San Francisco Center for Economic Development

Events

Aug
10
to Aug 14

San Francisco International Week 2026

  • San Francisco, CA United States (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

San Francisco International Week 2026 celebrates what makes our city truly extraordinary, join us for our weeklong signature event!

This annual platform brings together business leaders, trade partners, consulates, and community organizations to forge meaningful connections, advance cross-border commerce, and honor the vibrant international communities that define San Francisco.

Program Highlights: August 10–14

  • Opening Night: International Networking (Mon, Aug 10) | Rincon Center-- Our signature "must-attend" event, open to the general public. Last year sold out at 300 guests — this year we're expanding capacity to meet growing demand. 

    REGISTER HERE

  • Midweek Programming (Tue–Fri):

    Focused engagement for business professionals and organizations active in international trade and global markets.

    • Yes SF - Pitch Competition: View Event

      August 11 (2-4pm) , hosted by Yes SF and San Francisco Center for Economic Development

    • Building Business Bridges between Italy and the Bay Area: View Event

      August 11 (5:30-7pm) at Yes SF, hosted by Italian Commerce Association

    • Why, Where, and How Small Businesses Are Building Global Teams in 2026: View Event

      August 12 (5:30-7:30pm) at The Rooftop at Hotel Via hosted by JustWorks

    • Building California–Japan Business Connections: View Event

      August 12 (5-7pm) at Morrison Foerster, hosted byJapanese Chamber of Commerce of Northern California (JCCNC)

    • From SF to the Philippines: AI, Trusted Technology, and the Next Innovation Bridge: View Event

      August 13 (4-6pm) at Yes SF, hosted by SF Filipino American Chamber of Commerce

    • Photo Documentary Exhibition: “Candombe: El Llamado del Tambor” (The Call of the Drum), by photographer Carlos Pazos: View Event

      August 13 (5pm) at Consulate General of Uruguay in San Francisco

    • Import/Export 2.0: AI and the Next Global Economy:

      Date: TBD, hosted by Hispanic Chambers of Commerce of SF and Consulate of Colombia SF

    • Closing Party -View Event Here

  • Cultural Celebrations: Partnering cultural centers take center stage with performances and events reflecting San Francisco's international identity throughout the entire month of August!

    Interested in participating? Opportunities to be part of the vendor showcase during Opening Night - Monday, Aug 10 and programming throughout the week, please contact info@sfcentered.org

San Francisco International Week 2026 proudly presented in partnership with:

Community Partner:

Ecosystem Partners:

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Aug
10

Opening Night: International Networking

A citywide celebration open to the general public, Opening Night is our signature evening event that launches SF International Week with energy and excitement.

This cornerstone gathering brings together San Francisco residents, business professionals and visitors from around the world for an evening of networking, food, drinks. Connect over curated bites and beverages reflecting the international flavors our city has to offer — it sets the tone for the week ahead!

For a taste of the world in one place — from the hawker stalls of Singapore to the countryside kitchens of France.

Register Now! 

Heavily marketed throughout San Francisco, this is an open invitation for everyone to experience what makes our city a truly global home.

For opportunities to be part of the vendor showcase during Opening Night, please contact info@centered.org.

San Francisco International Week 2026 proudly presented in partnership with:

Community Partner:

Event Sponsors:

Event Vendors:

FOOD

Azalina’s Restaurant | Braid Bakery | BocoBites | DaBao Singapore | Duan’s Kitchen | Hometown Creamery | Lucy’s Crepes | Petal & Platter Designs | Rifkas Catering | Smokin D’s BBQ | Yosoy Ceviche

