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DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20250709T143000
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DTSTAMP:20260416T223658
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SUMMARY:Startup Coaching: Petoskey
DESCRIPTION:Happens the second Wednesday of the month. No RSVP required. Just show up and bring your questions! \nConnect with startup experts who can help you grow.\nStartup coaches share their time\, wisdom\, and connections to help entrepreneurs build successful businesses and avoid common mistakes. They can provide guidance to entrepreneurs with new and growing businesses on a full range of topics including business planning and entity formation\, funding strategy\, sales\, operations\, human resources\, and much more. \nNew business owners routinely state that mentorship and connections are very important. However\, entrepreneurs must be open and committed to learning\, as well as willing to make the time to meet with their coach. \nWhat to expect:\n\nFor your small business\, startup\, or idea\nA private\, one-on-one meeting with a startup expert\nTroubleshoot your business goals and challenges\nHonest\, supportive feedback\nRecommendations on resources and tools\n\nMeet your coach:\nCraig Wesley serves as Executive Director of 20Fathoms\, leading the growing organization and hub of startup support services in Northwest Michigan. Under Craig’s leadership\, 20Fathoms provides high-quality educational programming and resources for the region’s entrepreneurs\, as well as a vibrant coworking space in Traverse City.   \nA veteran of both Silicon Valley and Midwest startups\, Craig has 25 years of business and executive experience working with growing companies. Most recently Craig supported executives in consulting roles\, providing hands-on operational expertise at pivotal growth points\, including serving as a Strategic Advisor for local trulyfreehome.com and the Executive Vice President of Strategic Partnerships for trulyfreemarket.com. 
URL:https://20fathoms.org/event/drop-in-startup-coaching-petoskey-3/2025-07-09/
LOCATION:North Coast Work\, 417 Howard St.\, Petoskey\, MI
CATEGORIES:Coaching
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://20fathoms.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Petoskey-2.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20250710T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20250710T120000
DTSTAMP:20260416T223658
CREATED:20250702T141635Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250708T175957Z
UID:10000442-1752138000-1752148800@20fathoms.org
SUMMARY:Branding\, a 20Fathoms Breakfast Lab
DESCRIPTION:Learn how to tell your brand’s story\n\n\nYour brand is more than a logo — it’s the story you tell\, the emotions you spark\, and the experience you create.  \nJoin branding expert Jaime Edmondson for a hands-on workshop designed to help startups define and communicate their brand with clarity and confidence. Whether you’re just starting out\, you’re looking to sharpen your messaging\, or your startup’s growth momentum has stagnated\, this session will walk you through why branding matters and how to use it as a powerful growth tool. Expect a mix of expert insights\, playful & nerdy interactive activities\, and practical takeaways you can apply right away.  \nYou’ll learn: \n\nWhy branding is critical in the early stages of your startup \nHow to know if you’re ready for professional branding vs putting it together yourself \nHow to craft a clear\, authentic brand story \nExercises to define your brand voice and connect with your audience \n\nAbout Breakfast Lab \nBreakfast Lab is a weekly event at 20Fathoms where you’ll get expert guidance to help meet your most pressing startup needs\, providing access to the right tools and the right people at the right time.   \nThese events are held in person and there is no cost to attend. Coffee and a light breakfast are provided. Walk-ins are welcome.  \nThere are two parts to each Breakfast Lab:  \n\nStartup Workshop: 9 – 10:30 am \nStartup Coaching: 10:30 am – noon \n\nAttend both parts\, or just one.  \nLearn more about Breakfast Lab.   \nWho should attend: \nBreakfast Lab was designed specifically to support:  \n\nIdea and early-stage startup founders with scalable innovations and technologies \nEntrepreneurs navigating strategic growth or a pivot in their business model \n\nPrerequisite: \nYou are encouraged to have your business model canvas outlined to benefit from the Breakfast Lab workshops.   \nDon’t have a canvas yet? No sweat – join a Startup Bootcamp to get started or Download the instructions and a blank canvas to work through on your own time.  \n\n\nMeet this week’s facilitator:\nJaime Edmondson is a Traverse City native\, Michigan State University grad\, and the founder of Spellbound Creative Studio. As a lifelong multi-passionate creative who has also always enjoyed puzzles\, learning\, and logical challenges\, she delights in combining the left & right sides of her brain to create something truly unique. She earned her degree in Digital Media Communications with a minor in Game Design & Development\, heavily focusing on environment art and visual storytelling. \nAfter graduating from MSU\, she moved back to Traverse City with her husband and their four parrots–a flock which has since doubled in size–and she has worked as an in-house marketing designer\, a 3D generalist\, a freelance creative\, and a software tester in the years since. After having her son in 2023\, she knew that testing software was not what she was meant to be doing with her career and dove back into entrepreneurship head-first. \nShe launched Spellbound Creative Studio in 2024–a premier creative studio currently specializing in brand development and website design via strategic and immersive storytelling. \nSince launching\, she has helped ecommerce and service-based business owners find alignment within their brand\, audience\, messaging\, visuals\, and overall experience\, allowing them to show up in their businesses with excitement and confidence\, smoothing the way for a more genuine connection with their customers and clients\, and fostering brand loyalty. \nSupporting Partners:\n\n\n\nAbout 20Fathoms:\n20Fathoms is the home of entrepreneurship and innovation in Northwest Michigan. Based in Traverse City and serving all of Northwest Lower Michigan\, 20Fathoms is a nonprofit startup incubator and resource center for entrepreneurs and growing businesses. The organization works with entrepreneurs of all stages and industries\, and specializes in working with technology-focused companies. Programs include startup education\, business coaching\, connections\, funding\, and general support. 
