Startup Businesses

Liebe Rhetorikfreunde, Habt ihr Lust, die Kunst des Redens zu erlernen? Du kannst als Gast einfach reinschnuppern oder als Clubmitglied das volle Programme nutzen. Mithilfe eines ausgezeichneten praxisorientierten Programms kannst du einen von 11 verschiedenen Lernpfaden auswählen und in 5 aufeinander aufbauenden Stufen lernen: * frei und ohne Blackout zu reden * unterhaltsam und überzeugend zu präsentieren * souverän zu moderieren * Deine Körpersprache wirkungsvoll einzusetzen * spontan zu einem vorher unbekannten Thema zu pitchen Haben wir dich neugierig gemacht? Ganz gleich, ob du einfach mal „reinschnuppern“ oder dein Können gleich mit einer kurzen Stegreifrede unter Beweis stellen möchtest – wir freuen uns auf dich. Willkommen sind * Redebegeisterte * Redescheue * Kreative, denen die Werkzeuge zur Kommunikation fehlen * Angestellte/Selbstständige, die besser vor Publikum oder vorm Chef reden wollen Du kannst bei uns alle aktuellen Herausforderungen trainieren: * Präsenztreffen vor Publikum * Onlinetreffen * Präsentieren * Pitchen Wir freuen uns auf rege Teilnahme und Anmeldung. *** Der Eintritt ist kostenfrei. Wir beginnen pünktlich um 19:00 Uhr. Einlass ab 18:45 Uhr.

Ready to build a serious AI-powered income stream — without gambling your career? Join Paul Chuter for a live, interactive session where you’ll see how busy professionals are building AI-driven businesses designed to generate meaningful income — with structure, not guesswork. This isn’t theory. You’ll see how a real AI powered business is built live and see exactly how AI can be used as leverage — not hype. Inside You’ll Discover: • How to turn one clear idea into a monetised offer • The practical way to build alongside your job • Where most AI income attempts fail — and how to avoid it This is not about “overnight success.” It’s about building a strategic path to freedom. No tech overwhelm. No influencer nonsense. No unrealistic promises. Just a serious wealth conversation for professionals who want options. If you’re thinking about your exit strategy — this is your starting point. \- Register now and see what building an AI\-powered income properly looks like\. ***Please note : The zoom link allows you to register and then the workshop zoom link is emailed to you. You can register in advance of the event.*** The Adapt and Thrive Events Group wholeheartedly supports the policies and principles of Meetup. We make no guarantees and we do not offer financial services or assurances. All our Meetup Events are FREE to attend.

## **DNA. presents "ARTISTS MEET UP & JAM SESSION"** ##### **‍**\- a Free & Creative Space for Artists of all kinds to Connect\, Share & Grow\. Together\. ‍ In this space, it's all about community, creativity & collaboration. Whether You're a storyteller, musician, poet, dancer, or visual artist, this space welcomes every form of expression. ‍ > Every respectful person is invited to join. ‍ We talk, we drink, we laugh, we get to know each other & we share our Stories. ‍ \*\*WHEN:\*\*‍ Every Monday 7 - 11 pm ‍ **LINE UP:** DOORS & MEET UP: 7 pm MEET & GREET: 7 - 8 pm JAM SESSION: 8 - 11 pm ATELIER FLOOR (HOUSE MUSIC): 9 - 11 pm + ‍ **SET UP:** for the Jam Session... there is a full band set up available ‍ **WHERE:** [DNA. ART HOUSE](https://maps.app.goo.gl/4XrC8gTPtdDGb3oB6) Wrangelstraße 25 10997 Berlin ‍ ##### **TICKETS:** Box Office: Free for DNA. Members\* / 5e regular (Daily Membership\*\*) **+ FREE ENTRY & FREE DRINK** for Every Artist joining the Jam Session ‍ **SIGN UP:** No signup needed – just come over & be part of our Creative Community. For more info see: [www.dna-artclub.com](https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.google.com/url?q%3Dhttp://www.dna-artclub.com%26amp;sa%3DD%26amp;source%3Deditors%26amp;ust%3D1726165890491369%26amp;usg%3DAOvVaw0tJ9La9WXHWzLDW3XsmuEZ&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1726165890529967&usg=AOvVaw2auoUIdwYdu4PnO3_kfvNh) / follow us on IG: [@nightart.club](https://www.instagram.com/nightart.club) :) ...for more info check out www.dna-artclub.com / follow us on IG: @nightart.club See You soon :) Love. DNA. ______ \*Members of Dair Night Art e.V. and Subscribers of DNA. Art GbR. \*\*By entering the DNA. ART HOUSE, You agree to comply with the Hausordnung of Dair Night Art e.V. and Geschäftsordnung of Dair Night Art e.V. Please ensure You review these documents thoroughly in advance.

