on to the next lesson. Call (647)787-9953, e-mail us info@monkeylingo.ca, or visit monkeylingo.ca for more information! **Online and private classes are also available!** No other language classes are as conversational as these ones. We guarantee it! Cheap parking can be found using the "Spot Hero" app.

**Attention attendees!** **To register, use** [Luma](https://luma.com/u03s686c) Warning: The meetup is not a platform for RSVP registration; for this, you need to follow [thisLink ](https://luma.com/u03s686c)to purchase a registration ticket. The meetup is one of the platforms through which we offer participation in our events. **Startup Valley — Toronto** A curated pitch night for startup founders, operators, angels and VC partners. We design these sessions to help founders sharpen their thinking through direct, candid feedback — and to give strong investors access to serious teams. **What happens:** • 4-8 startups pitch live and receive feedback from angels and VC partners • Feedback focuses on real decisions and next steps — not surface-level opinions • Investors stay in the room before and after pitches • The format leaves space for real conversations, not rushed networking • Attendance is limited to keep the room focused Designed for clear thinking, not noise. **Who you’ll meet:** * Startup founders * Angel investors and VC partners * Operators in marketing, sales, and tech * AI engineers * Local and international founders * AI Experts * Founders from Europe, Asia, and the United Kingdom **Practical details** **For investors:** We invite angel investors and VC partners to participate as judges and contributors. **To become a judge,** and get early access to our startups database, please fill out th[ the form](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8CVqvhQJu-AcclIF6PCuwjL4YpQt4w0FchGSoutRkt58v4g/viewform). Join the judge table, meet other investors, and see what teams are building early. Founders need your experienced view. **For pitching startups:** Startups selected to pitch will present live on stage and receive feedback from investors. **After purchasing a ticket:** Please[ submit your pitch deck](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSchcZr9gCNJh0RLiKBgbdbDBKEOc-92LNySkzHf8qGPHg5Wpg/viewform) and ensure it is open for viewers. **Agenda** **19:00 – 19:30** **Registration** Guests register, receive badges, and event programs. This is an opportunity for casual networking, making first connections, and preparing for the event. **19:30 – 20:30** **Event Kickoff & Interactive Networking** Official welcome from the organizers with a brief overview of the event goals and schedule. Interactive networking helps participants set their objectives and connect with key contacts. **20:40 – 21:20** **Startup Pitch Session** Startups present their projects to investors and experts. Each team has 5 minutes to pitch, covering the project's core idea, business model, and target market. **21:20 – 22:00** **Chill & Networking** Participants enjoy casual conversations with investors, discuss collaborations, and exchange ideas over refreshments.

\*These classes are not a language exchange, but instead are meant to be a step in between so that students feel confident maintaining in depth and grammatically correct oral conversations outside of class\* \***Meetup event numbers only tend to show new students registering and do not include returning students attending class.** **Per class, there is an average of 7 students.** The first 2 classes are free and then only cost between $18 and $35 depending on which type of class you want to continue with\* These French, English (For Spanish and French speakers only), and Spanish classes are primarily meant for adults who are travellers, or who are planning to live in a French, English, or Spanish-speaking country. The classes are primarily oral-based through guided conversations. They will teach you how to handle conversations in situations such as **"Going to the Convenience Store"**, **"Making Plans"**, **"Negotiating Prices"**, and **"Going out for a Drink"**. To ensure that students get used to using the language automatically, students will learn to maintain contextual conversations with timing before moving on to the next lesson. Call (647)787-9953, e-mail us info@monkeylingo.ca, or visit monkeylingo.ca for more information! **Online and private classes are also available!** No other language classes are as conversational as these ones. We guarantee it! Cheap parking can be found using the "Spot Hero" app.

