AI has made it possible for small teams to build and launch products faster than ever. But how do you know whether an idea is worth pursuing—and when it is time to leave a steady job? Join four young entrepreneurs for a candid conversation about making that decision, finding a real customer problem, building a first product, winning early customers, marketing on a limited budget, and raising money. They’ll share what surprised them, what went wrong, and how they handled the uncertainty. Bring your own startup questions and leave with practical steps you can take, whether you are ready to launch or still exploring an idea.
This event is part of the Northwestern University SPS Thought Leadership Series, a program of events featuring a wide range of compelling topics and thoughtfully led conversations throughout the 2026–27 academic year. It is also one of several signature events celebrating Northwestern's 175th anniversary, marking 175 years of learning, discovery, community, and the people and ideas that have shaped the University and will define its future. Explore more at 175.northwestern.edu.
Date: Thursday, November 5, 2026
Time: Noon–1 p.m.
Location: Online via Zoom
Moderator:
Faisal Akkawi, PhD
Associate Professor of Instruction and Executive Director, Northwestern MS in Information Systems program
Panelists:
Victoria Almanaseer
Founder & CEO, SkinSync AI
Reet Kaur
Founder & CEO, Sekaurity
Austin Mao
Co-Founder & CEO, Modern Industrials
Rishi Penmetcha
CTO & Co-Founder, Petra Labs
Kenan Saleh
Investment Partner, Andreessen Horowitz
If you have any questions regarding this event, please email Melanie Galvan at melanie.galvan@northwestern.edu.
Melanie Galvan
(312) 503-3946
Email