So hast du andere Leute in Berlin wahrscheinlich noch nie kennengelernt! Bis zu 10 Singles, die sich zuvor nicht kennen, treffen sich in einer Bar und lernen sich bei einem eigens für diese Veranstaltungsreihe entwickelten Spiel näher kennen. Das Spiel kombiniert eine gelungene Mischung aus Fragen, Aktionsaufgaben und lustiger Unterhaltung, die alleine oder als Team gemeistert werden. Durch verschiedene Aufgaben und Fragen kommen die Spieler in direkte Interaktion miteinander und lernen sich im Spielverlauf näher kennen. Im Vergleich zur klassischen Single Party lernst du bei Socialmatch wirklich nur Singles in deiner Altersgruppe kennen und kommst von ganz alleine ins Gespräch mit den anderen Teilnehmern. Ein Spielmoderator vor Ort informiert über den Ablauf und leitet durch den Abend. Sicher dir jetzt deinen Platz beim nächsten Event unter [[www.socialmatch.de](http://www.socialmatch.de/)] und lerne neue Leute in deiner Stadt kennen. Dieses Event ist für die Altersgruppe 40 - 60 Jahre. P.S. Socialmatch erhielt 2015 bereits einen Award für das Konzept, teste es selbst ;-) **Achtung: Nur mit Buchung über die Website ist eine Teilnahme möglich!**

🕢 Doors open at 18:30 and sessions start at 19:00. Freestyle vocal workout at and play session. €8-20 😌 Flow is a state of being… an experience when you allow yourself to be 100% fully engaged in the present moment in a feedback loop between clarity and satisfaction. It is an undeniable sensation where things seem to be more effortless, pleasurable, in sync, and you can easily sense a connection with something greater than yourself; this is what we will create…: • a connected and mindful meditation where it is possible to blissfully surf the cutting edge of the present moment together… • a game where it’s possible to feel excited and calm in the same moment, and everyone can win as much as they like… Scott Bolden, founder of Das Baumhaus Berlin will share some very easy, practical and effective methods developed during the last 12 years of facilitating the “Improvisational Groove Orchestra” (I.G.O.) improv vocal jam sessions. Within 20 minutes participants learn to use the common sound space to create resonance in the form of improvisational music where it is quite common to experience some real flow moments… It is very easy to participate, no musical talent or training is required so anyone is welcome to join. All of the session is done with eyes closed to avoid visual distractions and keep focus on the co-created sound space. During these sessions we will also have short breaks for feedback and refreshment. Important – Please be on time. It is very important to understand the methodology and warm up in the group before joining in! 🎤 @21:00 - Freestyle vocal workshop and practice session. €8-15 Have you ever wanted to learn how to do freestyle vocalizations? Maybe you are on your way and would like to just have a fun workout session with other vocal freestyle enthusiasts. All levels welcome. Links to sound samples - https://www.baumhausberlin.de/events/flow-a-guided-vocal-sound-bath-meditation/

