GET READY TO GROW: YOUR GUIDE TO FALL INNOVATION WITH GROW ADA
August 25, 2025 by Daniel Castaneda
BY: CATHLENA SPENCER
Have you ever wondered how a good idea becomes a great business? This fall, Grow Ada is rolling out a series of events designed to be your personal roadmap from that lightbulb moment to launching a successful venture right here in our community. We’re talking hands-on workshops, casual meetups, and a high-stakes pitch competition all to help you make your vision a reality. Think of it as your golden ticket to the local entrepreneurship scene.
September is all about getting the basics right and building your network.
September 4, 5:30-6:30: TECH MEETUP
First up, let’s get together! Our tech meetups are super relaxed, no pressure, just a chance to hang out with other innovators, bounce ideas around, and maybe find a new collaborator for your project. This is where the magic of community happens.
September 18, 5:30-6:30: BUSINESS MODEL ESSENTIALS WORKSHOP
Is that side hustle just a fun hobby, or can it be a real business? This workshop will give you the tools to find out. We’ll walk you through how to turn a passion project into a viable plan, covering everything from your target customers to how you’ll make money.
September 20, 9:00-2:00: FROM IDEA TO IMPACT: A STARTUP ESSENTIALS WORKSHOP
This is a can’t-miss event. We’ve teamed up with incredible partners like Startup OU, East Central University, and The Chickasaw Business Network to bring you a full day of powerful, practical knowledge. You’ll get hands-on experience in two critical areas:
Finding Your People: Ever wonder if anyone will actually buy what you’re selling? We’ll show you how to identify your ideal customers and understand their needs before you even start building.
Prototyping on a Budget: Learn how to create quick, low-cost prototypes. This skill is a total game-changer, letting you test your idea without spending a fortune. Whether you’re building an app or a physical product this is for everyone:
- Business owners launching new products and services.
- Entrepreneurs and startups looking to test and validate ideas.
- Small business teams seeking low-cost, practical tools to build new products.
- Community members curious about innovation and hands-on ways to bring ideas to life.
Our workshop will be held at the Work Ready building at 601 W 33rd ST, Ada, OK.
In October our focus shifts to preparing for the biggest night of the fall.
October 2, 5:30-6:30: TECH MEETUP
Catch up with new friends and see how everyone’s projects are progressing. It’s another chance to stay connected and find support and maybe win some trivia and grab some fabulous prizes from our community businesses.
October 9, 5:30-6:30: PITCH PERFECT WORKSHOP
Don’t think about competing without this! It’s your secret weapon for success. No, it’s not Anna Kendrick, Daniel says we don’t have the budget for that BUT we’ll teach you how to craft a winning pitch from storytelling to presentation skills that will capture the judges’ attention and make your idea shine.
October 23, 6:00-8:00: THE CONDUIT STARTUP SHOWCASE
This is it! Competition Day! It’s your chance to take the stage and pitch your business. Whether your idea is just a concept or already generating revenue, we want to hear from you. The competition is happening fromat The Venue on Main, 116 W Main.
Here are some important dates to remember:
- September 17: This is your final chance to submit your application for the competition.
- October 1: We’ll announce the finalists who will get to pitch on the big night.
- October 23: Competition Day! Come pitch your business or just cheer on your fellow innovators.
This is more than just a series of events. We’re creating a community where ideas are celebrated, and entrepreneurs are given the tools to succeed. Come be a part of it, and let’s grow Ada together!
Written by
Daniel Castaneda
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DANIEL CASTANEDA Daniel Castaneda came to Grow Ada, formerly known as the Ada Jobs Foundation, four years ago. He holds a master’s degree in Regional and City Planning from the