A structured month, hybrid experience

Like many organizations in 2020, COVID-19 made us pivot. We re-imagined our Annual San Diego Startup Week conference and shifted to a month-long hybrid experience that features digital workshops and in-person events!

Coming to you virtually October 1 – 29, 2021, #SDSM2021 is a month of hybrid content and experiences that will bring together entrepreneurs, investors, mentors, executives, and talent to connect, educate, and inspire the San Diego innovation ecosystem.

Same rad speakers, same killer community, and everything else we know and love about Startup Week…and then some.

We know not everyone is ready for in-person events so we’ve structured tickets to enable folks to add on the in-person activations for an additional price.

Check out our website for more information, FAQs, and all of the 2021 fun!

#SDSM2021 Experience Highlights

• Track Content Week: Monday, October 4th – Thursday, October 7th, the content will go from 4 – 9:30 pm daily structured across our 8 functions based tracks. Check the schedule & add sessions to your calendar!
• Happy Hour, Startup Fair & Partner Expo: Hosted Friday, October 8th by Downtown Works at the Carlsbad location, we’ll welcome back the community with an outdoor in-person outdoor event featuring lite bites, beverages, and all the startups! Make sure you have your ticket & if you’re a company interested in tabling we still have a few tables available for purchase.
• #SDSM2021 Incubator: In collaboration with Techstars & Ryan Kuder, this is no cost, no equity program with expert training, mentorship, and community to help grow and scale 10 awesome startups. Expert led sessions will be accessible to the Startup Month general audience. Incubator participants will receive additional mentorship from experts. This kicks off Monday, Oct.11th so hurry & apply now!
• Pitch Competition & Tournament: In partnership with Tech Coast Angels & Connect, hand-selected startups from our university and larger startup ecosystem will compete in the toughest pitch battle around! Our all-star judging panel will crown the lightweight & heavyweight champs. Winners will receive the opportunity to pitch in front of TCA, get complimentary mentor sessions with LogicBoost Labs, and a fellowship to the Founders Institute Program. Some of our judges include: State Farm Ventures, Moodoos Investments, Ad Astra, Connect & More. Apply to pitch now! Deadline Oct. 5th
• Startup Month Awards Party & Reception: Hosted on Friday, October 29th by Alexandria Real Estate Equities at the brand new Alexandria Tech Center in Sorrento Valley, we’re bringing together an intimate group of 150 of the ecosystem’s founders, investors, and community champions for a night of networking, entertainment and recognition of five community members, leaders, and founders. Nominate someone for an award & purchase your ticket today!

Startup San Diego In-Person Event Policy

Startup San Diego is following all county and local Covid-19 regulations and guidance. Our community’s health and safety is our top priority. The County is following the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s guidance that recommends everyone wear a face-covering in indoor public settings, whether you’ve been vaccinated or not. We strongly recommend that you are vaccinated before attending any in-person gatherings. Virtual options will be provided where possible for those who are not able to be vaccinated or are uncomfortable with attending in-person gatherings.