Mondays have a bad reputation. But what if they were for serendipity instead of survival? Join us for an evening of easy conversation, new faces, and that particular kind of energy that appears when strangers realize they might actually like each other. Think less networking, more social alchemy. Because the week doesn’t have to begin with waiting. ✨ Suggested Ice Breaker Question: “What unexpected moment made you feel at home in Berlin?” Orga The location accepts only card payments. We will be sitting in the first room. Questions? Check our Meetup-FAQs: [https://socialbutterfly.berlin/meetup-faq/](https://socialbutterfly.berlin/meetup-faq/) Meet your host I’m Julia — a Berlin local who loves bringing people together. My path went from growing up in a dance school to studying philosophy to working in IT support, and somehow all of that led me here: hosting meetups and creating spaces where people can show up, relax, and connect. Insta [https://www.instagram.com/juwaberlin/](https://www.instagram.com/juwaberlin/) LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-waehnert/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-waehnert/) About The Social Butterfly Club 🦋 is a Berlin-based community that has been bringing people together for over three years. Each gathering is part of a larger framework designed to help friendships grow through shared experiences in the city — with a long-term vision of turning Berlin itself into a shared, playful experience. Love the vibe? There’s a whole community waiting for you. 🦋 Join the Social Butterfly Club and experience Berlin together [https://socialbutterflyradar.substack.com/](https://socialbutterflyradar.substack.com/)

\*This is a free event, but please [donate through Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.de/e/read-editing-monthly-writers-meetup-tickets-1981513291596?aff=oddtdtcreator) to support our collective if you are able! Please join us on the 2nd Monday of every month for this event, built for all of your “in between works“ by the [Read Wedding](https://www.instagram.com/readwedding/) collective. Most events for writers are focused around ***creation or performance***. Much comes between this, yet we do not always hold each other through that phase. It is perhaps expected that all of those self-questioning, unsure, multi-path moments between lightbulb idea and snap-inducing performances are to be personal and private -- but they do not always have to be. We therefore offer you a space for everything unfinished. Needing bouncing around. Ready for a test run. We will meet in a more traditional meetup format than our open mic -- without any set format of facilitation. We will determine the approach to each session based on who's arrived and what their goals are. You may expect some combination of solitary writing time, sharing and feedback, and guided exercises. We'd love for you to show up however you are, and with some writing materials (including your phone, if you prefer). However you arrive, so long as you are feeling curious and open, we will have something for you and your work. See you there! Brooks, Bubamarrë, Maggie & Johanna Re(a)d VVedding Kollektiv \-\-\- **NOTE: Excluding select, small workshops, Read Wedding has hosted entirely free events since we started. If you have the means and would like to support us, it goes a long way. Please consider [donating through Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.de/e/read-editing-monthly-writers-meetup-tickets-1981513291596?aff=oddtdtcreator).**

🤝 **Co-Founder Matching** ​Finding the right co-founder can change everything. ​Join us for an interactive networking session designed to connect founders, aspiring entrepreneurs, developers, creatives, and people looking to build something together. ​Whether you already have an idea and are searching for the right person to join you, or you’re looking to become part of a startup journey, this event is the perfect opportunity to meet like-minded people and explore potential collaborations. ​Through guided networking and open conversations, participants will have the chance to introduce themselves, share their interests and skills, and connect with others who complement their vision. *** # ​💡 What to Expect ​• Founder introductions • Guided networking • Conversations around ideas, skills, and goals • Meeting people with complementary strengths • Opportunities for future collaboration *** # ​🎯 Who Should Join ​• Founders looking for a co-founder • Developers & designers • Marketing & business enthusiasts • Aspiring entrepreneurs • Anyone interested in joining a startup journey *** # ​📅 Event Details ​📅 **May 16, 2026** ⏰ **13:00 – 15:30** 📍 **The Social Hub** 🤝 Join Our WhatsApp Community For updates about upcoming events, networking opportunities, and founder meetups, join our **WhatsApp community** where entrepreneurs support, connect, and grow together. 👇 [https://chat.whatsapp.com/JmibzpAnl5e058fSBIlgpL](https://chat.whatsapp.com/JmibzpAnl5e058fSBIlgpL?utm_source=luma)

