While Glendale to many Armenians is known as a diaspora hub, the Southern California city is emerging as a hub for innovation in tech, with Armenians at the epicenter.

None is a better representation of this than 8th annual Glendale Tech Week, which kicks off Tuesday, September 12th in its namesake city.

Hero House and SmartGateVC are at the core of Glendale Tech Week unveiling the future of innovation. The Armenian-run tech incubator and seed venture capital fund is organizing a plurality of the events, hosting a lineup of events at their Glendale warehouse offices catered to aspiring entrepreneurs and established industry players.

Led by Armine Galstyan, Hero House's Managing Director and SmartGateVC's Principal, tells us, "If you want to get to know the newest innovation in the space, you want to meet people, you want to network with people in tech, this is the right place to be perfect."

In addition to the Happy Hour and networking sessions, events range from fireside chats about AI and machine learning, to panel discussions on startup fundraising by founders and venture capital investors, and presentations on getting a job in tech hosted by ReferMe founder Dominick Tavitian.

Here is a full list of events being hosted by Hero House and SmartGateVC at their offices:

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Sept 12th, 4:00 PM | Getting a Job in Today’s Tech Landscape 

Dominick Tavitian, Founder and CEO of refer me, will navigate historical shifts, current tech roles, and the industry’s future. 

Sept 12th, 5:00 PM | Building a Strong Legal Foundation for a Startup 

Hayk Mamajanyan, Partner at Rimon PC, will delve into incorporation strategies, fundraising essentials, and legal compliance to set your business on a path to triumph.

Sept 12th, 6:00 PM | Bootstrapping vs. Attracting Venture Capital 

Kenji Funahashi, Partner at WSGR, and founders Drew Kutcharian, Ara Agopian, and David Tonoyan will uncover the paths leading to startup success. 

Sept 13th, 4:00 PM | Financial Footing for Founders by Jeneen Minter 

Jeneen Minter, Fractional Consulting CFO at Escalon Services, will unlock fundamental financial concepts crucial for startup success. 

Sept 13th, 5:00 PM | The Art of Negotiation by Christine Soussa 

Christine Soussa, Global Client Director of Equinix, will uncover that collaboration, empathy, and understanding are at the heart of successful negotiations. 

Sept 13th, 6:00 PM | Finances for Startups: 409A Valuations & Investment Taxation 

Andy Torosyan and Daren Mesrobian, experts from HCVT, will Demystify 409A valuations and investment taxation with their professional insights. 

Sept 13th, 7:00 PM | VC Fireside Chat: Impact of AI and Machine Learning on the Tech Landscape 

Hamlet Azarian from Azarian Growth Agency will explore the transformative impact of AI and machine learning on the tech landscape. Engage with experts shaping technology’s future and gain insights into this evolving field. Moderated by Mr Azarian, Jenn Kranz : Jenn Kranz, an investor at Mucker Capital and Brian Mac Mahon Founder of Expert DOJO, Nardo Manaloto, Partner at Qubits Ventures will share their expertise.

Sept 13th, 8:00 PM | Happy Hour & Networking 

Unwind and connect with fellow tech enthusiasts, professionals, and entrepreneurs over refreshing drinks and delightful snacks. Foster meaningful connections and expand your network in a relaxed atmosphere.

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To register and discover more events during Glendale Tech Week, click here.

For events at Hero House: 326 Mira Loma Avenue, Glendale, CA 91204.