**SPDY MEETUP 005** Welcome back! Following up on last week’s announcement, we are thrilled to schedule **SPDY MEETUP 005**. As always, we’ll be joined by incredible engineers who are ready to share their latest research and insights. Here's an updated list of presenters and topics: **🔸 Annie Sullivan**, Senior Staff Software Engineer at **Google** *"The latest data on soft navigations in Core Web Vitals"* 🔸 **Michal Mocny**, Sr Software Developer, **Google Chrome**, Speed Metrics *"InteractionContentfulPaint: a new Performance API for measuring UX."* 🔸 **Bas Schouten**, Performance Tech Lead at **Mozilla** *TBA* We have an incredible evening lined up featuring expert-led sessions sharing the latest in web performance research. As always, there will be dedicated time for Q&A following the sessions. **Interested in speaking?** Slots are available for lightning talks. If you’d like to share your work, please reach out via DM or email at **henrihelvetica@gmail.com**. Beyond the presentations, come enjoy some great networking with our vibrant community. We recommend **RSVPing as soon as possible** to secure your spot, as we are expecting international teams from both Google and Mozilla to also attend. With that, we look fwd to seeing everyone May 13th. -Henri

On May 14, 2026, a select group of executive leaders will gather in Toronto for the **[BFUTR Launch Executive Mixer](https://carter.obsidi.com/event/b6a3331f-5da0-47b5-8cdf-ce667f363f55)**—an invitation-only evening that officially kicks off the BFUTR 2026 season. 🚀 This is where senior leaders step away from the noise to connect with peers navigating the same enterprise challenges: scaling AI responsibly, reinventing the workforce, modernizing legacy systems, and turning data into lasting competitive advantage. 🤝📊 The evening will feature a short executive panel where industry leaders share how their organizations are responding to these shifts in real time—what’s working, what’s not, and how leaders are making decisions as the enterprise is reprogrammed. 🎤 With the room intentionally small and curated, the mixer creates space for meaningful dialogue, strategic relationships, and powerful connections with other executives shaping the future of their organizations. 🧠🔗 Guests will also get the first look at **[BFUTR 2026](https://bfutr.obsidi.com/)**, including headliner announcements, programming reveals, and the conversations set to define this year’s summit in November. 👀✨ Start your BFUTR Executive experience by connecting with the tech titans driving the industry forward to new heights. ⚡ **[Register now to secure your invitation.](https://carter.obsidi.com/event/b6a3331f-5da0-47b5-8cdf-ce667f363f55)** **📅 Date:** May 14, 2026 **📍 Location:** Toronto, Ontario **📌 Venue:** Confidential — shared only with confirmed attendees. **🔥Attendance is by invitation only - Director plus audiences without exception.** Submitting a registration form and receiving a registration email does not guarantee entry. Only guests who receive a separate confirmation of attendance will be admitted.🔥

Your first taste of **[BFUTR 2026](https://bfutr.obsidi.com/)** starts here. On May 14, 2026, join a room filled with ambitious technologists, builders, operators, and rising leaders as we kick off the BFUTR season in Toronto. The **[BFUTR Launch Party](https://carter.obsidi.com/event/c119fab0-0438-44b8-823c-44f953cf9e86)** is an exclusive evening designed for professionals who want to connect early with the community shaping what’s next in tech—months before the summit takes over the stage in November. Expect a high-energy atmosphere with music, great food, and curated networking alongside professionals navigating the same shifts reshaping the enterprise today—from AI and automation to evolving career paths in tech. Throughout the evening, attendees will also get the first look at BFUTR 2026, including headliner announcements, programming reveals, and the ideas that will shape this year’s summit. This is where the conversations start, the connections happen, and the momentum toward BFUTR begins. 🎧 Live DJ & Music 🍸 Drinks and great food 🤝 Meaningful connections with technologists and industry leaders 🚀 Early BFUTR 2026 announcements Date: May 14, 2026 Location: Toronto, Ontario This event is reserved for BFUTR 2026 pass holders. Your **[BFUTR pass](https://bfutr.obsidi.com/)** must be presented upon entry. Secure your spot and start your BFUTR journey early. ⚠️ This event is restricted to guests aged 18 and over - minors not admitted. **[CLICK HERE TO REGISTER](https://carter.obsidi.com/event/c119fab0-0438-44b8-823c-44f953cf9e86)**