🌸 **Women Founders Meet & Greet** Join us for a relaxed afternoon bringing together **female founders, aspiring entrepreneurs, creatives, and builders** in a welcoming and supportive atmosphere. This event is all about creating meaningful connections, sharing experiences, exchanging ideas, and meeting like-minded women navigating the startup world. Whether you’re already building something or just starting to explore your ideas, this is a space where conversations happen naturally and everyone is welcome. No pressure. No formalities. Just good coffee, inspiring people, and real conversations 🤝 *** # 📅 Event Details 📅 **May 13, 2026** ⏰ **12:00 – 15:00** 📍 **Cafe Amelie Coffee & Breakfast** *** # 💡 What to Expect • Relaxed networking • Meaningful conversations • Sharing ideas & experiences • Meeting inspiring women from the startup ecosystem *** # 🎯 Who Should Join • Female founders • Aspiring entrepreneurs • Creatives & builders • Women interested in startups and business 🤝 Join Our WhatsApp Community For updates about upcoming events, networking opportunities, and founder meetups, join our **WhatsApp community** where entrepreneurs support, connect, and grow together. 👇 [https://chat.whatsapp.com/JmibzpAnl5e058fSBIlgpL](https://chat.whatsapp.com/JmibzpAnl5e058fSBIlgpL)

from the crew that did [the biggest AI hackathon in Germany:](https://luma.com/hl7wv7k3) this is the first build fridays berlin. ​every friday in hamburg, founders and builders bring laptops, work on the thing they actually need to ship, show what moved, and talk through blockers. ​now we are bringing that format to **berlin**. ​ ​**what it is:** * ​an open work session for people building something real * ​startup work, side projects, products, prototypes, agents, workflows, decks * ​​a room full of people who would rather ship than talk about shipping ​ ​**who comes:** * ​founders * ​engineers * ​product people * ​operators * ​first-time builders and repeat founders ​ ​**what happens:** * ​open door from 4pm to 11pm * ​come at the time that works for you * ​7pm intros so everyone knows who is in the room (30s each) * ​work time, demos, feedback, and blocker-solving throughout the evening ​ ​**free.** ​bring your laptop and come ready to work on something. ​ ​**one more thing:** ​we want build fridays berlin to become a real weekly event. ​if you want to help host it long-term and grow it through beavership (our ambassador programm), come talk to us. ​more on that here: [https://ai-beavers.com/beavership](https://ai-beavers.com/beavership?utm_source=luma)

## Über diese Veranstaltung ## Der Metal Business Club startet jetzt in Berlin! Bist du Unternehmer mit einer Leidenschaft für Metal, Punk oder Hardcore? Möchtest du dein Unternehmen in einem Umfeld ausbauen, in dem Musik und Unternehmertum zusammenkommen? Dann komm zur Eröffnungsveranstaltung des Metal Business Club in Berlin! Wir organisieren monatliche Networking-Events, bei denen du dich mit anderen Unternehmern austauschen kannst, die deine Leidenschaft für härtere Musik teilen. Egal, ob du deine Sichtbarkeit erhöhen oder dich persönlich weiterentwickeln möchtest – hier bist du genau richtig. Und natürlich ist unsere Lieblingsmusik immer das verbindende Element. Bei diesem ersten Treffen erklären wir dir genau, was der Metal Business Club ist und was wir zu bieten haben. Auf dem Programm stehen folgende Themen: * Warum ist strukturiertes Networking für Unternehmer sinnvoll? * Was sind 5 praktische Tipps, um dein Netzwerk deutlich zu verbessern? Einlass ist um 19:00 Uhr, das Treffen beginnt um 19:30 Uhr. Das Treffen dauert 90 Minuten, danach bleibt reichlich Zeit für freies Networking und den Austausch persönlicher Kontakte! Das Beste daran ist, dass diese Veranstaltung völlig kostenlos ist. Sie bezahlen nur die Getränke, die Sie während oder nach dem Treffen bestellen.

