Filling your September calendar? Consider adding these events

September Events Roundup: 8 Baltimore events as the weather cools down

As the breeze of September starts to whisper through Baltimore, technologists and entrepreneurs, it's time to ask yourselves: “Do you remember the 21st night of September?” This September (not just on the 21st), various organizations invite you to join them in a series of events that will stimulate your mind and ignite your innovative spirit. Just like Earth, Wind & Fire's lyrics, these events aim to create a memorable harmony of ideas, bringing together the brightest minds in the city.

So, as the days grow shorter, let your ambitions grow taller, join these folks for a September to remember and set the tone for a season of progress.

Equitech Tuesdays (every Tuesday, 6 p.m. )

Through the entirety of September, UpSurge Baltimore is keeping the momentum alive with its regular local innovation scene happy hour, hosted at Guilford Hall Brewery. If you're seeking an opportunity to engage with fellow professionals — both current and prospective — within Baltimore's dynamic tech and entrepreneurship network, this gathering is an essential addition to your calendar. Location: Guilford Hall Brewery, 1611 Guilford Ave.

Information Session for JHU’s Social Innovation Lab (Tuesday, Sept. 5, 6:30-8 p.m.)

Applications for the Social Innovation Lab (SIL) at Johns Hopkins University (JHU) are available until Oct. 1. SIL is designed to fast-track emerging ventures and visionary leaders aiming to create positive change in both Baltimore and the global landscape. The program offers financial support, guidance, mentoring, training, technical resources, office facilities and valuable networking opportunities. These resources help drive the growth of innovative, purpose-driven companies and disruptive technologies, enabling them to flourish sustainably and generate meaningful outcomes. Participants will collaborate closely with Anthony Watters, the director of the Social Innovation Lab.

For those interested, there will be a virtual information session providing an opportunity to interact with Anthony Watters and receive application assistance. Location: Virtual. Registration is free. Sign up here.

Novella Center for Entrepreneurship Launch Event (Tuesday, Sept. 5, 5:30-8 p.m.)

Join the official launch of the Novella Center for Entrepreneurship, hosted by Conscious Venture Lab. Witness the introduction of Cohort 10 from the renowned Conscious Venture Lab Accelerator Program, which is set to begin its journey the same week. Enjoy insights from industry leaders, acknowledge key supporters, meet Cohort 10's inspiring entrepreneurs, network within Baltimore's tech ecosystem, reflect on a decade of growth and savor local flavors. The Novella Center aims to democratize entrepreneurship, leveraging a decade of experience to foster partnerships, redefine business norms and forge paths to generational wealth. Location: Conscious Venture Lab, 250 W. Dickman St. Registration is free. Sign up here.

Deadline for rent-free retail space in Waverly (Deadline: Sept. 8)

The "Root to Success" contest is on the lookout for local entrepreneurs in Baltimore who are dedicated to their community and eager to expand in the Waverly Business District. Starting on March 29, the initiative aims to identify six innovative entrepreneurs with the potential to win space in the Waverly Business District. Among them, four retail-oriented businesses will be granted a year's worth of rent-free retail space at the Waverly Gateway building, along with a budget for improving and customizing their space. Two office-focused businesses will also receive a rent-free, fully furnished office suite at the OfficeFlex Executive Center, located just across the street.

The winners won't just benefit from free space: They will also be provided with training and assistance from partner organizations covering various aspects of business management, including marketing, day-to-day operations, financial matters and legal guidance. Additionally, they will have access to different financing choices. Learn more about “Root to Success.”

Ignite Capital Enterprise Showcase (Friday, Sept. 15, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.)

Investors and resource partners are welcome to join Ignite Capital’s Fourth Annual Social Enterprise Showcase, where 10 social entrepreneurs from Baltimore City will present their plans for a community that's healthier, more prosperous and better connected. Attendees have a vital role in advancing these initiatives by directly investing in these enterprises. Additionally, they can foster connections to funding sources, clients, customers and markets that contribute to revenue growth. Your network's resources can also provide valuable support. Location: Coppin State University, 2500 W. North Ave. Admission is free. Sign up here.

Inaugural Elevate and Engage MBE Networking Event (Tues, Sept. 26, 8 a.m.-3 p.m.)

The Maryland Minority Business Counts (MMBC) Initiative is revealing its upcoming series, the Elevate and Engage MBE Networking Events. These events are designed to foster connections among Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs) and facilitate opportunities for state and municipal contracts.

Comprising a coalition of advocates, business leaders, civic representatives and community stakeholders, MMBC aims to support both existing and prospective Black business proprietors throughout Maryland. MMBC welcomes all to partake in its effort to boost recognition for Black businesses within Maryland and contribute to their triumphs. Interested individuals are encouraged to enroll for the MBE Summer 2023 event Gov. Wes Moore will be in attendance as the keynote speaker. Location: Coppin State University, 2500 W. North Ave. Admission is free. Sign up here.

Betamore’s “Mastering Marketing” Course (Wednesday-Thursday, Sept. 27, 9 a.m.-Sept. 28, 4 p.m.)

Marketing expert Nichole Kelly, the author of the book “How to Measure Social Media,” leads this intensive course that aims to help startup founders create their first marketing plan. According to the event description, attendees can expect to figure out marketing strategies for various stages of their business journey, as well as make marketing an integral part of team-building and fundraising. Attendees must have a laptop, as well as access to Google Sheets, Google Docs and/or other similar platforms for word processing and charting. Location: TBA. Course registration is $500. Sign up here.

Managing Founder Stress and Mental Health (Thursday, Sept. 28, 4:30-6:30 p.m.)

Kelly, Betamore board chairman Greg Cangialosi and others will appear in this moderated discussion about how to handle the mental challenges that founders may encounter. Location: TBA. Attendance is $15-$28.52, depending on ticket tier. Sign up here.

Editor's note: Today’s newsletter will be our last until the Tuesday after Labor Day. Have a wonderful long weekend!