Events and Programs
The Institute for Innovation and Economic Development offers the following events and programs to support entrepreneurship and innovation in the Monterey Bay region.
Business Forge
The Business Forge is an incubator designed to help startup founders navigate today's dynamic business landscape. Many founders, particularly in communities with limited access to industry networks, struggle to obtain the guidance and resources needed for success. The Business Forge addresses this by connecting emerging entrepreneurs with seasoned professionals who provide essential mentorship, industry insights, and strategic advice. Learn more at startupmontereybay.com
Startup Factory Monterey Bay
This event is a creative and collaborative three-day educational event where anyone can develop and pitch new startup ideas. It's about pitching, business model creation, prototyping, designing, and market validation, in a friendly and supportive team environment. Learn how to think, work, and build like a startup at the annual Startup Factory Monterey Bay. Over an action-packed three days, you’ll meet the very best mentors, investors, and co-founders. and sponsors to show you how to get more done faster -- and, maybe even start that business. The dates for the 2024 Startup Factory will be November 2nd at the BIT Building. Learn more at startupmontereybay.com.
Startup Monterey Bay Connect
A monthly meeting where entrepreneurs and aspiring entrepreneurs, innovators, local start-ups, and businesses can meet, learn, tell others about what you’re up to, find out what they’re up to, and enjoy the camaraderie with other entrepreneurs. Investors, entrepreneurs, local businesses, and anyone interested in the latest innovations, trends in business and technology, or the latest and greatest ideas should come! Startup Monterey Bay Connect meets on the second Tuesday of each month. Learn more at startupmontereybay.com.
Startup Challenge Monterey Bay
Startup Challenge Monterey Bay is a business competition and accelerator program that supports the founding, funding, and growth of new and innovative businesses in the Monterey Bay region. It offers workshops, feedback, and mentoring to empower entrepreneurs in a competitive process. Nothing inspires and prepares entrepreneurs to bring their ideas to market like Startup Challenge Monterey Bay! Learn more at startupchallengemb.com.
Winter Night Market
The Winter Night Market at CSUMB is a festive celebration of community, creativity, and collaboration, featuring offerings from local vendors and small businesses from the Monterey Tri-County area and CSUMB. Hosted in partnership with the Institute of Innovation and Economic Development, Associated Students, the Music Department, and the Entrepreneurship Club, this event offers a unique evening of handmade goods, local treats, and live music. Join us on Thursday, December 5th, from 4-8 PM in the OSU Ballroom.