BEVERAGE

Brewbird | Califcraft Brewing | Domaine Dardagny | Eigashima Shuzo / Kamitaka | Frey Ranch Farmers + Distillers | Full Proof SF | Hamatsuda Shuzo / Daiyame | High Roads Spirits | Hornitos | Isle of Harris Distillery | Junbi Matcha & Tea | Komasa Japanese Gin | Lev’s Original Kombucha | Mumm Napa | Oka Brand Sake | Omurasaki Beverage Co. | Santa Julia Winery | S.C. Lab | Seven Seals | Steep | Sweet Burden Import | Teinnovadora | Trinchero Family Estates | Uka Sake | Winebow Fine Wine & Spirits

ENTERTAINMENT

Batala SF | Lion Dance Me | Mr. Mahjong’s SF | Salon! Social Experiment

LIFESTYLE

Cali-Bird | ImageInk | Maggie Makes Pottery | Rutily’s Market | SF Zoo ft. Lihka | Valencia Grocery

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Aug
11

Yes SF - Pitch Competition

Yes SF Pitch Competition

Part of SF International Week 2026

Register Here

Watch innovative pitches from companies driving sustainable growth. As part of SF International Week, Yes SF welcomes a cleantech and AI for Civic Good, startups to the stage, each presenting bold solutions to some of today's most pressing environmental and economic challenges.

These founders are building the next generation of climate-forward businesses — and looking to expand into the Bay Area market.

Program Highlights:

  • Live pitches from CleanTech, Energy, AI companies

  • Insights from a panel of judges spanning venture capital and international business development

  • Networking with founders, investors, and the broader SF international business community

  • A firsthand look at how international and Bay Area startups are tackling San Francisco's sustainability challenges

Event Details:

  • Date: Tuesday, August 11, 2026

  • Time: 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

  • Venue: Yes SF HQ, 220 Montgomery Street, San Francisco, CA 94104

Hosted by: Yes SF and SF Center for Economic Development

Part of San Francisco International Week 2026

Launched in 2023, Yes SF began as a place-based innovation challenge calling for sustainable solutions to revitalize downtown San Francisco. Since the first challenge, Yes SF innovators network has expanded support for innovators, and a physical community and coworking space in the heart of downtown San Francisco opened. There you can find regular programming for startups, small business, and San Franciscans curious about the future of their city. At our core, Yes SF is about saying "yes" to a sustainable future, enabling visionary ideas, and supporting the people behind them

Yes SF & San Francisco Center for Economic Development are programs within the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce Foundation.

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Aug
11

Building Business Bridges between Italy and the Bay Area

Building Business Bridges between Italy and the Bay Area

Join the Italian Commerce Association (ICA), as part of San Francisco International Week 2026,

Register Here

Program Highlights:

  • No long keynotes, no rigid agenda … just good people, good conversation, and a relationship-building reception!

Event Details:

  • Date: Tuesday, August 11, 2026

  • Time: 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

  • Venue: Yes SF HQ, 220 Montgomery Street, San Francisco, CA 94104

Admission:

Who Should Attend?

This session is designed for business owners, founders, investors, professional service providers, import/export companies, real estate and infrastructure leaders, and technology partners — along with anyone interested in the future of U.S.-Philippines business and innovation.

Hosted by: Italian Commerce Association of San Francisco

The Italian Commerce Association’s services cater to a broad spectrum of needs, aiming to facilitate partnerships, showcase Italian excellence, and support the establishment of businesses in both the United States and Italy, thereby contributing to the growth and collaboration between the two nations across various sectors.

Part of San Francisco International Week 2026

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Aug
12

Building California –Japan Business Connections

Building California–Japan Business Connections - Sake, Wine & Cross Border Exchange

Join the Japanese Chamber of Commerce of Northern California (JCCNC) as part of San Francisco International Week 2026 for an evening of networking, sake and wine tastings, and business connection-building with the Japanese business community.

REGISTER HERE

Enjoy a curated sake tasting courtesy of Takara Sake USA, paired with wine selections from a Japanese-owned winery, while connecting with SF Chamber members, entrepreneurs, and Bay Area professionals interested in California-Japan business opportunities.

