Innovation took center stage on Day 3 of San Diego Startup Week 2026!
Hosted at UC San Diego’s Design and Innovation Building, Day 3 brought together founders, entrepreneurs, students, investors, and industry experts to explore what it takes to transform ambitious ideas into thriving businesses.
From inspiring keynote conversations to hands-on workshops, mentorship, and startup showcases, the day reflected the energy and creativity driving San Diego’s innovation ecosystem.
Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make Day 3 a celebration of entrepreneurship, collaboration, and growth!
Exploring Innovation and Startup Growth
Day 3 featured an exciting lineup of sessions designed to equip founders with the knowledge, connections, and resources they need to grow their businesses.
One of the day’s featured sessions was a keynote with Daniel Marashlian, Co-Founder and CTO of Drata, sharing insights with San Diego’s startup community.
Watch the Full Keynote by Daniel Marashlian, Co-Founder & CTO at Drata
Other featured sessions included:
- Building Your Startup Dream Team
- Grow Fast, Stay Secure: Cybersecurity for Startups
- Perfect YOUR Investor Pitch: Pitch Deconstruction
- Startup Stories: From Concept to Millions in Revenue
Attendees also had access to startup advising and opportunities to connect with mentors and experienced professionals.
Startup Stories with Grayson Lafrenz, Founder & CEO at Cadre AI
The Agentic Economy: How Humans Remain Relevant ft. Andy White, Co-Founder of Buyback Ventures
Showcasing San Diego’s Innovative Startups
The San Diego Startup Expo brought together startups, resource partners, and organizations contributing to the region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
The expo provided an opportunity to discover new products and technologies, meet the teams behind innovative businesses, and build connections across industries.
From early-stage founders to established organizations supporting startups, the expo highlighted the diversity and potential of San Diego’s entrepreneurial community. Check out the participating exhibitors here.
Thank You to Our Speakers, Mentors, and Exhibitors
A special thank you to Daniel Marashlian and all the speakers, panelists, and workshop leaders who shared their knowledge and experiences throughout Day 3.
We also extend our gratitude to UC San Diego for hosting the event at the Design and Innovation Building and supporting opportunities for entrepreneurship and innovation.
Thank you to our mentors, exhibitors, sponsors, community partners, and volunteers for supporting the founders and businesses that make up our startup ecosystem.
And to everyone who participated in the Pitch Pulse Grand Finale & Showcase, thank you for bringing your ideas, creativity, and determination to the stage.
Innovation Starts With Community
Day 3 reminded us that building the next generation of successful startups takes more than a great idea. It takes collaboration, access to resource in s, and a community willing to support one another.
Every introduction, conversation, and new connection helps strengthen San Diego’s startup ecosystem.
Thank you for being part of Day 3 of San Diego Startup Week 2026!
Next up: Day 4, where founders, investors, and community leaders come together for the SDSW x Women’s Venture Summit crossover event.
