Speaker Arlan Hamilton Kicks Off a Week of Inclusivity and Entrepreneurship
By Mary Ullmann Japhet
San Antonio Startup Week (SASW) powered by Geekdom returns this October with a schedule promoting innovation, collaboration, and inclusivity in the heart of the Alamo City. Scheduled for Oct. 14-18, this year’s event, themed “Invest In…,” is designed to empower entrepreneurs, investors, and the broader community to invest in themselves, each other, and San Antonio’s startup ecosystem. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned investor, or simply passionate about the startup world, SASW offers something for everyone. Register at sasw.co to be part of this transformative week.
The week kicks off with a fireside chat featuring Arlan Hamilton, founder of Backstage Capital. Hamilton, known for her work in reducing funding disparities in tech by investing in underrepresented founders—including people of color, women, and LGBTQ individuals—will take the stage on Monday, Oct. 14, at 9 a.m. Her journey from homelessness to becoming a venture capital leader is an inspiring story of resilience and determination. Hamilton’s keynote is expected to set the tone for the week, challenging attendees to rethink how they invest in themselves and others.
The theme “Invest In…” emphasizes more than just financial investments. It’s a call to action for everyone involved—entrepreneurs, funders, industry experts, and community leaders—to dedicate time, energy, and resources to the San Antonio startup scene. With thousands of dollars in prize money awarded through various pitch competitions, SASW serves as both a platform for innovative ideas and a launchpad for turning those ideas into viable businesses.
SASW’s programming is designed to reflect the diversity and inclusivity of the city. The week will feature sessions and pitch competitions that highlight LatinX, women, and military veteran founders, among others. These sessions aim to foster a startup culture that mirrors the diverse makeup of San Antonio, ensuring that everyone has a voice in the entrepreneurial community.
H-E-B Supplier Diversity’s involvement as the title sponsor further highlights the commitment to inclusivity and support for local entrepreneurs. H-E-B’s mission to promote a diverse range of suppliers aligns perfectly with the goals of SASW, making the company an ideal partner for this annual celebration of entrepreneurship.
Beyond the keynotes and competitions, SASW offers numerous opportunities for networking, learning, and growth. From hands-on workshops to lively panel discussions, a vendor marketplace, and daily happy hours, the event is packed with ways to connect with like-minded individuals, learn from industry experts, and explore the latest trends in the startup world. Thanks to the support of the 80|20 Foundation and other key partners, all events are free and open to the public.
Whether you’re looking to pitch your next big idea, learn from successful entrepreneurs, or simply soak in the vibrant energy of San Antonio’s startup community, SASW is the place to be this October. Don’t miss out—register today at sasw.co, and get ready to “Invest In…” your future, your community, and the next big idea in San Antonio.
Visit sasw.co for more information.