We are proud to continue this free flow meet & greet session in the Bar of the social hub with guided networking and great people from different angles of the Berlin startup ecosystem! If you have a startup idea or a growing company and you want to expand your network in Berlin, then join us for the in-person 'Founder Meet & Greet' event. At this informal networking event, you can connect with other early-stage entrepreneurs, startup mentors, and advisors from the Founder Institute Berlin network. Socialize over drinks with potential co-founders, advisors, mentors and partners. Most of all, get away from the computer and have fun! ❯ **Your hosts of the day:** * Ferdinand Mühlhäuser (Business Angel & Coach, MD @ Founder Institute Berlin) * Rikke Klitskov (Marketing Director @ Founder Institute Germany) * Alexander Fahnemann (Partnerships Business Development) * Matthieu Verdeaux (Sales & Partnerships Intern @ Qonto) * Lena Weihs (Senior Partnerships Manager @Qonto) ❯ **Who should Attend?** * Anyone interested in entrepreneurship * Anyone who has a pre-seed tech company or a startup idea * Anyone interested in joining a startup accelerator * Anyone who is looking for a cofounder or would want to join a startup as a cofounder * Anyone who is looking for a modern business bank account ❯ **What is the Agenda?** * (Guided) Networking, Socializing and Drinks **❯❯ This is a live offline event, to be sure to receive our updates be sure to RSVP at** [https://fi.co/courses/meet-greet-cofounder-search-go-europe-edition/meetup](https://fi.co/courses/meet-greet-cofounder-search-go-europe-edition/meetup)**!** To join our upcoming Founder Institute program in October 2026, you can apply here: [https://fi.co/Germany](https://fi.co/Germany)**.** For more information about the investors, accelerators, incubators, and [tech events available in Berlin](https://fi.co/events/berlin), see our [list of Startup Resources](https://fi.co/startup-resources). **About Qonto:** **[Qonto](https://qonto.com/de/partners/fi)** is Europe’s leading financial management solution for founders, freelancers, and small to medium-sized businesses, serving more than 600,000 clients across eight countries. Founded by Alexandre Prot and Steve Anavi, **[Qonto](https://qonto.com/de/partners/fi)**[ ](https://qonto.com/de/creation/company-registration?utm_source=partner&utm_medium=event&utm_campaign=FIMeetup10/2025&partner_id=a0oAM000000AGMP)has been transforming business finance since 2017. The platform combines business banking, invoicing, accounting, and expense management in a single intuitive solution. Through Qonto’s company formation services, over 250,000 businesses have already been established across Europe. With more than €600 million in funding and an international team of over 1,600 employees, Qonto is redefining financial management for European businesses – with innovative products, transparent pricing, and 24/7 customer support. **Click here to open your business account:** **[https://www.qonto.com](https://qonto.com/de/partners/fi)** **About Founder Institute** The [Founder Institute](https://fi.co/berlin) is the world’s most proven network to turn ideas into fundable startups, and startups into global businesses. Since 2009, our structured accelerator programs have helped over 7,000 entrepreneurs raise over $1.75BN in funding. Based in Silicon Valley and with chapters across 100 countries, our mission is to empower communities of talented and motivated people to build impactful technology companies worldwide.