Whether you're looking to expand your network, explore partnerships, or learn more about the Japanese business ecosystem, this event offers a welcoming space to engage and build meaningful connections.

Program Highlights:

  • Networking Reception

  • Introduction to JCCNC and the Japanese Business Community

  • Introduction to JETRO San Francisco

  • Connect with Japanese Businesses and Professionals

  • Japanese Sake Tasting Courtesy of Takara Sake USA

  • Wine Tasting from a Japanese-Owned Winery:Addona wines

  • Light Japanese Appetizers from Akari, Delica, Sanraku Restaurants

Event Details:

  • Date: Wednesday, August 12, 2026

  • Time:5:00 PM – 7:00 PM

  • Venue: Morrison & Foerster (MoFo), 425 Market Street San Francisco, CA 94105

Admission:

  • SF Chamber Member: $15

  • JCCNC Member: $15

  • General Admission: $25

Who Should Attend?

  • SF Chamber Members

  • Business Professionals Interested in Japan

  • Entrepreneurs and Startup Founders

  • Companies Exploring the Japanese Market

  • Professionals Seeking Cross-Border Partnerships

Important: A separate entry QR code will be sent by Morrison & Foerster (MoFo) prior to the event. Presentation of this QR code is required for entry.

Hosted by: Japanese Chamber of Commerce of Northern California (JCCNC), Jetro, Consulate General of Japan

The Japanese Chamber of Commerce of Northern California (JCCNC) is a nonprofit business organization dedicated to promoting commerce, friendship, and mutual understanding between Japan and the United States.
Through educational programs, networking events, and community engagement, JCCNC serves as a bridge connecting businesses and professionals across cultures.

Part of San Francisco International Week 2026

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Aug
12

Sip N' Scale: Why, Where, and How Small Businesses Are Building Global Teams in 2026

Join us on August 12 at The Rooftop at Hotel Via for an exclusive event as part of San Francisco International Week. Hear from leaders on the Justworks international and operations teams as they discuss trends they're seeing across thousands of small businesses—from the motivations behind global expansion and emerging hiring hotspots to the practical decisions founders face when building and managing an international workforce.

 REGISTER HERE

Event Details:

  • Date: Wednesday, August 12, 2026

  • Time: 5:00 PM - 7:30 PM

  • Venue: The Rooftop at Hotel Via

  • Address: 138 King Street, San Francisco, CA 94107

Admission:

  • No fee to attend, please register by clicking on the Register button.

Who Should Attend?

  • Startup Founders & Small Business Owners

  • Companies expanding into new markets and evaluating global workforce strategies

  • Operations, People, HR, and Talent leaders

Hosted by: Justworks

Justworks is a technology company that levels the playing field for all small businesses. Through our software and as a partner, we help our customers take care of their teams, streamline their operations, and navigate the complex aspects of managing a workforce with confidence. 

Part of San Francisco International Week 2026

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Aug
13

From SF to the Philippines: AI, Trusted Technology, and the Next Innovation Bridge

From SF to the Philippines: AI, Trusted Technology, and the Next Innovation Bridge

​From SF to the Philippines: AI, Trusted Technology, and the Next Innovation Bridge

Join the SF Filipino American Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the SF Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the SF Center for Economic Development, and Turkish Airlines, as part of San Francisco International Week 2026 for a timely program exploring business, trade, and partnership opportunities between San Francisco and the Philippines.

REGISTER HERE

​This conversation will focus on the growing U.S.-Philippines corridor, including the Luzon Economic Corridor, Pax Silica, AI infrastructure, trusted supply chains, trade, capital, and cross-border collaboration.

​As global business moves deeper into AI, advanced technology, data infrastructure, and supply chain security, the Philippines is becoming part of a much larger conversation. For San Francisco businesses, Filipino American entrepreneurs, investors, founders, and civic partners, this is a chance to better understand where opportunity may be forming and how our community can help build the next bridge across the Pacific.