This group is to discuss and practice our French . Everu

This **SR&ED general information webinar** will provide an overview of the program. We will guide you through the eligibility criteria, qualifying expenditures, and the free tools and services offered by the CRA. * May 14th, 2026, 1 pm to 3 pm ET – English session I would suggest if you own a business and want to receive government funding for your project, thinking of starting a business to learn how you can form your business for maximum benefit, or wish to provide grant writing services to your clients. There is no charge to attend. Registration is required, as space is limited. To register: https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/scientific-research-experimental-development-tax-incentive-program/sred-support-services/sred-webinars.html If you are a member of LeaderSHIFT, you will receive a detailed package with samples and a detailed guide at no cost. Click on attend. Some tools to help members: * [Pre-claim consultations](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/scientific-research-experimental-development-tax-incentive-program/sred-support-services/pre-claim-consultation.html?utm_content=2025-05-13_0193&utm_term=SSV) that allow eligible claimants to work with an SR&ED specialist to determine if their project contains SR&ED work before they submit a claim; * The [SR&ED outreach program](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/scientific-research-experimental-development-tax-incentive-program/sred-support-services/sred-outreach.html?utm_content=2025-05-13_0195&utm_term=SSV), which offers targeted sector-specific presentations and one-on-one presentations to businesses, in addition to hosting general information webinars. We also provide accessible digital resources to help businesses determine their eligibility, calculate expenditures and prepare their claim. These tools include: * The [Self-Assessment and Learning Tool](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/scientific-research-experimental-development-tax-incentive-program/self-assessment-learning-tool.html?utm_content=2025-05-13_0197&utm_term=SSV), which helps claimants find out if their work is likely to qualify for SR&ED tax incentives and estimate their potential claim amount in about 30 minutes or less; * The SR&ED Client Portal, available within [My Business Account](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/e-services/digital-services-businesses/business-account.html?utm_content=2025-05-13_0199&utm_term=SSV), which is a secure, one-stop workspace designed to support claimants throughout the claim process. ## Learn about the program * Register for an upcoming [SR&ED webinar](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/scientific-research-experimental-development-tax-incentive-program/sred-support-services/sred-webinars.html?utm_source=Mailbox&utm_medium=External_Email&utm_campaign=No_Signature_Corporate_item+CPB+SRED&utm_content=2024-10-22_0248) * [Contact us](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/scientific-research-experimental-development-tax-incentive-program/contact-sred.html?utm_source=Mailbox&utm_medium=External_Email&utm_campaign=No_Signature_Corporate_item+CPB+SRED&utm_content=2024-10-22_0258) to book a tailored one-on-one outreach session * Refer to our [annual program statistics](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/scientific-research-experimental-development-tax-incentive-program/annual-program-statistics.html) web page for updated program information * Visit our [multimedia gallery](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/scientific-research-experimental-development-tax-incentive-program/multimedia-gallery.html) for infographics, videos, and a podcast feature ## Find out if your work may be eligible * Refer to our eligibility of work [guidelines](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/scientific-research-experimental-development-tax-incentive-program/sred-policies-guidelines/guidelines-eligibility-work-sred-tax-incentives.html) * Use our quick and easy [Self-Assessment and Learning Tool](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/scientific-research-experimental-development-tax-incentive-program/self-assessment-learning-tool.html?utm_source=Mailbox&utm_medium=External_Email&utm_campaign=No_Signature_Corporate_item+CPB+SRED&utm_content=2024-10-22_0254) * Request a [pre-claim consultation](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/scientific-research-experimental-development-tax-incentive-program/sred-support-services/pre-claim-consultation.html?utm_source=Mailbox&utm_medium=External_Email&utm_campaign=No_Signature_Corporate_item+CPB+SRED&utm_content=2024-10-22_0256) for a project that is either in-progress or completed ## Prepare your claim * Follow our [step-by-step guide](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/scientific-research-experimental-development-tax-incentive-program/sred-claim.html?utm_source=Mailbox&utm_medium=External_Email&utm_campaign=No_Signature_Corporate_item+CPB+SRED&utm_content=2024-10-22_0260): how to prepare your claim * Use the [SR&ED Client Portal](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/e-services/cra-login-services.html) within My Business Account to start building your claim * [Contact us](https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/scientific-research-experimental-development-tax-incentive-program/contact-sred.html?utm_source=Mailbox&utm_medium=External_Email&utm_campaign=No_Signature_Corporate_item+CPB+SRED&utm_content=2024-10-22_0258) to speak to an SR&ED specialist The link will be emailed to all accepted registered participants by SR&ED office of Revenue Canada directly.

