Events

Crunch & Munch: Open Enrollment as a Business Owner (BONUS WORKSHOP)

20 Oct 2026 11:00AM

Open Enrollment as a Business Owner

Working a full-time job while building a business or side hustle? Join Crystal Barney, CPA, for a practical discussion on how to approach open enrollment when you have both employee benefits and self-employment income. We’ll cover strategies for evaluating health insurance, HSAs and FSAs, retirement contributions, and other workplace benefits while keeping your business and personal financial goals in mind.

Bring your lunch, your benefits questions, and your business-owner hat.

Learn more about JBA: https://jbamd.com/crunch-and-munch/

Startup Social: Novella Center for Entrepreneurship Founder Showcase, Angel Investing Panel, Immersive Experience

12 Nov 2026 05:30PM

Join Spark Coworking and Novella Center for Entrepreneurship for an evening of startup discovery, community connection, and hands-on investing.

The event kicks off with open networking and introductions from Spark and Novella Center, followed by a dynamic panel discussion, "How to Invest in a Startup Without a Fund." Designed for aspiring investors, founders, and curious community members, this conversation will explore what investors look for in early-stage companies, how investment decisions are made, and how anyone can begin supporting startups, even if they've never considered themselves an investor before.

After the panel, meet the next generation of entrepreneurs during the Novella Center for Entrepreneurship Founder Showcase, where selected founders will pitch their ventures and share their vision for growth.

Then, put the panel's insights into action. Each attendee will receive Spark Bucks, a mock investment currency to allocate among the showcased startups. Cast your vote for the companies you believe have the strongest potential and see how your investment instincts compare with other attendees and our expert panelists.

Whether you're a founder seeking feedback, a professional interested in startup investing, or simply looking to connect with Baltimore's entrepreneurial ecosystem, this event offers a unique opportunity to learn, engage, and support emerging businesses.

Agenda

Open Networking
Welcome & Introductions: Spark x Novella Center
Panel Discussion: How to Invest in a Startup Without a Fund
Novella Center for Entrepreneurship Founder Showcase
Interactive Startup Investing with Spark Bucks
Networking Reception

Come discover great founders, connect with fellow innovators, and experience what it's like to think and act like an early-stage investor. 🚀

Every Startup's Holiday Party

02 Dec 2026 06:00PM

When you are a growing small business or solo entrepreneur, it can be tough to throw a company holiday party on a startup budget.

Spark Baltimore is here to make our holiday party...YOUR holiday party!

Join our 11th annual Every Startup's Holiday Party on Thursday, December 3rd and celebrate your 2026 success with other growing companies and individuals building the Baltimore startup & entrepreneurial ecosystem!