Program Highlights:

The program will bring together public-sector leaders, trade partners, and community leaders for a practical discussion on market entry, sourcing, partnerships, investment, and future business growth between the United States and the Philippines.

Event Details:

  • Date: Thursday, August 13, 2026

  • Time: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM

  • Venue: Yes SF HQ, 220 Montgomery Street, San Francisco, CA 94104

Admission:

  • No fee to attend, please register by clicking on the Register button.

Who Should Attend?

This session is designed for business owners, founders, investors, professional service providers, import/export companies, real estate and infrastructure leaders, and technology partners — along with anyone interested in the future of U.S.-Philippines business and innovation.

Hosted by: San Francisco Filipino American Chamber of Commerce

Established in 1973, SFFACC is a non-profit organization 501 (c)(6), which seeks to promote the economic development of the Filipino-American business and civic community in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Part of San Francisco International Week 2026

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Aug
13

Photo Documentary Exhibition: “Candombe: El Llamado del Tambor” (The Call of the Drum), by photographer Carlos Pazos

Photo-documentary exhibition: “Candombe: El Llamado del Tambor” (The Call of the Drum)
by the photographer Carlos Pazos

This exhibition portrays various scenes from Las Llamadas, highlighting both the instruments and the characters that make up the comparsas (carnival troupes). Through his documentary approach, the artist offers a unique perspective on the cultural impact of the Afro-Uruguayan community on Uruguayan popular culture.

 REGISTER HERE

Uruguayan candombe has been recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, and national legislation recognizes it as a fundamental contribution of the Afro-Uruguayan community to Uruguay's musical and cultural heritage, as well as to the promotion of racial equality.

Event Details:

  • Date: Thursday, August 13, 2026

  • Time: 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM

  • Venue: Consulate General of Uruguay in San Francisco

  • Address: 111 Pine St. Suite 1650. San Francisco, CA 94111

Admission:

  • No fee to attend, please register by clicking on the Register button.

Who Should Attend?

  • Art and culture enthusiasts

  • Anyone interested in Uruguayan heritage, UNESCO-recognized traditions, or the intersection of art and social equity

Hosted by: Consulate General of Uruguay in San Francisco

The Consulate General of Uruguay in SF, led by Consul General Beatriz Silva, represents Uruguay's diplomatic and consular interests across the western United States, supporting Uruguayan citizens and fostering ties between Uruguay and the Bay Area's business, technology, and cultural communities.

Part of San Francisco International Week 2026

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Aug
14

Closing Party - SF International Week 2026

By Invitation Only: As the week closes out, we are grateful to bring this occasion together in the company of our valued partners and collaborators.

Thank you for your continued partnership and engagement! We look forward to further dialogue and connection.

contact info@sfcentered.com for more info

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May
7

SelectUSA Taiwan Delegation Kick Off

The SelectUSA Taiwan Delegation Kick Off will be held on May 7, 2026. The U.S. Commercial Service and U.S. Department of Commerce will host this event, and Anita Huang, Chief of Staff at the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce will discuss about the overview of land use and legalities of establishing a company in San Francisco.

Learn more

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May
4
to May 8

SF Small Business Week

The 21st Annual San Francisco Small Business Week is a vibrant celebration that shines a spotlight on the heartbeat of our city - its small businesses. With a variety of exciting events, workshops, and networking opportunities, it's a chance for local entrepreneurs to connect, learn, and thrive.

Learn More

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Apr
16

San Francisco Climate Week Kick Off

The 2026 San Francisco Climate Week Kick-off with the honorable Daniel Lurie, will convene the city’s climate and innovation community to celebrate civic milestones and mark the opening of Climate Week in San Francisco. The program will highlight climate technologies and local sustainability initiatives, followed by a reception with light bites and drinks. (Invite-only)

Learn More

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Mar
15
to Mar 18

2026 CityTrip DC

Delegates will have the opportunity to network with business leaders and policymakers, strengthening the voice of San Francisco businesses on the national stage. We will have advocacy opportunities around critical issues than impact our city and the entire Bay Area region.