An International Event for everyone around the world looking at starting an online business to create a reliable side income or future-proof existing earnings ⚠️ **Important:** You must click the registration link in advance — selecting “Attend” on Meetup alone will NOT give you access. ***Click here > https://www.podlaunchpro.com/webinar*** to register in advance of the workshop start. *Please note : The zoom link allows you to register in advance and the workshop zoom link is emailed to you. Please join the event a few minutes before it starts.* Want to start an online income stream — without stock, design skills, or big upfront costs? Print-on-demand has become one of the simplest ways to launch an online business — and with AI, it’s now faster and more accessible than ever. In this live session, you’ll see how ordinary people are creating and selling products online using simple tools and proven methods — without needing to be technical or creative. \*\*\* \#\# 👀 What you’ll learn • How AI can help you create designs and product listings • How to find niches and keywords people are already buying • Why Etsy remains one of the easiest places to start • The exact steps to go from idea to live online store No fluff. No theory. Just a clear, practical walkthrough of how this works today. **\*\*\*** **About your host** Led by Nigel Wymer — a print-on-demand mentor with 16+ years in e-commerce and a proven track record selling on Etsy. Featured on Can You Make £10K in 10 Days?, where print-on-demand was selected as one of the simplest business models to get started. \*\*\* **Who this is for** • Complete beginners exploring online income • Anyone looking for a flexible side hustle • Existing sellers wanting to simplify and scale with AI No experience needed — everything is explained step by step. ⚠️ **Important:** You must click the registration link in advance — selecting “Attend” on Meetup alone will NOT give you access. ***Click here > https://www.podlaunchpro.com/webinar*** *Please note : The zoom link allows you to register in advance and the workshop zoom link is emailed to you. Please join the event a few minutes before it starts.* The Adapt and Thrive Events Group wholeheartedly supports the policies and principles of Meetup. We make no guarantees and we do not offer financial services or assurances. All our Meetup Events are FREE to attend.

**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/)

## **1 Million Cups Loudoun – Business Presentation** **Featuring Aida Davalos, Founder of Argon Accounting** **Wednesday\, May 13 \| 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM** **Venture X Loudoun** Join us as we welcome **Aida Davalos**, founder of **Argon Accounting**, to the 1 Million Cups Loudoun stage for a thoughtful conversation around financial clarity, intentional growth, and building a relationship-driven business. *** ## **About the Presenter** Aida is a **first-generation college graduate with a master’s degree** and an entrepreneur at heart, inspired by her family’s business roots in Ecuador. With a strong background in **corporate accounting, financial operations, tax strategy, and advisory**, her career has been focused on helping businesses make smarter financial decisions and build sustainable foundations for growth. Over the past seven years, Aida has been growing her own **boutique accounting and tax practice organically**, built on trust, relationships, and practical, real-world financial guidance. She is also actively involved with **George Mason University**, mentoring students and supporting the next generation of professionals. *** ## **About the Business** Argon Accounting provides **accounting, bookkeeping, financial advisory, and tax services** designed to help small business owners and individuals feel confident and informed about their finances. Aida’s approach focuses on making financial information **clear, approachable, and actionable**, so clients can understand what their numbers are telling them — and use that insight to make better decisions for long-term growth. *** ## **Who Aida Is Looking to Hear From** Aida would especially value feedback from: * Small business owners and founders * Service-based business operators * Marketing and brand strategy professionals * Entrepreneurs who have grown beyond referral-based business * Individuals passionate about supporting BIPOC entrepreneurs and professionals *** ## **Current Business Focus & Challenge** Aida is in the **early stages of intentional growth**, focused on building a sustainable and well-positioned business. Her biggest challenge is **gaining visibility and attracting a consistent client base**, and she is seeking feedback around: * Clearly communicating her value to small business owners * Marketing her services effectively without relying on paid advertising * Building trust and credibility as a growing business * Expanding beyond word-of-mouth while maintaining strong relationships *** ## **Why Attend?** * Gain insight into building a service-based business with intention * Provide valuable feedback on marketing, positioning, and growth strategy * Connect with entrepreneurs focused on sustainable, relationship-driven growth * Be part of a meaningful, solutions-focused conversation *** ## **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 13** for coffee, connection, and a conversation about building financial clarity and growing a business with purpose. We look forward to seeing you there.

