Founders Live joins forces with Connect for Idea Week 2026!
(See the Full Schedule of events for Idea Week 2026)
San Diego founders, builders, operators, and investors - Join us for an incredible evening…
Founders Live is an unforgettable networking experience and pitch competition sweeping the globe.
5 founders
99-second pitches
4 minutes of audience Q&A
YOUR VOTES decide the winner!
So bring your friends and coworkers and get to know your local entrepreneurs and vote for what you think will be the next big thing… built in SoCal.
These events sell out, so get your tickets early!
Know someone who should attend? Open The Door
Starring
Rob Gaudio (Gaudio Growth Partners) as the City Leader
Co-Hosts
Brittney Jenkins - Buzz Marketing
Jeff Severson - Primary Funding
Matt Streeter - West Pac Wealth Partners
Competing Founders and Startups
TBA
Interested in pitching at this or a future event? Apply here!
Know someone who should pitch? Open The Door
Agenda
6:00 pm - Networking and Happy Hour
7:00 pm - Announcements, Sponsors, and Pitch Competition
8:00 pm - Networking and Happy Hour
Know someone who should attend? Open The Door
Important Notes:
Parking: Plenty of open self-parking in parking lot (free)
Dress Code: Business casual attire
Sponsored Food & Beverage: Enjoy happy hour courtesy of our sponsors
Winners
The Founders Live winners package includes:
Front Row membership with unlimited access to Backstage Intelligence and the Backchannel community
Founders Live Booster Pack over $1,000,000 in cash savings on 100+ essential apps and services for startups
An appearance in the Founders Live Prime Time regional qualifiers with a chance to advance to our Prime Time global livestream tournament
About the Hosts
Gaudio Growth Partners
Gaudio Growth Partners is focused on helping businesses scale through strategic growth, leadership, and partnership development. Rob Gaudio brings years of experience building relationships, driving business growth, and creating meaningful connections within the entrepreneurial community.
The Buzz Marketing Co.
The Buzz Marketing Co. is a San Diego-based marketing and branding agency specializing in Search Everywhere Optimization™, social media strategy, content creation, events, and high-impact business growth systems for modern brands.
Our Partners
