Chicostart

09/07/2026

Sponsor Spotlight: Mechanics Bank

We’re proud to have Mechanics Bank supporting GrowTECH FEST 2026!

With roots dating back to 1905, Mechanics Bank has built a legacy around lasting relationships, local communities, and driving economic growth. Today, they continue that commitment by providing financial solutions for individuals, businesses, and commercial clients while investing in the communities they serve.

Their commitment to supporting local businesses and fostering economic prosperity makes them a valuable partner in bringing entrepreneurs, innovators, and community leaders together at GrowTECH FEST.

Celebrating + Elevating the Entrepreneurial Spirit in the North State💚

09/07/2026

Happy Labor Day from ChicoSTART!

Today, we’re celebrating the hard work, dedication, and entrepreneurial spirit that keeps our community growing. 💪✨

ChicoSTART will be closed today, Monday, September 7, in observance of Labor Day. We’ll be back tomorrow!

Enjoy the holiday! ❤️

09/04/2026

Your idea could open a door. But first, you have to pitch it. ⚡️

Pitching at GrowTECH FEST is about more than winning. It’s your chance to get seen, build confidence, get real feedback, make connections, and put your idea in front of people who can help you take it further.🚀

And yes… you could walk away with a cash prize, too. 🏆

Swipe through to see reasons why pitching at GrowTECH FEST could be your next big move.

📍 Chico, CA
📅 October 8, 2026
⏱️ 60-second pitch
🎓 Open to students in the California North State
🔞 Must be 18+

🚨Applications due Friday, September 18!

Ready to put your idea out there?

🔗Apply to pitch https://fyu7i8lt1a4.typeform.com/to/fj637g20

09/03/2026

What happens when a city commits to being entrepreneur-friendly?

Find out at GrowTECH FEST Day 2 with Kasey Reynolds, Mayor of Chico and a Founding Mayor of America the Entrepreneurial.

America the Entrepreneurial is a national movement working to make it easier for entrepreneurs to start and grow by encouraging cities and civic leaders to reduce barriers and create more entrepreneur-friendly communities.

Now, Chico is joining that movement 🎉

Join us as we officially announce Chico as an America the Entrepreneurial Founding City during our Founding City Proclamation Luncheon.

Then, hear from Mayor Reynolds and other community leaders during our Breaking Entrepreneurial Barriers Panel as we explore:

💡 How can cities better support entrepreneurs?
🏙️ What does an entrepreneur-friendly city actually look like?
🚀 What can we do to make it easier to start and grow a business?

This isn’t just a conversation about entrepreneurship, it’s about building a community designed to help entrepreneurs thrive!

📅 October 9 | GrowTECH FEST Day 2
📍 Chico, CA
🔗Secure your spot: https://reg.eventmobi.com/growtech-fest-2026

09/02/2026

Sponsor Spotlight: Tri Counties Bank

We’re proud to have Tri Counties Bank supporting GrowTECH FEST 2026!

As California’s Local Bank, Tri Counties Bank provides personal, small business, and commercial banking services with a focus on local decision-making and personalized service. Their commitment goes beyond banking through community engagement, philanthropy, and investments that help strengthen the communities they serve.

Their mission is simple: improving the financial success and well-being of their customers, communities, employees, and shareholders.

Their support helps us bring entrepreneurs, innovators, and community leaders together to build what’s next for the North State.

Celebrating + Elevating the Entrepreneurial Spirit in the North State 💚

08/31/2026

Your go-to update for all things entrepreneurship, tech, and small biz. 🧡⁠

Think your student startup idea has what it takes? Step onto the GrowTECH FEST stage for the ⚡NEXTGEN Lightning Round and pitch your idea LIVE in 60 seconds.

🏆Top 3 WINNERS take home cash prizes!

📍Chico, CA
📅 October 8, 2026
⏱️60-second pitch
🎓Open to students in the California North State
🔞Must be 18+
🚨Applications due Friday, September 18!

Apply to pitch at GrowTECH FEST 2026
🔗https://fyu7i8lt1a4.typeform.com/to/fj637g20

Making Money Moves is here! 🤑

Join Basic Needs, the Financial Wellness Clinic, Chico Start, and the Center for Excellence in Finance for Big Refund Energy: Budgeting & Smart Debt on August 31 from 4:00-5:30 PM in Selvester’s 100. 📍

Learn how to make your financial aid refund last, budget smarter, and better understanding loans, credit cards, and other debt. 💰

08/31/2026

Sponsor Spotlight: California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA)

We’re proud to have the California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA) supporting GrowTECH FEST 2026!

CalOSBA serves as the voice of California’s small businesses and entrepreneurs, helping them navigate the resources, programs, and regulations they need to start, manage, grow, and build resilient businesses. Through advocacy, technical assistance, and connections to capital, markets, and networks, CalOSBA works to make opportunity more accessible to businesses across the state.

Their support helps us connect the North State entrepreneurial community with the resources, connections, and opportunities needed to turn ideas into impact.

Celebrating + Elevating the Entrepreneurial Spirit in the North State 💚

08/28/2026

⚡️Student entrepreneurs, this one’s for YOU!

Think your startup idea has what it takes? Put it to the test in the NEXTGEN Lightning Round at GrowTECH FEST 2026! 🚀

You’ll have 60 seconds to pitch your business idea LIVE on the GrowTECH FEST stage in front of entrepreneurs, investors, and community leaders.

🏆 Cash prizes for the top 3 pitches
📍 Chico, CA
📅 October 8, 2026
⏰ Applications due September 18

Ready to take your shot?
Apply now! https://fyu7i8lt1a4.typeform.com/to/fj637g20

08/28/2026

08/27/2026

Making Money Moves is here! 🤑

Join Basic Needs, the Financial Wellness Clinic, Chico Start, and the Center for Excellence in Finance for Big Refund Energy: Budgeting & Smart Debt on August 31 from 4:00-5:30 PM in Selvester’s 100. 📍

Learn how to make your financial aid refund last, budget smarter, and better understanding loans, credit cards, and other debt. 💰