Join Our Next Summit
September 7–8
Join Catalyst PDX
September 7–8, 2023
Catalyst PDX is an exclusive annual summit bringing together visionary leaders of owner-run businesses. Join us this year as we explore the meaning of Bold Type in business — as a way to expand horizons, change perceptions, incite action, and foster new connections.
Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from diverse speakers and panelists who are making bold moves. Held in Portland, it will be a day full of insightful talks, engaging breakout sessions, and interactive workshops.
Catalyst PDX is an exclusive annual event bringing together visionary leaders of owner-run businesses. Join us this year as we explore the meaning of Bold Type in business — as a way to expand horizons, change perceptions, incite action, and foster new connections.
Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from diverse speakers and panelists who are making bold moves. Held in Portland, it will be a day full of insightful talks, engaging breakout sessions, and interactive workshops.
“
The event felt very generous — not only with goodies and creature comforts, but also in that I never once detected any “selling” happening. Discussions all seemed curated, quality, intentional, thoughtful, and well executed. My biggest regret was not getting MORE from the networking opportunity. I wasn’t able to make the kick-off the night before, and looking back I wish I could have made that because I think I would have had a jump start on meeting others the next day.”
jim hassert
CEO at Grovemade
Designed for the owner-operated business community
Catalyst is a community of doers, thinkers, innovators, and visionaries — all united in a desire to do meaningful work. Now in its fourth year, the Catalyst Summit brings that community together in the heart of Portland to tell stories, spark curiosity, and share ideas.
In the spirit of learning from one another, attendance is intentionally limited to support real connection with fellow business owners and leaders.
In times of uncertainty, we seek comfort in the knowns: Tried-and-true strategies. Predictable inputs and outputs. But in business, that sense of security often comes at the expense of innovation.
Bold Type leaders know the truth: Avoiding risk is risky.
Instead, they cast a clear vision and take decisive action. They’re open to change and new ideas. They take risks. They challenge the status quo. They embrace the unknown and uncomfortable.
Bold Type creates emphasis and draws attention to what matters. In this two-day event in SE Portland, we’ll explore what it means to be bold in business, and what should be in bold type for us as we look toward the future.
Meet Our Speakers & Panelists
David Kahl
Fully
David grew Fully to $54mm, all bootstrapped, before selling to the largest office furniture company in the world — an experience that completely reshaped his perspective on legacy.
Karla Trotman
Electro Soft
A second-generation owner of the nation’s largest Black-owned electronics manufacturing and engineering firm, Karla has been making bold moves throughout her entrepreneurial career.
Anna Ready
Accrew
In an industry known for risk aversion and compliance, Anna is doubling down on humanity and creativity — inviting her team to be themselves, ask questions, and share mistakes.
Deven Paolo
Solid Form
From expanding employee growth paths, to transitioning his customer base, to growing his company with a whole new business model... Deven is no stranger to uncharted territory and taking risks.
Helen Anderson
HelloCare
Helen founded HelloCare as a way to give aging seniors independence in their own homes. From employee retention to technology, Helen is raising the bar in the caregiving industry.
Garrett Benisch
Bioforcetech
Bioforcetech transforms organic waste into renewable energy and carbon-negative material. Garrett's bold move has been launching a product for which the market has no category yet.
Day 1: Event Kickoff
5:00-6:00 | Arrival & Check-In
6:00-6:30 | Welcome Remarks
6:30-8:00 | Drinks & Appetizers
8:00-9:00 | Dessert
Day 2: Full-Day Event
“I really enjoyed the event and met some great folks. Having the Thursday evening get together was key to making Friday even more of a success. I also really enjoyed the breakout sessions — the conversations were really inspiring and thought provoking. Overall, I give it a 10/10. The location, food, people, all of it were fantastic. It definitely pushed me a bit out of my comfort zone.”
briana mathias
CPA/Founder
“I really enjoyed the event and met some great folks. Having the Thursday evening get together was key to making Friday even more of a success. I also really enjoyed the breakout sessions — the conversations were really inspiring and thought provoking. Overall, I give it a 10/10. The location, food, people, all of it were fantastic. It definitely pushed me a bit out of my comfort zone.”
briana mathias
CPA/Founder
Who should attend?
We want to create a welcoming environment where attendees can create meaningful connections and learn from each other. In that spirit, this event is not intended for sales conversations — and we’re keeping attendance focused to the owner-operated business community.
If based on that criteria we don’t see your attendance as a fit, we’ll reach out to you and refund your ticket price in full.
Curious whether it’s right for you? Here is a breakdown of previous attendees:
“I found the presentations to be inspiring, where each business owner/client shared stories of success in overcoming challenges in various settings. I think it was relatable to everyone in the room, regardless of position or industry. The folks I interacted with were just my type, and everything was beautifully presented.”
caitlyn quwenikov
Executive Director at OEDA
“I found the presentations to be inspiring, where each business owner/client shared stories of success in overcoming challenges in various settings. I think it was relatable to everyone in the room, regardless of position or industry. The folks I interacted with were just my type, and everything was beautifully presented.”
caitlyn quwenikov
Executive Director at OEDA
Join us for two unforgettable days of inspiration and connection.
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