URL:https://20fathoms.org/event/branding-a-20fathoms-breakfast-lab/
LOCATION:20Fathoms\, 10850 East Traverse Highway\, #Ste 4400\, Traverse City\, MI\, 49684\, United States
CATEGORIES:Breakfast Lab
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20250710T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20250710T160000
DTSTAMP:20260416T223658
CREATED:20250131T171910Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250821T132222Z
UID:10000437-1752152400-1752163200@20fathoms.org
SUMMARY:Startup Coaching: Traverse City
DESCRIPTION:Happens every Thursday. Appointments recommended. Drop in coaching is also available. Just show up and bring your questions! \nConnect with startup experts who can help you grow.\nStartup coaches share their time\, wisdom\, and connections to help entrepreneurs build successful businesses and avoid common mistakes. They can provide guidance to entrepreneurs with new and growing businesses on a full range of topics including business planning and entity formation\, funding strategy\, sales\, operations\, human resources\, and much more. \nNew business owners routinely state that mentorship and connections are very important. However\, entrepreneurs must be open and committed to learning\, as well as willing to make the time to meet with their coach. \nSchedule an appointment in advance or drop in. \nWhat to expect:\n\nFor your small business\, startup\, or idea\nA private\, one-on-one meeting with a startup expert\nTroubleshoot your business goals and challenges\nHonest\, supportive feedback\nRecommendations on resources and tools
URL:https://20fathoms.org/event/drop-in-startup-coaching-traverse-city-2-2/2025-07-10/
CATEGORIES:Coaching
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://20fathoms.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Traverse-City.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20250711T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20250711T133000
DTSTAMP:20260416T223658
CREATED:20250616T142947Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250616T143256Z
UID:10000419-1752229800-1752240600@20fathoms.org
SUMMARY:Business Legal Assistance Office Hours
DESCRIPTION:Schedule free consultation time with Varnum LLP!\n\n\nAre you a founder or early-stage company with a particular legal question or issue that has you stumped? Do you not know what you don’t know\, legally? What questions do you have that you wish you could discuss with an attorney? Varnum Law can assist and is willing to provide you with a free\, initial consultation meeting to help answer your burning questions! \nVarnum is a full-service Michigan-based law firm\, with more than 180 attorneys in six offices\, that represents a diverse range of business and legal interests for startup\, early-stage\, and large companies throughout Michigan and the U.S. Their client-focused approach cultivates the personal relationship between lawyer and client\, while also ensuring access to the full resources of the firm. \nSessions are 45 minutes long. Upon registration\, you’ll be contacted via the email you provide during registration to schedule your individual time within the 10:30 am – 1:30 pm window. \nWe’re excited to host these office hours and want to ensure we can accommodate everyone who is interested in scheduling time. If something comes up and you’re unable to make it\, please let us know as soon as possible so we can offer your spot to someone else. \nRegistration is requested at least one week before Office Hours date to ensure availability of attorneys. Registration (if spots remain) will close the Wednesday before Office Hours at the end of day. Registrants will be contacted after registration closes with their assigned time. \nPresenting partner:
URL:https://20fathoms.org/event/business-legal-assistance-office-hours-8/
LOCATION:20Fathoms\, 10850 East Traverse Highway\, #Ste 4400\, Traverse City\, MI\, 49684\, United States
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20250715T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20250715T110000
DTSTAMP:20260416T223658
CREATED:20250626T143917Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250626T144102Z
UID:10000421-1752573600-1752577200@20fathoms.org
SUMMARY:Michigan’s Startup Scene: Past\, Present\, and Future
DESCRIPTION:Learn about entrepreneurship in Michigan\n\n\nJoin us for an in-depth look at Michigan’s Startup Scene: Past\, Present\, and Future with Pete Martin from the MSU Research Foundation. We’ll explore the transformation of Michigan’s entrepreneurial landscape\, from a state once plagued by “brain drain” to a thriving hub of innovation and growth. \nPete will unpack why it’s historically been harder for Midwest founders\, how that tide is turning thanks to Michigan grit\, SmartZones\, and state-backed funding\, and why investors are starting to recognize the Midwest as a smarter bet. \nThere will be a 30-minute presentation followed by a 30-minute Q&A. \nAbout the presenter:\nPete Martin is a key connector and operator in Michigan’s entrepreneurial ecosystem\, serving as Director of Portfolio Management at the MSU Research Foundation. In his work\, Pete oversees a portfolio of hundreds of active companies\, helping them raise capital\, connect with customers\, and grow faster. A former venture-backed founder himself\, Pete brings urgency\, clarity\, and real-world experience to every conversation. \nPreviously\, Pete was Head of Connection at Michigan Founders Fund\, where he helped shape the statewide founder community and built deep relationships across investors\, startups\, and institutions. Today\, Pete is widely recognized as one of the go-to people in Michigan’s startup landscape. \n\n\nAbout 20Fathoms:\nBased in Traverse City\, 20Fathoms is a nonprofit organization and the hub for entrepreneurship and innovation in Northwest Michigan. The 20Fathoms team works with entrepreneurs of all stages and industries\, and also offers specialized services to meet the unique needs of technology-focused startups. Programs include startup education\, business coaching\, TCNewTech pitch competitions\, access to capital\, a vibrant coworking space\, and general resources and support. For more information visit: https://20fathoms.org/
