Ahh, Monday…it’s MLK and inauguration day, the kids are out of school, and TikTok is finally back up. What else am I missing? Oh, that’s right - BLKBOOK Events!

Unfortunately, the build out is taking a little bit longer than anticipated but not long enough to renew our event platform license. Instead, we’re trying out a new platform that actually lets you choose who you want to match with. More details on that later.

For now, here’s whats cookin:

• Our next upcoming BLKBOOK event 👀

• 16 other net-fests you might be interested in 🤝

• Some interesting news headlines

• A few new tools I’ve been trying out

• A little introvert inspo

• How I can help you grow 🚀

BLKBOOK’s Upcoming Event! 🎉

If you’re eager to collaborate with other startups, share ideas and forge partnerships, you wont want to miss our Startup 2 Startup Virtual Speed Networking Event! In just one hour, attendees engage in 1-to-1 video chats during fast-paced 3-minute rounds, creating real opportunities for partnerships, mentorships, and fresh ideas.

Attendees will have access to the participant list before the event, and VIP ticket holders can select preferred matches to ensure they connect with the people who matter most to their goals.

Sponsors get guaranteed matches with attendees of their choice and a little something extra.♥️

Events This Week!👇

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Food for Thought 💡

I went to an amazing networking event this past week and had the pleasure of meeting Rick Turoczy. He’s been a pivotal figure in Portland, Oregon's startup ecosystem for over 25 years. As the founder and editor of the influential blog Silicon Florist, he has chronicled the region's entrepreneurial developments, providing visibility and support to emerging startups. In 2009, Rick co-founded the Portland Incubator Experiment (PIE), an accelerator offering mentorship and resources to early-stage companies, fostering innovation and collaboration within the community.

A few days later, I stumbled upon his Ted Talk which I found to be pretty inspiring. If you’re an introvert like me, then this is a video you’ll definitely want to watch!

Share your Networking Success Story! 🌟

Did someone in your network hook you up with your dream job, land you that big client, or make the intro that changed everything? We want the juicy details!

We’re on the hunt for inspiring, funny, or downright surprising stories about how networking opened doors and catapulted you to success. Think of it as your chance to brag—humbly, of course. 😉

What’s in it for you?
✔️ Showcase your story to a professional audience.
✔️ Build your personal brand and credibility.
✔️ Inspire others to invest in their networking efforts.
✔️ Free BLKBOOK event ticket.

How to Apply?
• Share a brief overview of your story.
• Include how your network played a key role.
• Submit your story here.

We’ll feature select stories in our newsletter and upcoming events. This is your chance to highlight the connections that made a difference and inspire others to start building their own.

Don’t be shy—your story could inspire someone else to make their next big move (and let’s be honest, we all love a good success story). 🚀