November 7–9 | Portland State University
Ready to turn your ideas into action? The PSU Center for Entrepreneurship invites you to our annual Kickstart Weekend: Community Edition — a two-day immersive workshop where students collaborate, create, and experience what it truly means to think like an entrepreneur.
Whether you already have a concept or just a spark of curiosity, Kickstart Weekend is your launchpad to innovation. This year’s theme, Community Edition, dives deep into how we can build stronger, more inclusive communities through creativity and collaboration.
What to Expect
Over three days, participants will:
- Learn the fundamentals of Human-Centered Design, the Lean Startup Canvas, and Storytelling
- Work side-by-side with PSU faculty, startup mentors, and fellow students
- Turn ideas into prototypes and pitch them to a panel of judges
Through hands-on, fast-paced sessions, you’ll gain real-world entrepreneurial experience and practical skills you can apply anywhere — from startups to social ventures and beyond.
The weekend culminates in a mini pitch competition, where each team will share their ideas with a panel of judges from Portland’s innovation community. You’ll receive direct feedback, refine your pitch, and connect with mentors who can help you take the next step.
To close out the weekend, we’re hosting a Kickstart Reception (Sunday, November 9 | 3–5 PM) — a luxury experience designed for connection and celebration.
Join us for an evening of curated appetizers, drinks, and conversation in a relaxed, elevated atmosphere. This is your chance to unwind, reflect, and network with fellow innovators, mentors, faculty, and members of Portland’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Think of it as the perfect finale — where great ideas meet great company.
📍 Event Details
Location: PSU Science and Education Center
2130 SW 5th Ave, Portland, OR 97201
Dates:
- Friday, November 7 – Orientation (1–4 PM)
- Saturday, November 8 – Workshop Day 1 (9 AM–5 PM, lunch provided)
- Sunday, November 9 – Workshop Day 2 (9 AM–3 PM, lunch provided)
- Sunday, November 9 – Kickstart Reception (3–5 PM)