URL:https://20fathoms.org/event/michigans-startup-scene-past-present-and-future/
LOCATION:20Fathoms\, 10850 East Traverse Highway\, #Ste 4400\, Traverse City\, MI\, 49684\, United States
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20250715T163000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20250715T193000
DTSTAMP:20260416T223658
CREATED:20250529T130029Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250529T131313Z
UID:10000406-1752597000-1752607800@20fathoms.org
SUMMARY:TCNewTech Pitch Competition
DESCRIPTION:Community\, connections\, and innovation\, plus a deep dive into bluetech\n\n\nThe TCNewTech Pitch Competition is a fun and free public event featuring Michigan-based startups. Cheer on founders as they pitch their innovative business ideas on stage and compete for cash awards. \nPitch presenters represent the wide variety of growing businesses in Michigan. Each presenter will be allowed 5 minutes to present their business\, followed by a 5 minute Q&A with the judges. A panel of expert judges will review each startup\, determine the best and most innovative idea\, and audience members will vote for their favorite. See who will walk away with the First\, Second\, and Audience Choice Award! \nBeyond the main stage\, build connections with entrepreneurs\, innovators\, students\, and startup enthusiasts who are driving the region’s growing startup community. Networking opportunities are available before the show from 4:30 – 5:30 and afterward\, as well. \nSpecial feature! Michigan’s Bluetech Industry\nWhile the judges deliberate\, it’s your opportunity to keep learning about the latest innovation in Michigan from our featured speakers highlighting the latest in the bluetech startup industry: \n\nPeter Scott\, Entrepreneur in Residence\, 20Fathoms\n\n\nBrittany VanderBeek\, Director of Business Development\, AquaAction\n\n\nEd Bailey\,Director of Program and Portfolio Development\, Northern Michigan College – Great Lakes Water Studies Institute\n\nAlso\, come early and explore the expo\, where local and regional bluetech organizations and initiatives will share their work. \n20Fathoms plans to take photos and video during this event. By attending the event\, you agree to being photographed and filmed\, which may be used for marketing purposes. \nEvent Schedule\n4:30 – 5:30 pm: Doors open! Visit the expo in the lobby and learn about innovative bluetech organizations and initiatives. Cash bar. \n5:30 – 6:45 pm: Pitch competition. \n6:45 – 7:30 pm: Networking. \n7:30 pm – ?: Afterparty! Connect with pitch presenters and others in our entrepreneurial community. \nParking\nThere are several surface lots and street parking around the City Opera House\, as well as the Larry C. Hardy Parking Deck two blocks to the east on Front Street. \nApply to pitch at TCNewTech!\nApplications to pitch at TCNewTech will be open until September 9. \nApplicants submitted by June 6 will be considered for both the July 15 and September 9 event. Applications submitted after June 6 will only be considered for the September 9 event. \nEntrepreneurs who are women\, BIPOC\, Native American\, 2SLGBTQIA+\, veterans\, and individuals with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. \nFinalists will receive personalized\, in-depth support as they prepare to present their business from the main stage and get ready to reach their next business goals. This includes coaching\, coworking passes\, and more! \nGet all the details about pitching at TCNewTech. \nApply here. \n\n\nPresenting partner\n\n\n\nSupporting Partners\n\n\n\n\nAbout TCNewTech\nA program of 20Fathoms\, TCNewTech is a recurring pitch competition supported by tech enthusiasts\, businesses\, and entrepreneurs. Founded in 2015 as a way to connect local tech professionals\, TCNewTech is a critical component in Traverse City’s growing startup community. Since its founding\, more than 250 companies have pitched and $60\,000 in pitch awards have been given to startups. \n\n\nAbout 20Fathoms\nBased in Traverse City\, 20Fathoms is a nonprofit organization and the hub for entrepreneurship and innovation in Northwest Michigan. The 20Fathoms team works with entrepreneurs of all stages and industries\, and also offers specialized services to meet the unique needs of technology-focused startups. Programs include startup education\, business coaching\, TCNewTech pitch competitions\, access to capital\, a vibrant coworking space\, and general resources and support. For more information visit: https://20fathoms.org/
URL:https://20fathoms.org/event/tcnewtech-pitch-competition-6/
LOCATION:City Opera House\, 106 E Front St\, Traverse City\, MI\, 49684\, United States
CATEGORIES:Coaching,Networking,Pitch
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://20fathoms.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/TCNT.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20250716T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20250716T110000
DTSTAMP:20260416T223658
CREATED:20250131T161618Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250721T183642Z
UID:10000422-1752656400-1752663600@20fathoms.org
