Startup Grind Birmingham
I talked with Bay Shaffer, the Director of B’ham Startup Grind, to let you know what they’re all about.
Their Mission:
“Startup Grind is a global startup community designed to educate, inspire, and connect entrepreneurs. It is powered by Google for Entrepreneurs. We host monthly events in over 200 cities and 85 countries featuring successful local founders, innovators, educators and investors who share personal stories and lessons learned on the road to building great companies.”
Why type of Companies do you Cater to – is there a Criteria
“Startup Grind Birmingham strives to bring value to entrepreneurs, founders, generalists, and members through insights into the successes and failures of the leaders in our ecosystem. We are looking at incorporating other types of experiences that are inline with our values.”

Recent Successes
Two major events –
- An interview with Kathleen Hamrick – with the UAB Innovation Lab at the Innovation Depot – talking about her experience in Birmingham’s tech/innovation ecosystem.
- An interview with Mickey Millsap – with uShip and k12 Lean Labs – talking about is experience with teaching others how to start a company.

Key Events During the Year
- Flagship event – Startup Grind Global – bringing together 5,000 founders, investors, press, and startups in Silicon Valley for 2 days of non-stop content.
Where does your Organization get its Funding?
“Funding comes from ticket sales and our local sponsor, Royal Cup Coffee and Tea. We also have in-kind partnerships with Innovation Depot, UAB Innovation Lab, and UAB Collat School of Business that make each event possible.”
What makes Startup Grind B’ham Unique from others…?
“We strive to differentiate ourselves through community cultivation and global impact. When you connect to Startup Grind, you are connecting to a wealth of resources from 1,000,000+ entrepreneurs located across 200+ cities in 85 countries.”
Key Contact:
Bay Shaffer – Chapter Director –Â bshaffer@startupgrind.com