PSL Weekly Digest 3/10 - 3/16
Hello PSL Community!??
Help us tell your story! Fill out the PSL Impact Survey
We're excited to introduce you to the Philly Startup Leaders Impact Report, a survey designed to help you share your entrepreneurial journey and how PSL has contributed to it. Your voice is vital in telling the story of our community.?
Please take a few minutes to complete our survey and share your insights. We're looking forward to reading them!?
You still have a chance to apply for Founder Institute Spring 2025 cohort!?
As proud partners of the Philadelphia Founder Institute, we are happy to inform you that the application deadline for the Spring Cohort has been extended to April 6th. Now, you have until then to join this brilliant network of entrepreneurs!?
The Founder Institute provides a global support community and a proven methodology to get your startup to traction and funding, and this program is designed to provide structure, feedback, and a supportive network for the next generation of entrepreneurs!
You don't have to do it alone! You will build your business in a structured, proven process alongside like-minded entrepreneurs. Apply using our referral link for priority access.?
What is the Road to LionCage? Spotlight on Women Founders!
The Road to LionCage series offers startups a chance to prepare for the major LionCage Pitch Competition in November 2025. This series consists of six smaller, intimate pitch events, each spotlighting a different theme. The upcoming session, on March 26th, focuses on Women Founders. The event will begin with a panel discussion featuring inspiring women entrepreneurs, innovators, and business owners. Following the panel, women-owned startups will pitch their ideas for cash prizes, and two winners will be selected. The event will conclude with a reception, providing a chance for attendees to connect and celebrate
Guests are welcome and encouraged to attend, cheer on their favorite entrepreneur, listen to an inspiring panel discussion on what it takes to be a female entrepreneur and founder, and make new connections with business and community leaders. Join this celebration of the incredible women driving innovation and business success!
Calling all green startups, climate tech enthusiasts, investors, and service providers!?
Are you building a climate or sustainability-focused startup? This is your chance to pitch in front of top investors, industry leaders, and key stakeholders in the Philly climate tech ecosystem. Compete for a prize pool bigger than last year, gain invaluable feedback, and connect with the people who can help take your startup to the next level.
Not a founder? You can still join to be part of the action! Whether you're an investor looking for the next big opportunity, a service provider eager to support growing startups, or simply a climate tech enthusiast, this event is your gateway to the region’s most exciting sustainability innovations.?
Date: April 22 (Earth Day)
Time: 6:00 – 8:30 PM
Location: BEX, One Commerce Square, 2005 Market St, Suite 160, Philadelphia
You can complete this form to apply to pitch or register here to attend the event.?
The fifth Philly Maker Faire is scheduled at Cherry Street & Race Street Piers
If you have a Do-It-Yourself (or Do-It-Together) attitude and want to share your work with a curious and engaged audience, then apply to the Philly Maker Faire!?
We encourage all makers, from startups and science clubs to inventors and artists to apply. They particularly love interactive exhibits and those that show the making process.
Expect to see combat robots, green technology, unique tools, unusual machines, 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC routers, analog and digital artwork, drones, VR/AR, electronics, textiles, fashion, biotech, performances, films, rockets, food, glass, toys, and more.??
Participation is FREE if you are not selling or promoting a product, service, or organization, so apply now to participate in the largest maker event in Philadelphia.
Founder Institute Webinars You Can’t Miss This Week:
TUESDAY 3/11 @ 12pm - Building Your Dream Team: Co-Founders, Hiring & Scaling
Building the perfect founder team is one of the biggest challenges in launching a startup. Should you have a co-founder? How do you balance equity vs. salary? What happens if a co-founder breakup occurs? At this live online event, part of the Quick Takes Series, FI mentors Brian Slough (MorganLewis) and Abdellah Aouf (GO Platform) will share two fresh perspectives on assembling and structuring a strong startup team. Don't miss this opportunity - Register now!
WEDNESDAY 3/12 @1pm - Co-Founder Networking: Sales and Marketing Partner Matchmaking
Building a great Co-Founder team is one of the most challenging yet vital steps in founding a startup. For entrepreneurs seeking a sales or marketing partner, the right match can elevate a business to new heights. At this live online event, you'll learn best practices for identifying, building, and formalizing successful Co-Founder relationships. Plus, connect with like-minded entrepreneurs in interactive networking sessions and virtual tables designed to help you find the perfect sales or marketing Co-Founder. Don't miss this opportunity to build your dream team and take your startup further. Register Here.?
THURSDAY 3/13 @5pm - Pitch Mastery: Shift your pitch from forgettable to memorable
How can you master the art of pitching your startup solution? Join us for "Pitch Mastery: Shift Your Pitch from Forgettable to Memorable" as part of our "Quick Takes" webinar series. Learn the three key things that will move your pitch from forgettable to memorable. At this live online event, Orly Zeewy, best-selling author and Philadelphia's mentor, will guide you through the essential elements to captivate your audience. But your pitch will fall flat if your investors can't see you. Alfred Poor, founder of The 75% Solution, will share insider tips to help you step into the spotlight and deliver an impactful pitch. Register now!
More community events this week:?
TUESDAY 3/11 @ 10am - WareSpace Philadelphia - Open House?
Hosted by: WareSpace
Participate in the WareSpace Philly Open House—tour our small. Tourhouse spaces, get $50 for showing up, and a $500 git card if you lease space right there and then! Register Here.?
FRIDAY 3/14 @8:30am - i2n Scaling For Growth - Patents, Trademarks, Intellectual Property
Hosted by: i2n
i2n's Scaling For Growth is an education series that helps prepare emerging companies, small businesses, and entrepreneurs by offering timely topics and tools from expert presenters. This series is intended for businesses, startups, entrepreneurs, and those thinking about launching their idea into action – and growth. Register Here.?
Join PSL’s Volunteer Program!
Our volunteer program seeks passionate individuals like you to join us in our mission to ignite change and lead the path toward a brighter future. As a volunteer, you'll have the chance to share your talents and interests, and we'll work together to create a personalized and fulfilling experience that's tailored just for you. We're always open to fresh ideas and suggestions that can help us enhance our program and make an even greater impact in our community.?
What are you waiting for? Don't hesitate to reach out to us at [email protected] or complete our volunteer form to get started. We can't wait to hear from you and welcome you into our community of passionate volunteers.
Go out there, connect, and be a part of the change!?
Team PSL?