SUMMARY:Startup Coaching: Manistee
DESCRIPTION:Happens the third Wednesday of the month. Appointments recommended. Drop in coaching is also available. Just show up and bring your questions! \nConnect with startup experts who can help you grow.\nStartup coaches share their time\, wisdom\, and connections to help entrepreneurs build successful businesses and avoid common mistakes. They can provide guidance to entrepreneurs with new and growing businesses on a full range of topics including business planning and entity formation\, funding strategy\, sales\, operations\, human resources\, and much more. \nNew business owners routinely state that mentorship and connections are very important. However\, entrepreneurs must be open and committed to learning\, as well as willing to make the time to meet with their coach. \nSchedule an appointment in advance or drop in. \nWhat to expect:\n\nFor your small business\, startup\, or idea\nA private\, one-on-one meeting with a startup expert\nTroubleshoot your business goals and challenges\nHonest\, supportive feedback\nRecommendations on resources and tools\n\nMeet your coach:\nDelaney Keating is the Director of Entrepreneurship & Commercialization at 20Fathoms. In this role she leads startup services programming at 20Fathoms and oversees our business incubation and acceleration initiatives\, access to capital program\, and technology transfer. \nDelaney has spent her career in entrepreneurship\, startups\, and technology. Prior to moving to Michigan and joining 20Fathoms\, Delaney was Managing Director of Pando Telecom where she led the company to 10x growth over 12 months. She was also the Executive Director of Startup Colorado where she developed the organization from the ground up\, establishing a first-of-its-kind statewide rural startup network. Additionally she served as Co-founder of Catapult Outdoor Industry Accelerator\, Founder and Creative Director of RoShamBo: Marketing + Creative\, and Director and Small Business Consultant for the Colorado Small Business Development Center Network.
URL:https://20fathoms.org/event/drop-in-startup-coaching-manistee-2/2025-07-16/
LOCATION:Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce\, 400 River St\, Manistee\, MI
CATEGORIES:Coaching
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://20fathoms.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Manistee-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20250716T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20250716T190000
DTSTAMP:20260416T223658
CREATED:20250529T130031Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250529T130852Z
UID:10000411-1752685200-1752692400@20fathoms.org
SUMMARY:Women in Tech Meetup - Traverse City
DESCRIPTION:Join us for connection\, empowerment\, and lots of fun!\n\n\nEach month Women in Tech gathers to build community and support amongst women working in\, or interested in\, the tech industry and tech-related roles. \nThis meetup is casual\, fun\, and easy to drop into. We talk about what we’re currently working on\, share our stories\, and pool our collected expertise to support each other on our journeys. \nThis informal meetup is meant to help women build local connections and work on their professional growth (yeah\, support systems!). Gatherings are often made up of half-returning and half-new women\, creating a welcoming and approachable energy. \nThis event is free and open to all\, including students! Light snacks will be provided. Registration is requested to ensure ample seating\, but walk-ins are always welcome. Look for the Women in Tech/20Fathoms signage. \nWe can’t wait to see you! \nThank you to our event partner:
URL:https://20fathoms.org/event/women-in-tech-meetup-traverse-city-5/
LOCATION:Earthen Ales\, 1371 Gray Drive\, ##200\, Traverse City\, MI\, 49684\, United States
CATEGORIES:Networking,Women in Tech Meetup
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://20fathoms.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Women-in-Tech.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20250717T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20250717T120000
DTSTAMP:20260416T223659
CREATED:20250710T184006Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250710T184814Z
UID:10000444-1752742800-1752753600@20fathoms.org
SUMMARY:MVP Development & Product-Market Fit\, a 20Fathoms Breakfast Lab
DESCRIPTION:Define your minimum viable product (MVP) and develop a plan to test and refine it\n\n\nWhether you’re just starting out with an idea or ready to start up\, Breakfast Lab takes your business model to the next level. \nIn this week’s session facilitated by Brittany Vanderbeek\, you’ll learn how to define your minimum viable product (MVP) and develop a plan to test and refine it. \nWe’ll focus on:\n\nPrototyping\nGathering feedback\nIterating toward product-market fit\n\nAbout Breakfast Lab\nBreakfast Lab is a weekly event at 20Fathoms where you’ll get expert guidance to help meet your most pressing startup needs\, providing access to the right tools and the right people at the right time. \nThese events are held in person and there is no cost to attend. Coffee and a light breakfast are provided. Walk-ins are welcome. \nThere are two parts to each Breakfast Lab: \n\nStartup Workshop: 9 – 10:30 am\n\n\nStartup Coaching: 10:30 am – noon\n\nAttend both parts\, or just one. \nLearn more about Breakfast Lab. \nWho should attend:\nBreakfast Lab was designed specifically to support: \n\nIdea and early-stage startup founders with scalable innovations and technologies\n\n\nEntrepreneurs navigating strategic growth or a pivot in their business model\n\nPrerequisite:\nYou need to have your business model canvas outlined to