Lean more here

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Jan
21
to Jan 25

San Francisco Art Week: FOG DESIGN+ART

The FOG Design+Art provides vital funds to support SFMOMA’s education initiatives, which served over 140,000 students, teachers, youth, and families through diverse online and in-person resources, programs, and visits this year.

Learn More & RSVP

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Jan
20

San Francisco Art Week: ANTHONY MEIER

Join for the opening of the current project with AGO Projects and the exhibition of artist Barbara Stauffacher Solomon

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Jan
19

San Francisco Art Week: THE DONUM ESTATE

Join the Donum Estate for Discovery Day at The Donum Estate in celebration of SF Art Week. Enjoy complimentary access to The Donum Collection—one of the world’s largest publicly accessible private sculpture collections—and explore the Estate at your leisure.
Learn More & RSVP

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Jan
18

San Francisco Art Week: Marin Art Day

Explore Marin County's many art offerings with special hours, events, tours, and family programming at some of its leading galleries and museums!
Learn More

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Jan
14

Singapore Networking Reception @ JPM 2026

Enterprise Singapore would like to invite you to join us for an exclusive networking reception on 14 January 2026 at the San Francisco Marriott Marquis, during the week of the J.P. Morgan Annual Healthcare Conference.

Learn More & RSVP

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Jan
4
to Jan 8

SF Small Business Week

The 21st Annual San Francisco Small Business Week is a vibrant celebration that shines a spotlight on the heartbeat of our city - its small businesses. With a variety of exciting events, workshops, and networking opportunities, it's a chance for local entrepreneurs to connect, learn and thrive.

Learn more here.

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International Networking Night
Aug
21

International Networking Night

This evening aims to showcase our city's authentic multicultural identity. This is a vibrant celebration of San Francisco's global roots and an opportunity to foster cross-cultural business connections.

Event Highlights:

  • Engage with leadership from diverse cultural business associations representing communities from around the world.

  • Meet local entrepreneurs with global roots who embody our city's authentic cultural tapestry.

  • Connect with diplomatic officials from numerous consulates located in San Francisco to foster international business exchange.

  • Global Marketplace: A showcase featuring small businesses from diverse cultural backgrounds featuring authentic products and artistic displays highlighting our city's rich multicultural heritage.

  • Video Campaign: This event will mark the kickoff of a community engagement campaign that strives to celebrate our city's authenticity and diversity.

​This signature event celebrates our city's vibrancy, connects businesses across cultural lines, showcases authentic international entrepreneurship, and builds a more inclusive global business community right here at home in San Francisco.

Register here.

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Jun
9

Polish Business Delegation at San Francisco City Hall

The San Francisco Center for Economic Development (SFCED) recently engaged with a delegation of ten high-growth companies from Poland (the 6th largest economy in the EU) at City Hall, in partnership with the Office of Economic and Workforce Development (OEWD) and international business development firm Granite Landings. Representing sectors such as cleantech, medtech, logistics, fintech, and AI, the visiting companies are exploring opportunities to expand into the U.S. market through San Francisco. The meeting served as a platform to highlight the city’s robust innovation ecosystem and connect the delegation with key local stakeholders across government, industry, and infrastructure. The SFCED is committed to advancing international business development and positioning San Francisco as a gateway for global companies. By facilitating market entry and long-term growth partnerships, we continue to strengthen the city’s role as a hub for economic collaboration and cross-border innovation.