Join the Toronto Founders Hub every other Saturday at 3:30pm for our regular meetup at 5 Elements Espresso Bar. Sit down with other entrepreneurs to network and discuss business ideas or strategies. \- Broaden your network \- Get critical feedback \- Socialize in low pressure setting I look forward to seeing you!

We’re thrilled to invite you to an exciting meetup! We'll have one talk presented by an Elastic employee and one presented by a community member. Bring your questions and come support the community! **Agenda** **5:00 PM** – Doors Open Come in, say hello, grab some food, and settle in for an engaging evening. **5:45 PM** – **"Lessons from evaluating production AI Agents for over a year", presented by** Susan Chang, Principal Data Scientist at Elastic **6:15 PM** – Q&A **6:30 PM** – "**Elasticsearch Journey – Working in Different Industries", presented by** Yasir Zaid, Elastic Certified Engineer **7:00 PM** – Q&A **7:15 PM** – Networking & Event Wrap-Up Stick around to chat, connect, and share insights with fellow attendees. **When:** Thursday, May 14th 5:00 - 7:00 pm **Where:** [Centre for Social Innovation - Spadina](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=43.650017%2C%20-79.397156) 192 Spadina Ave. · Toronto, ON 3rd floor, The Viola Desmond Room **Abstracts** **"Lessons from evaluating production AI Agents for over a year"** This talk covers methods of evaluating AI Agents, with an example of how the speakers built evaluation frameworks for a user-facing AI Agent system which has been in production for over a year. We share tools and frameworks used (as well as tradeoffs and alternatives), and discuss methods such as LLM-as-Judge, rules-based evaluations, ML metrics used, as well as selection tradeoffs. **Bio:** Susan Shu Chang is a Principal Data Scientist at Elastic, where she leads work on production-grade machine learning, including generative AI and agentic workflows. She is also an internationally recognized speaker, O’Reilly author, and keynote presenter at major global technical conferences. **My Elasticsearch Journey – Working in Different Industries** This talk explores Yasir Zaidi’s hands-on experience using Elastic products to deliver strategic solutions across banking, insurance, and telecommunications. Through real-world examples, the session will cover how Elasticsearch and the broader Elastic Stack have been used for search architecture, security, SIEM, and observability, along with some of the newer and more exciting projects now being built with Elastic. The talk will also highlight recent Elasticsearch features and innovations, and how they are opening up new possibilities for modern enterprise use cases. **Bio:** Yasir Zaidi is the Owner of ZD Inc. ([https://zd-inc.net/](https://zd-inc.net/)) and Elasticsearch Experts ([https://elasticsearch.expert/](https://elasticsearch.expert/)), and Co-Founder of 360metrics ([https://www.360metrics.io/](https://www.360metrics.io/)) and Certified Elasticsearch Partner Solution Architect. He has delivered hundreds of Elasticsearch projects for organizations around the world, with experience spanning Observability, SIEM, Enterprise search, Cloud deployments, and AI-powered search solutions, Serverless and much more. His work includes engagements with Ericsson, SAP, Intact Insurance, Videotron, RONA, Geotab and Desjardins Bank, just to name a few. Backed by three master’s degrees and Elastic certifications, Yasir brings deep technical expertise and proven global delivery experience. Linkedin: [https://www.linkedin.com/in/yasirzaidi/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/yasirzaidi/) Spots are limited, so don't miss out!

