8:30-9:30AM - Keynote Speaker 9:30-10AM - In Person Networking A distinguished panel of venture capitalists will discuss current trends and what investors look for when deciding whether or not to fund your new venture. Experts will share real-world experiences that provide insight into how investment decisions are made. This is helpful for anyone interested in commercializing their venture or investors who want to hone their skills. Panelists include representative from Central Coast Ventures, Entrada Ventures and Santa Cruz Ventures.

Register Learn How to Set Up Your Company with QuickBooks Selling: invoices, sales receipts, payments, deposits, credit memos, and customer statements Buying: bills, bill payments, checks, bill payment stubs, and credit memos Inventory: purchase orders, receive items, adjust inventory Sales Taxes: set up, adjust, pay, and report sales taxes Damon Watkins is the Director of Finance & Operations for Cal Poly Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship. He is a motivated, personable business professional with a 15+ year track record in multiple aspects of financial control, management and policies/procedures. He prides himself on having strong communication skills, and is accustomed to working with sensitive and confidential records, always protecting and maintaining confidentiality.

SBDC Staff will be attending America's SBDC 44th Annual Conference in Nashville, TN. Each year, America’s SBDC has an annual conference where attendees gather from SBDCs worldwide to obtain professional development to help them grow as an adviser and help grow the thousands of small businesses they work with every year.   We appreciate your patience as staff attends this conference, for immediate assistance please email slosbdc@gmail.com

Register   After three months of rigorous work, Cal Poly's most promising entrepreneurs are ready to showcase their startups. See how three months of intensive workshops, dedicated mentorship, hard work and collaboration have prepared our teams to turn their startup ideas into real, viable business ventures. Watch their pitches and network with the teams to learn more about their startups.   Food and drink will also be available for purchase. Can’t make it in-person? No worries! Select our virtual ticket option* to tune into the event via YouTube Live for FREE. In-person seating is limited, so don’t wait — order your ticket today to reserve your spot. In Person (General Admission & Students): $10 Virtual Viewing (General Admission & Students): FREE

Register Are you passionate about food and dreaming of owning your own restaurant? Join us for an informative and hands-on workshop led by local restaurateur Ben Arrona, who will guide you through the essential steps of launching a successful restaurant business. In this comprehensive workshop, Ben will share his expertise gained from years of experience in the restaurant industry. Whether you're a seasoned chef looking to venture into entrepreneurship or an aspiring restaurateur, this workshop is designed to provide you with the fundamental knowledge needed to turn your culinary dreams into a thriving reality. Workshop Highlights: Defining Your Business Model: Discover the various business models available for restaurants and learn how to choose the one that aligns best with your vision. We will delve into key considerations such as dine-in, takeout, catering, and more. Navigating Licensing and Regulations: Obtaining the necessary licenses and approvals is crucial for any restaurant. Learn how to navigate local government regulations, ensuring that your business operates within legal boundaries. Manager's Food Handlers Certificate: Gain insights into the importance of food safety and hygiene. We will guide you through the process of studying for and obtaining a manager's food handlers certificate, a crucial credential for running […]

Register This month, we are joined by the winners of the Audience and Investor Choice Awards from AngelCon 2023: Quantum Energy, DEMO Studios, and Ryde. Gain insights into the remarkable journeys of these innovative startups as they provide updates on their companies since their outstanding performance at the competition. Investor Choice Winners: Ryde Technologies ($100k Investment): A peer-to-peer travel marketplace connecting student drivers with riders for long-distance travel. DEMO Studio ($40k Investment): A platform where creators can sell collaboration rights to their content, earning money in the process. Audience Choice Winner: Quantum Energy, Inc ($1300 Prize): Creators of a comprehensive AI-driven software tool providing data for the cleantech industry.   Engage in stimulating discussions, sip on delicious coffee, and foster valuable connections with like-minded individuals in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur seeking inspiration, an investor scouting for promising opportunities, or simply someone who appreciates the power of entrepreneurship, join us for a great morning of learning, connection, and collaboration. Instructions: There are two attendance options: In-Person: In person event will take place at the Cal Poly Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (872 Higuera St., San Luis Obispo, CA 93401) Virtual: Attendees will recieve Zoom login information* the morning […]