benefit from the Breakfast Lab workshops. \nDon’t have a canvas yet? No sweat – join a Business Model Kick-off or Startup Bootcamp to get started. \nMeet this week’s facilitator:\nBrittany VanderBeek\, founder of Illuminate Opportunity LLC\, operates at the nexus of business\, higher education\, and the nonprofit sector\, championing business as a force for good and preparing the next generation for success. She is passionate about helping individuals and organizations innovate and positively impact the world. \nBrittany’s diverse experience spans sustainability strategy consulting at BrownFlynn\, Michelin’s Global Leadership Program\, corporate philanthropy and ESG strategy at Hagerty\, fundraising and community engagement at 20Fathoms\, teaching design thinking and innovation at Northwestern Michigan College\, and business development at AquaAction. \nShe has an International MBA from the University of South Carolina and a BBA from the University of Michigan. In the community\, she serves on the Grand Traverse Bay Watershed Center board and is a Traverse Connect Creative Coast Northern Navigator. \nPresenting Partner:\n\n\n\nSupporting Partner:\n\n\n\nAbout 20Fathoms:\n20Fathoms is the home of entrepreneurship and innovation in Northwest Michigan. Based in Traverse City and serving all of Northwest Lower Michigan\, 20Fathoms is a nonprofit startup incubator and resource center for entrepreneurs and growing businesses. The organization works with entrepreneurs of all stages and industries\, and specializes in working with technology-focused companies. Programs include startup education\, business coaching\, connections\, funding\, and general support.
URL:https://20fathoms.org/event/breakfast-lab-mvp-development-product-market-fit-5/
LOCATION:20Fathoms\, 10850 East Traverse Highway\, #Ste 4400\, Traverse City\, MI\, 49684\, United States
CATEGORIES:Breakfast Lab,Networking
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://20fathoms.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/3.jpg
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20250717T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20250717T160000
DTSTAMP:20260416T223659
CREATED:20250131T171910Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250821T132222Z
UID:10000438-1752757200-1752768000@20fathoms.org
SUMMARY:Startup Coaching: Traverse City
DESCRIPTION:Happens every Thursday. Appointments recommended. Drop in coaching is also available. Just show up and bring your questions! \nConnect with startup experts who can help you grow.\nStartup coaches share their time\, wisdom\, and connections to help entrepreneurs build successful businesses and avoid common mistakes. They can provide guidance to entrepreneurs with new and growing businesses on a full range of topics including business planning and entity formation\, funding strategy\, sales\, operations\, human resources\, and much more. \nNew business owners routinely state that mentorship and connections are very important. However\, entrepreneurs must be open and committed to learning\, as well as willing to make the time to meet with their coach. \nSchedule an appointment in advance or drop in. \nWhat to expect:\n\nFor your small business\, startup\, or idea\nA private\, one-on-one meeting with a startup expert\nTroubleshoot your business goals and challenges\nHonest\, supportive feedback\nRecommendations on resources and tools
URL:https://20fathoms.org/event/drop-in-startup-coaching-traverse-city-2-2/2025-07-17/
CATEGORIES:Coaching
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://20fathoms.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Traverse-City.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20250717T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20250717T180000
DTSTAMP:20260416T223659
CREATED:20250501T135238Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250821T134004Z
UID:10000423-1752768000-1752775200@20fathoms.org
SUMMARY:Startup Coaching: Benzonia
DESCRIPTION:Happens the third Thursday of the month. No RSVP required. Just show up and bring your questions! \nConnect with startup experts who can help you grow.\nStartup coaches share their time\, wisdom\, and connections to help entrepreneurs build successful businesses and avoid common mistakes. They can provide guidance to entrepreneurs with new and growing businesses on a full range of topics including business planning and entity formation\, funding strategy\, sales\, operations\, human resources\, and much more. \nNew business owners routinely state that mentorship and connections are very important. However\, entrepreneurs must be open and committed to learning\, as well as willing to make the time to meet with their coach. \nWhat to expect:\n\nFor your small business\, startup\, or idea\nA private\, one-on-one meeting with a startup expert\nTroubleshoot your business goals and challenges\nHonest\, supportive feedback\nRecommendations on resources and tools\n\nMeet your coach:\nGretchen Swanson leads talent initiatives at 20Fathoms to address the region’s need for qualified tech and startup professionals. Working with local employers and regional partners to identify critical skill areas\, she develops programming and resources for tech professionals of all experience levels\, helping job seekers successfully navigate their tech careers. \nGretchen is a long-time champion of innovative workforce development partnerships in the Grand Traverse Region. She has supported entrepreneurs and growing organizations as a Business Consultant with Michigan Small Business Development Center and through independent consulting where she specialized in technology integration and talent development.