To register, please visit https://www.bnibusinessconnectionsone.com/ • What we'll do Doors open: 6:45 am Structured meeting: 7:00 am - 8:30 am (We start and stop on time.) - Informal Networking - President’s Welcome - Leadership Team Introductions - Education Moment: 2-minute talk on a networking topic - Weekly Presentations (45-seconds per member and guest- pitching your own services) - VP’s Report: Chapter Performance Update - Reports: Treasurer and Membership Committee - 5-Minute Break - 10-Minute Feature Presentation by a Member - Passing of referrals, testimonials, thank yous to guests - Presenter’s Gift Draw - Close OUR GUARANTEE: Business Connections One are full of life, laughter and learning! • What to bring What you’ll need to do as a visitor: - Plan a 45 second (100 words) infomercial on your business and what makes a good referral. - Bring about 40 business cards for circulation to the group. - Pay $30 in cash or cheque at the door (or via Paypal on this site) • Important to know

**ProductTank NoVA is back!** After a brief hiatus, we are relaunching the chapter with a format that cuts out the fluff and gets straight to the reality of building. Every product feed is flooded with AI hype right now, but what does it actually look like on the ground? Instead of a polished keynote, we are hosting **0 to 1 with AI: Real Product Talks**—a "Show & Tell" featuring 3–4 lightning talks focused on the intersection of AI and product. The framing for the talks is simple: *"Here is what I'm building, and here is what I'm stuck on."* We want to look at the messy, 0-to-1 reality of integrating AI into your workflows and products. *(Want to share what you are working on? Reach out! The bar is low-pressure, just 10–12 minutes to talk about a real AI problem you are trying to solve.)* **Agenda:** * **5:30 PM - 6:00 PM:** Doors open, networking, & name tags * **6:00 PM - 6:10 PM:** Welcome + Chapter Relaunch Intro * **6:10 PM - 7:30 PM:** Lightning Talks (Three 12-min talks + 5 mins Q&A each, with a 5-min stretch break) * **7:30 PM - 8:00 PM:** Open networking * **8:00 PM:** Soft close **Location & Logistics:** Herndon Fortnightly Library (Extended Hours Meeting Room) 768 Center St, Herndon, VA 20170 * **Parking:** We'll meet at the library, located just behind the Herndon Municipal Center. There is plenty of free public parking available around the municipal center. * **Metro & Bus:** Take the Silver Line to Herndon Metro Station, then connect via Fairfax Connector Route 921 or 950 to Historic Downtown Herndon. * **Driving (via VA-267/Dulles Toll Rd):** Take Exit 10 North (Centreville Rd, which becomes Elden St). Turn left onto Station St or Lynn St. * **Driving (via VA-286/Fairfax Co Pkwy):** Take the Elden St West exit. Turn right onto Lynn St. Looking forward to seeing everyone again and getting back to building!

## **1 Million Cups Loudoun – Resource Presentation** **What You Really Need to Know from an HR Professional** **Presented by Donna Giarratana** **Wednesday\, May 27 \| 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM** **Venture X Loudoun** Join us for a practical and insightful resource presentation designed to help small business owners navigate one of the most critical — and often overlooked — areas of growth: **Human Resources**. *** ## **About the Session** As your business grows, so do the complexities of managing people, processes, and compliance. Many entrepreneurs wait too long to think about HR — and by the time they do, they’re already reacting instead of planning. In this session, **Donna Giarratana** will break down what small business owners *really* need to know about HR — in a way that is clear, actionable, and relevant to your stage of growth. This conversation is designed to help you move from uncertainty to confidence when it comes to building and managing your team. *** ## **What You’ll Learn** * When it’s the right time to hire * How to set your business up for success before bringing on employees * Why HR matters — even for small businesses * Common pitfalls and how to avoid them * The foundational HR knowledge every business owner should have *** ## **Who Should Attend** * Entrepreneurs preparing to hire their first employee * Small business owners currently managing a team * Founders looking to strengthen operations and compliance * Anyone who wants to build a business with a strong, scalable foundation *** ## **Why Attend?** * Gain clarity on one of the most important aspects of business growth * Learn how to avoid costly mistakes before they happen * Ask questions and get real-world insight from an HR professional * Walk away with practical knowledge you can apply immediately *** ## **About 1 Million Cups** 1 Million Cups is a national program that brings entrepreneurs and communities together to learn, connect, and grow through presentations and discussion. Loudoun’s chapter meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays each month. Join us on **May 27** for coffee, connection, and a conversation that will help you build your business the right way from the inside out. We look forward to seeing you there.

