Startup Grind Spotlight

Startup Grind is the largest independent startup community, actively educating, inspiring, and connecting a million entrepreneurs in more than 200 cities. They nurture startup ecosystems in 98 countries through events, media, and partnerships with organizations like Google for Entrepreneurs. The cornerstone of their global community is a series of monthly events featuring successful local founders, innovators, educators, and investors who share lessons learned on the road to building great companies. Founded in Silicon Valley, Startup Grind has now hosted 5,000 fireside chats since its founding in 2010. To date, Startup Grind has helped millions of entrepreneurs find mentorship, connect to partners and hires, pursue funding, and reach new users.

Startup Grind Tallahassee places Tallahassee-Leon County in a global network of entrepreneurs, while featuring local business owners. Since January 2017, Startup Grind Tallahassee has hosted Eduardo Gonzales Loumiet, CEO of UberOps; Ryan LaPete, founder of Deep Brewing Co.; and Jasmine Anderson, Florida A&M alumnus and founder of Distressed by Jas. Startup Grind has recently partnered with the FSU Jim Moran School of Entrepreneurship which will help them continue connecting within the community to spark innovation in Tallahassee-Leon County.

JR Sims, Startup Grind Tallahassee Chapter Director, is an MBA candidate at Florida State University. More than a year ago, JR and his teammate Ian started an aerial photography business through the Get Started U Program at Domi Station, which sparked his interest in entrepreneurship and business. JR saw Startup Grind as a way to foster community connections, tell stories, and inspire people.