URL:https://20fathoms.org/event/drop-in-startup-coaching-benzonia-2/2025-07-17/
LOCATION:Grow Benzie\, 5885 Frankfort Highway\, Benzonia\, MI\, 49616\, United States
CATEGORIES:Coaching
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://20fathoms.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Benzonia.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20250724T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20250724T120000
DTSTAMP:20260416T223659
CREATED:20250714T184614Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250723T193345Z
UID:10000445-1753347600-1753358400@20fathoms.org
SUMMARY:Books Club\, a 20Fathoms Breakfast Lab
DESCRIPTION:How to read\, understand\, and act on what your numbers are telling you\n\n\nNumbers don’t just add up—they tell a story. \nThis workshop will help startup founders and business owners decode their financial reports and use them to make better decisions. Framed around the idea that accounting is the language of business\, participants will learn how to read key financial documents\, interpret what’s driving their numbers\, forecast the future\, and take clear\, strategic actions. \nThrough an engaging mix of slides\, discussion\, and hands-on activities\, we’ll walk through the four key types of business analytics: descriptive (what’s happening)\, diagnostic (why it’s happening)\, predictive (what might happen)\, and prescriptive (what to do about it). \nYou’ll leave with a clearer understanding of how to “listen” to your business\, make data-informed decisions\, and forecast with confidence—no finance degree required. \nYou’ll learn: \n\nHow to read and understand basic financial reports like a P&L and balance sheet\nThe key metrics (KPIs) that help describe what’s happening in your business\nHow to identify why certain trends or changes are occurring using diagnostic tools\nSimple forecasting techniques to predict what might happen next\nHow to use data to make smarter\, action-oriented decisions for your business\nA practical\, jargon-free framework for thinking about numbers as a language\n\nAbout Breakfast Lab \nBreakfast Lab is a weekly event at 20Fathoms where you’ll get expert guidance to help meet your most pressing startup needs\, providing access to the right tools and the right people at the right time. \nThese events are held in person and there is no cost to attend. Coffee and a light breakfast are provided. Walk-ins are welcome. \nThere are two parts to each Breakfast Lab: \n\nStartup Workshop: 9 – 10:30 am\nStartup Coaching: 10:30 am – noon\n\nAttend both parts\, or just one. \nLearn more about Breakfast Lab. \nWho should attend: \nBreakfast Lab was designed specifically to support: \n\nIdea and early-stage startup founders with scalable innovations and technologies\nEntrepreneurs navigating strategic growth or a pivot in their business model\n\nPrerequisite: \nYou are encouraged to have your business model canvas outlined to benefit from the Breakfast Lab workshops. \nDon’t have a canvas yet? No sweat – join a Startup Bootcamp to get started or Download the instructions and a blank canvas to work through on your own time. \nMeet this week’s facilitator:\nJim Eatmon is the Founder of Four Pillars Analytics and your go-to guide on turning raw data into practical wins. Jim keeps things approachable and structured—walking business owners through the four pillars of analytics (What happened\, Why it happened\, What’s likely next\, and What you should do about it)\, so strategic planning\, goal setting\, and data-driven decisions aren’t just buzzwords\, but part of your playbook. By breaking down complex data into clear visuals\, digging into the “why” behind trends\, forecasting future moves\, and mapping out tailored action plans\, he will help you take the guesswork out of growth. \nBeyond advisory work\, Jim is passionate about supporting local businesses through education and hands-on guidance\, helping entrepreneurs build skills\, confidence\, and a data-smart mindset. \nBreakfast Lab Advisors:\nAfter Breakfast Lab\, join us for open Q&A time with local advisors who can help you take the next step in your business. Bring your questions\, roadblocks\, or ideas — they’re here to help. \nAdvisors this session include: \n\nAshley Sloat\, USPTO-registered patent practitioner who specializes in the development and management of patent portfolios for startup ventures and emerging growth companies.\nBeth Cavanaugh\, Insight and Analysis\, Research Strategies\, Change Management\, Marketing Communications\, Branding\, Process & System Implementation\, Training\, Business & Corporate Strategy and Execution\n\nSupporting Partners:\n\n\n\nAbout 20Fathoms:\n20Fathoms is the home of entrepreneurship and innovation in Northwest Michigan. Based in Traverse City and serving all of Northwest Lower Michigan\, 20Fathoms is a nonprofit startup incubator and resource center for entrepreneurs and growing businesses. The organization works with entrepreneurs of all stages and industries\, and specializes in working with technology-focused companies. Programs include startup education\, business coaching\, connections\, funding\, and general support.