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Delegation Visit form Xiamen, China
Jun
4

Delegation Visit form Xiamen, China

The San Francisco Center for Economic Development will host a high-level delegation from Xiamen, China on June 4, 2025, led by Vice Mayor Hua Sheng Liao and representatives from the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade. This strategic visit aims to explore cooperation opportunities between Xiamen and San Francisco's business community in key sectors including e-commerce, agriculture technology, logistics, elder-care services, and environmental sustainability, while promoting Xiamen's annual China International Fair for Investment & Trade (CIFIT) and establishing long-term partnerships for trade and investment between our two cities.

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CityTrip Japan
May
10
to May 17

CityTrip Japan

THIS TRIP IS SOLD OUT

The San Francisco Chamber of Commerce and the Bay Area Council are excited to announce CityTrip Osaka! This immersive journey will offer our delegation the opportunity to explore Japan's vibrant culture, innovative technologies, and dynamic business environments of two of Japan’s most influential cities.

Starting in Tokyo, attendees will experience the city's mix of traditional and modern attractions, followed by a visit to the bustling city of Osaka to experience the World Expo. The highlight of the trip will be attending the Osaka Expo, where members will engage with business leaders, expo organizers discover cutting-edge innovations and explore the latest trends in various industries. This trip includes a rich blend of cultural discovery and professional development, fostering valuable connections between San Francisco and Japan.

Brief Itinerary:
May 10: Depart San Francisco (cross international date line)
May 11: Arrive in Tokyo
May 12-13: Meet with local business leaders and government officials in Tokyo
May 14: Travel to Osaka (half day stop in Kyoto)
May 15-16: Visit World Expo exhibition in Osaka
May 17: Depart for San Francisco

Click here for more information or email Jackson Nutt-Beers, at jnuttbeers@sfchamber.com.

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San Francisco Small Business Week Opening Ceremony
May
5

San Francisco Small Business Week Opening Ceremony

Kick-off San Francisco Small Business Week at the official Opening Ceremony! 

Join fellow entrepreneurs, community leaders, and small business advocates as we launch a week dedicated to celebrating the entrepreneurial spirit that drives our city's economy.

Under this year's powerful theme, "Rising Together," we'll explore how collaboration, not competition, creates the foundation for sustainable success.

Experience firsthand how businesses across industries can support one another to build a thriving ecosystem where everyone wins.

Event Highlights

  • Connect with dynamic small business exhibitors from every corner of San Francisco.

  • Indulge in delicious lite bites prepared by some of the city's most talented culinary talents.

  • Enjoy captivating performances by emerging Bay Area talent Veotis Latchison & Friends.

  • Hear from inspiring small business leaders

​Whether you're a business owner, an aspiring entrepreneur, or a community member who wants to support local businesses, we welcome you to join the celebration. This inclusive event brings together all who believe in the power of our local economy. 

Join us for an evening of inspiration, connection, and community as we set the stage for a week dedicated to the growth and success of San Francisco's small business community.

RSVP HERE

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Tech Bridge Guatemala
May
5

Tech Bridge Guatemala

On Monday May 5th, the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce was pleased to welcome the Consul of Guatemala in San Francisco, the Office of Economic and Workforce Development, and the University of San Francisco to successfully host Tech Bridge San Francisco- Guatemala, a dynamic forum that strengthened global cooperation in the technology sector by bringing together leaders from both regions.  

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Event Five
Jan
5
to Jan 7

Event Five

It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

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Event Four
Jan
4
to Jan 6

Event Four

It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

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Event Three
Jan
3
to Jan 5

Event Three

It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

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Event Two
Jan
2
to Jan 4

Event Two

It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

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Research: Academia in the Downtown
Oct
15

Research: Academia in the Downtown

  • San Francisco Center for Economic Development (SFCED) (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Research: Academia in the Downtown

Tue. 10/15 | 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM | 235 Montgomery St. #760 | FREE

We are collaborating with Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) to explore the feasibility of international university satellite campuses in the heart of Downtown San Francisco.

SOM will provide valuable research and insights, working alongside local real estate firms to reinvent office spaces into dynamic educational facilities.

Stay tuned for more updates! 

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Past Events