🍻 [World Product Day](https://www.mindtheproduct.com/world-product-day/) is about more than product — it’s about the people who build them. Join **ProductTank DC** for a celebration bringing together product professionals to connect, reflect, and recharge around this year’s theme: **Resiliency**. Product people are no strangers to change. We adapt, learn, and keep building—together. This evening is an opportunity to step back, celebrate that resilience, and recognize the shared challenges and wins that define our craft. Expect thoughtful conversation, practical insights, and a chance to reconnect with the product community in person. Whether you’re an experienced product leader, a new PM, or simply curious about product management, this meetup is a space to learn, contribute, and celebrate the people doing the hard work of building what’s next. **Special thanks to our host:** Clyde's of Chevy Chase! *Please note: Attendees are responsible for their own food and drink purchases. Food and drinks will be available directly from the venue*

Attendance is $35 (cash, credit/debit card, or ApplePay - paid at the door), which includes water/soda/coffee, bread, choice of a plated lunch entrée, and a dessert assortment. Parking is also validated in the Reston Station garages (3 hours of validation). Join one of Northern Virginia's most successful business networking groups (part of BNI). Open to the public and is typically attended by business owners, business developers, and entrepreneurs. Meetings are typically attended by 30-40 members and guests. \*\*\*PLEASE RSVP here: [REGISTER HERE](https://square.link/u/0WvC6Eir) \*\*\*If you do not register on the BNI website, there may not be a seat available for you.

Most AI meetups end up as just networking. **We’re different.** At **AI Tool Explorers Night \| Connect & Make New Friends**, you’ll: ✨ Walk away with a *real learning nugget* (a tool, workflow, or strategy you can use immediately) ✨ Connect with people who share your curiosity for AI, productivity, and automation ✨ Enjoy a fun, casual setting where new ideas and friendships spark naturally 👉 **Our promise:** every session delivers structure, substance, and takeaways you can use when you get home. ### 📅 Event Flow * **6:00–6:15 PM** → Arrivals & intros * **6:15–6:45 PM** → AI demo / learning nugget * **6:45–7:00 PM** → Q&A and group discussion * **7:00–8:00 PM** → Networking & contact sharing ⚡ Please hold networking until after the presentation so we can all learn together. Plenty of time at the end to connect and exchange cards! **Let's explore AI Tools that actually *work* in our day-to-day life!** *** #ChatGPT #Claude #Grok #Gemini #Perplexity #DeepSeek #NotebookLM #Cursor #GitHubCopilot #Replit #Windsurf #v0dev #Lovable #Zapier #Makecom #n8n #Descript #OpusClip #Synthesia #Runway #Sora #Kling #Veo #PikaLabs #LTXStudio #AdobeFirefly #Vidu #Hailuo #LumaDreamMachine #Wisecut #Elaiio #Capsule #Filmora #Gling #Magisto #AdobePremierePro #ElevenLabs #Suno #Udio #Soundraw #Riffusion #Mubert #BeatovenAI #AIVA #Loudly #SplashPro #Soundful #MagentaStudio #WavTool #MakeBestMusic #BandLabSongStarter #TadAI #EcrettMusic #Midjourney #DALLE3 #CanvaMagicStudio #NotionAI #Gamma #Fathom #FirefliesAI #MLX

If you’re trying to grow in marketing right now, guessing isn’t a great strategy. This event gives you direct access to how marketing leaders actually think. Join DC Marketing Tech Talks on May 19th in Tysons for a live **CMO Ask Me Anything** — a candid, open conversation with experienced marketing leaders who have built teams, driven revenue, and led at the highest levels. This is your chance to ask: * What skills actually matter right now? * What gets someone promoted vs. passed over? * What does it take to become a CMO today? * How are marketing teams and roles changing? * How do you connect brand to real business growth? Just real answers from people who have done the work. Whether you’re looking to move up, switch roles, or sharpen your edge, you’ll leave with a clearer sense of what to focus on next. As always, this event is free and open to the public thanks to our sponsors, SalesIntel. Food, drinks, networking, and a room full of marketers who care about getting better at what they do. Come with questions. Leave with direction.