URL:https://20fathoms.org/event/speaking-business-a-20fathoms-breakfast-lab/
LOCATION:20Fathoms\, 10850 East Traverse Highway\, #Ste 4400\, Traverse City\, MI\, 49684\, United States
CATEGORIES:Breakfast Lab,Coaching,Networking
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20250724T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20250724T160000
DTSTAMP:20260416T223659
CREATED:20250131T171910Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250821T132222Z
UID:10000439-1753362000-1753372800@20fathoms.org
SUMMARY:Startup Coaching: Traverse City
DESCRIPTION:Happens every Thursday. Appointments recommended. Drop in coaching is also available. Just show up and bring your questions! \nConnect with startup experts who can help you grow.\nStartup coaches share their time\, wisdom\, and connections to help entrepreneurs build successful businesses and avoid common mistakes. They can provide guidance to entrepreneurs with new and growing businesses on a full range of topics including business planning and entity formation\, funding strategy\, sales\, operations\, human resources\, and much more. \nNew business owners routinely state that mentorship and connections are very important. However\, entrepreneurs must be open and committed to learning\, as well as willing to make the time to meet with their coach. \nSchedule an appointment in advance or drop in. \nWhat to expect:\n\nFor your small business\, startup\, or idea\nA private\, one-on-one meeting with a startup expert\nTroubleshoot your business goals and challenges\nHonest\, supportive feedback\nRecommendations on resources and tools
URL:https://20fathoms.org/event/drop-in-startup-coaching-traverse-city-2-2/2025-07-24/
CATEGORIES:Coaching
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://20fathoms.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Traverse-City.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20250731T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20250731T120000
DTSTAMP:20260416T223659
CREATED:20250728T162033Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250728T162237Z
UID:10000461-1753952400-1753963200@20fathoms.org
SUMMARY:Connecting the Dots\, a 20Fathoms Breakfast Lab
DESCRIPTION:Reflect\, ask questions\, and turn insights into action\n\n\nOver the past few months\, we’ve explored key topics every founder needs to know—from customer discovery and MVPs to marketing\, fundraising\, and financials. Now it’s time to zoom out and see how it all fits together. \nJoin us for a special wrap-up session hosted by Tex Criqui\, where we’ll connect the dots between each Breakfast Lab and help you turn insights into action. \nWhether you attended one session or all of them\, this is a chance to reflect\, ask questions\, and leave with a clearer picture of how to move forward with your business. \nYou’ll learn: \n\nA practical roadmap for applying the tools you’ve learned — and knowing when to use them\n\n\nInsights on how to build and refine your business model\, revenue strategy\, and customer process\n\n\nGuidance on developing a meaningful financial forecast and identifying key metrics (KPIs)\n\n\nTips for assembling the right team and understanding the resources you’ll need\n\n\nA sense of how to prepare for next steps like fundraising or scaling\n\n\nReflection on your best next moves as of today\, even if they evolve tomorrow\n\nAbout Breakfast Lab\nBreakfast Lab is a weekly event at 20Fathoms where you’ll get expert guidance to help meet your most pressing startup needs\, providing access to the right tools and the right people at the right time. \nThese events are held in person and there is no cost to attend. Coffee and a light breakfast are provided. Walk-ins are welcome. \nThere are two parts to each Breakfast Lab: \n\nStartup Workshop: 9 – 10:30 am\n\n\nStartup Coaching: 10:30 am – noon\n\nAttend both parts\, or just one. \nLearn more about Breakfast Lab. \nWho should attend:\nBreakfast Lab was designed specifically to support: \n\nIdea and early-stage startup founders with scalable innovations and technologies\n\n\nEntrepreneurs navigating strategic growth or a pivot in their business model\n\nPrerequisite:\nYou are encouraged to have your business model canvas outlined to benefit from the Breakfast Lab workshops. \nDon’t have a canvas yet? No sweat – join a Startup Bootcamp to get started or Download the instructions and a blank canvas to work through on your own time. \nMeet this week’s facilitator:\nFollowing a 40 year career with General Motors\, Mr. Criqui was Regional Director for an engineering consulting firm for five years and worked another five years as Director of Operations for a management consulting firm prior to his position as President of Francis Criqui & Associates\, LLC.  He has extensive experience in technology and innovation\, strategic planning\, lifecycle management\, product data management\, process design and definition\, standards and regulatory compliance\, project management\, and organizational performance.  In addition\, he has championed the design\, development\, and deployment of the Michigan I-Corps@LTU program for startups\, delivered in 9-week sessions which integrated Design Thinking principles and Lean Launch Pad protocols.  Mr. Criqui has helped approximately 300 Michigan companies evaluate their commercialization potential\, assisted 6 companies in securing provisional patents\, and coached 100+ companies to advance to early-stage operations. \nMr. Criqui was on the board of several local and national non-profit companies and was elected to five terms as Mayor of his hometown. Mr. Criqui is an SAE Registered Consultant and a Mentor with TC SCORE.  He earned a BSME from Lawrence Technical University and an MBA from the University of Detroit. \nSupporting Partners:\n\n\n\nAbout 20Fathoms:\n20Fathoms is the home of entrepreneurship and innovation in Northwest Michigan. Based in Traverse City and serving all of Northwest Lower Michigan\, 20Fathoms is a nonprofit startup incubator and resource center for entrepreneurs and growing businesses. The organization works with entrepreneurs of all stages and industries\, and specializes in working with technology-focused companies. Programs include startup education\, business coaching\, connections\, funding\, and general support.
