StartUp WR Week is not just an event;
it's a catalyst for change.
April 20-24, 2026
This week-long celebration is designed to bring together budding entrepreneurs, seasoned mentors, and industry leaders. Our goal is to create a platform where ideas flourish, collaborations spark, and innovations take flight. Now, more than ever, the world needs fresh ideas and innovative solutions. Start Up WR Week is poised to be a beacon of inspiration and a launchpad for the next wave of groundbreaking ventures.
Monday
April 20, 2026
StartUp WR Kick Off
Time: 11:30 am
Location: N. Houston Sports Complex
900 N Houston Rd, Warner Robins, GA 31093
LaRhonda Patrick
Mayor,
City of Warner Robins
Join us as we kick off StartUp WR 2026 with a celebration of innovation and entrepreneurship! Mayor LaRhonda W. Patrick will welcome attendees, setting the stage for a week of learning, networking, and business growth. Connect with fellow entrepreneurs, grab exclusive StartUp WR swag, and get inspired by local business leaders. Don’t miss this high-energy launch!
Working with the Government
Time: 12:00pm
Location: N. Houston Sports Complex
900 N Houston Rd, Warner Robins, GA 31093
Brian Layfield
Chief, Installation
Contracting Division, RAFB
Lauren Polk
Purchasing Agent
City of Warner Robins
David Jimenez
General Manager, Robins/
Moody Exchange AAFES
Contracting Made Easy! Join Robins Air Force Base and City staff as they share insider tips and practical strategies to help you navigate contracting successfully. Don’t miss this chance to unlock opportunities and grow your business in the government.
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Lunch will be provided.
Build a Business Plan
Time: 5:30pm
Location: Central Georgia Technical College (Sonny Watson Building W)
80 Cohen Walker Drive, Warner Robins, GA 31093
Dr. James Blackburn
Chief Information Officer, Middle Georgia State University & Lecturer, School of Business and Health Administration
Blueprint for Entrepreneurial Success! Join Dr. James Blackburn from Middle Georgia State University for a step-by-step workshop offering practical strategies to turn your vision into a strong business plan. Don’t miss this chance to build a solid foundation for sustainable growth.
Tuesday
April 21, 2026
Coffee and Conversations: How to Acquire a Small Business
Time: 8:00am
Location: Woodlands Coffee Roasters & Cafe
Brandon Blocker
Owner,
Preferred Trophies
Jacob Kline
Owner,
My Father’s Place
Cameron Lothridge
Owner,
Orange Theory Fitness
Coffee & Strategies to Successful Business Acquisitions! Connect with business owners who have successfully acquired businesses, learn their strategies, and gain practical lessons from search to closing.
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Coffee will be provided.
Finding and Leasing Your Business Space
Time: 5:30pm
Location: Central Georgia Technical College (Sonny Watson Building W)
80 Cohen Walker Drive, Warner Robins, GA 31093
A’Kira Foster
Commercial Real Estate Advisor,
BP Real Estate
Find Your Perfect Business Location! Join a seasoned commercial real estate broker to explore options and gain the knowledge and resources to launch your business with confidence.
Wednesday
April 22, 2026
Technology Tools for Business (AI)
Time: 12:00 pm
Location: N. Houston Sports Complex
900 N Houston Rd, Warner Robins, GA 31093
Boost Your Business with Tech through this Lunch & Learn! Discover how AI, automation, and innovative software can streamline operations and drive growth. Connect with experts, gain practical insights, and enjoy networking— all over lunch!​
Michael Collins
Vice President,
Total Computer Solutions
Dr. Joseph C. Richardson
President and CEO,
Axis Leadership, LLC
​Following our AI conversation, we’ll also offer an exclusive tour of the Innolab so you can explore the newest resource for Small Businesses in Warner Robins.
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Lunch will be provided.
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Setting Up an LLC
Time: 5:30pm
Location: Central Georgia Technical College (Sonny Watson Building W)
80 Cohen Walker Drive, Warner Robins, GA 31093
Lisa Rackley
Area Director,
University of Georgia Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
Navigate Your Entrepreneurial Path! Join Lisa Rackley from UGA’s Small Business Development Center for a step-by-step workshop that simplifies starting your business. Don’t miss this chance to empower your journey and set your business on the right legal track.
Thursday
April 23, 2026
Minority Business Owner Panel
Time: 5:30pm
Location: Curtis Event Center
2050 Watson Blvd, Warner Robins, GA 31093
Empower Your Entrepreneurial Journey! Join a diverse community to share experiences, gain practical strategies, and connect with supportive peers. Don’t miss this chance to learn, grow, and be inspired in the world of entrepreneurship.
Kevin D. Miniano
Co-Owner, Kingdom Boxing Gym
Bridgette Cooper
Owner, The Cooper Law Firm, LLC
Lindo Joy de Sesto
Organizer, Georgia Cares Co., LLC
Rodney Davis
Legal Services, Rodney Earl Davis Attorney at Law
First Lady Laneen Morgan
Owner, Queen's Boutique
Friday
April 24, 2026
StartUp Summit
Time: 12:00pm
Location: Central Georgia Technical College (Sonny Watson Building W)
80 Cohen Walker Drive, Warner Robins, GA 31093
Chris McGuire
CPA, CIA,
Nichols Cauley
David A. Danzie, Jr.
Senior Vice President,
Synovus
Steven Britt
Co-Founder,
Heart City Marketing
Get the tools you need to secure capital for your business! Business Finance 101 will guide you on accessing funding, managing finances, and preparing for a smooth tax season. Then, elevate your business with Business Marketing, where you'll learn proven strategies to attract and retain customers while sharpening the skills that set your business apart!
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Lunch will not be provided. Attendees are welcome to bring their own.
Thank you to our sponsors!