## **1 Million Cups Loudoun – Business Presentation** **Featuring James Norris, Founder of Squeegee Samurai** **Wednesday\, May 13 \| 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM** **Venture X Loudoun** Join us as we welcome **James Norris**, founder of **Squeegee Samurai**, to the 1 Million Cups Loudoun stage for a conversation on building a service-based business from the ground up. *** ## **About the Presenter** James Norris transitioned from a career in **cybersecurity compliance** into entrepreneurship, taking a hands-on approach to building a business from scratch. Initially exploring the acquisition of an existing company, he ultimately chose to **build his own window cleaning business** after recognizing the simplicity, consistency, and opportunity within the industry. His journey reflects a growing trend of entrepreneurs moving from corporate roles into tangible, service-based businesses with clear demand and scalable potential. *** ## **About the Business** Squeegee Samurai provides **professional window cleaning services for residential and commercial clients**, delivering immediate, visible results — what James calls *“clarity through pane.”* In an industry where the fundamentals haven’t changed, Squeegee Samurai focuses on **high-quality, traditional techniques** paired with strong customer experience and operational discipline. As a solo operator, James currently manages every aspect of the business — from marketing and pricing to service delivery, quality control, and operations — while laying the groundwork for future growth. *** ## **Who James Is Looking to Hear From** James would especially value feedback from: * Business owners who have scaled service-based businesses * Operators of route-based or recurring revenue businesses * Entrepreneurs who have transitioned from corporate roles to hands-on work * Founders who have built teams from a solo operation * Anyone with experience in pricing, local marketing, or service scaling *** ## **Current Business Focus & Challenge** James is in the **early growth stage**, focused on building a foundation for scale through recurring storefront contracts and refining his pricing model. He is seeking feedback on: * Pricing strategy in a competitive, price-sensitive market * Whether to display pricing publicly or use promotional strategies * When and how to invest in advertising (where, how much, and when) * Timing and approach to hiring and team building * Balancing market penetration with long-term profitability This is a critical stage where the right decisions can significantly impact long-term growth and scalability. *** ## **Why Attend?** * Gain insight into building a service business from the ground up * Provide feedback on pricing, marketing, and scaling strategy * Connect with entrepreneurs navigating similar growth stages * Be part of a practical, real-world business conversation *** ## **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 13** for coffee, connection, and a conversation around building, pricing, and scaling a service-based business. We look forward to seeing you there.

## **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.

Are you ready to supercharge your professional circle? Join BNI Central Maryland, the Maryland Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and Team Network for a high-energy, multi-organizational networking event designed to spark new opportunities and lasting partnerships. Hosted at the beautiful Aladdin Carpet & Floors in the Gaithersburg Airpark, this isn't your average "business card exchange." It’s a strategic gathering of the region’s most motivated business owners and professionals. Event Details \- When: Thursday\, May 14th \- Time: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM \- Where: Aladdin Carpet & Floors \(Gaithersburg Airpark\) \- Registration: Secure Your Spot Here What’s in it for you? \- Exponential Reach: Meet members from three premier business organizations in one room\. \- High\-Impact Connections: Forge relationships with fellow decision\-makers across the region\. \- Great Vibes: Enjoy delicious food\, refreshments\, and a vibrant atmosphere\. \- Giveaways: Enter to win door prizes and professional perks\. Sponsorship Opportunities: Want to put your brand center stage? We have room for 2 or 3 more sponsors to showcase their business to this diverse group of professionals. If you’re ready to stand out, reach out today for details before the spots are gone! Spaces are limited. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to grow your business in a relaxed, productive, and high-energy environment. [Register now to secure your spot!](https://teamnetwork.affnetz.com/event/10666/register)

Join Nova Subto Meetup Up for an exclusive Business Strategy Roundtable where entrepreneurs and business professionals can network and discuss strategies for mastering entrepreneurship. This event will provide a platform for small business owners to connect, share insights, and learn from each other's experiences. Whether you are a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this meetup is designed to foster growth and development in the business community. Don't miss this chance to connect with like-minded individuals and take your entrepreneurial journey to the next level. ***IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO BRING YOUR DEAL PLEASE FILL OUT THIS*** [https://surl.li/vtgoma](https://surl.li/vtgoma)

Network with an average of 60+ business professionals, all attendees get an opportunity to give a 30 second elevator pitch, enjoy a light breakfast, 10 minute educational presentation on topics that change weekly, and enjoy networking before and after the meet up.

**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!