URL:https://20fathoms.org/event/connecting-the-dots-a-20fathoms-breakfast-lab-2/
LOCATION:20Fathoms\, 10850 East Traverse Highway\, #Ste 4400\, Traverse City\, MI\, 49684\, United States
CATEGORIES:Breakfast Lab,Coaching
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20250731T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20250731T160000
DTSTAMP:20260416T223659
CREATED:20250131T171910Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250821T132222Z
UID:10000440-1753966800-1753977600@20fathoms.org
SUMMARY:Startup Coaching: Traverse City
DESCRIPTION:Happens every Thursday. Appointments recommended. Drop in coaching is also available. Just show up and bring your questions! \nConnect with startup experts who can help you grow.\nStartup coaches share their time\, wisdom\, and connections to help entrepreneurs build successful businesses and avoid common mistakes. They can provide guidance to entrepreneurs with new and growing businesses on a full range of topics including business planning and entity formation\, funding strategy\, sales\, operations\, human resources\, and much more. \nNew business owners routinely state that mentorship and connections are very important. However\, entrepreneurs must be open and committed to learning\, as well as willing to make the time to meet with their coach. \nSchedule an appointment in advance or drop in. \nWhat to expect:\n\nFor your small business\, startup\, or idea\nA private\, one-on-one meeting with a startup expert\nTroubleshoot your business goals and challenges\nHonest\, supportive feedback\nRecommendations on resources and tools
URL:https://20fathoms.org/event/drop-in-startup-coaching-traverse-city-2-2/2025-07-31/
CATEGORIES:Coaching
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://20fathoms.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Traverse-City.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20250731T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20250731T190000
DTSTAMP:20260416T223659
CREATED:20250703T140203Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250714T185135Z
UID:10000443-1753981200-1753988400@20fathoms.org
SUMMARY:20Fathoms: Unplugged
DESCRIPTION:A casual networking event and fireside chat with local entrepreneurs\n\n\nBuild deeper connections with your local startup community at 20Fathoms: Unplugged\, a casual networking event the last Thursday of every month! \nMingle with peers who care about the growth of our region’s entrepreneurship community\, dive into conversations with local founders\, and celebrate the exciting ideas shaping Northern Michigan’s future. \nPlus\, hear from local entrepreneurs at different stages of their journeys\, fireside-chat style! Each presenter will have a few minutes to share about their journey as an entrepreneur\, their company\, and their current business needs. \nLight appetizers and beverages will be available. Presentations will begin at approximately 5:45 pm. \nIf you’ve attended a 20Fathoms Open House in the past\, we hope you will join us for this reimagining of our Open House format. If you’re new to 20Fathoms\, come check us out! \n20Fathoms plans to take photos and videos during the event. By attending the event\, you agree to be photographed and filmed\, which may be used for marketing purposes. \n\n\nAbout 20Fathoms:\nBased in Traverse City\, 20Fathoms is a nonprofit organization and the hub for entrepreneurship and innovation in Northwest Michigan. The 20Fathoms team works with entrepreneurs of all stages and industries\, and also offers specialized services to meet the unique needs of technology-focused startups. Programs include startup education\, business coaching\, TCNewTech pitch competitions\, access to capital\, a vibrant coworking space\, and general resources and support. For more information visit: https://20fathoms.org/ 
URL:https://20fathoms.org/event/20fathoms-unplugged-3/
LOCATION:20Fathoms\, 10850 East Traverse Highway\, #Ste 4400\, Traverse City\, MI\, 49684\, United States
CATEGORIES:Networking
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END:VCALENDAR