Sometimes as entrepreneurs we network for business, and play sport to keep ourselves grounded. This is a community where you do both: networking through the fastest-growing sport in North America, with founders, operators, mentors and the people building alongside them.
Claim your spot →Registration runs through iPOP's court booking system. Your confirmation email has a PIN code that gets you into iPOP on the night, so keep it handy.
Played before?
Either way, we want you there!! All skill levels are welcome at Pickleballpreneurs, including people who have never held a paddle, and the rotation is built for mixed levels. If you'd like the basics first, iPOP's Intro to Pickleball is a two-hour class for $20, paddles provided, and that $20 carries over to your first Learn2Play session.
The plan
Competition, then conversation. Sport is a natural icebreaker and hands you something easy to talk about, and trying to beat someone you might later build something with is a good kind of challenge.
On the court
Partner, play, compete, have fun. You and your partner take on different teams through the afternoon, with rotation breaks to catch your breath and talk to someone new.
In the room
Food & networking with everyone you just played against: entrepreneurs, founders, mentors and people just getting started. Once a quarter we run a feature night: Meet the Mentor (or Beat the Mentor), a Q&A, short talks, a panel.
The Why
Traditional business events can be fun and productive, but networking through sport has always been a part of business. In the past, sports like golf, tennis and boating have been places where The Who's Who would meet and greet. In today's climate, many people are looking for activity, access, and affordability.
We've created this community as a fun way to open doors to new relationships. A partnership on the court can turn into a partnership in the boardroom. Your opponent today could become your mentor tomorrow. Or you can just have a great time and make genuine friendships with like-minded peers.
Why pickleball?
A level playing field
For the next game you're somebody's partner, whether they've built a company you've heard of or just started their first one. The court doesn't care about titles.
It's easy to pick up
There's a reason it's the fastest-growing sport in North America. It's actually quite simple to pick up the basics, and a good game is fun at every level.
Networking beyond the net
New to networking?
This community is a chance for you to skip the gatekeeper, but don't skip the small talk. Real networking isn't about your pitch or your prospects. It's about adding value and building relationships.
From success to significance
If you've been looking for a fun way to give back, talk to Fenton or Praveen about our Founders & Mentors community.
I have questions!
- I don't own a paddle
- Most new players haven't bought gear yet. Borrow one from a friend, rent one from iPOP for the session, or pick up an inexpensive starter paddle. No need to spend properly until you know you want to.
- I'm not that good
- Excellent. The rotation is built for mixed skill levels.
- What does it cost?
- The next one is $30 plus tax, covering court time, food & prizes. Each event's page has its own details, on the schedule.
- Who's in the room
- Founders, operators, coaches, advisors and mentors - plus people still working on their first business. You won't know for sure until you're in the room.
- Where exactly is it?
- iPOP Burnaby, 9855 Austin Road, Unit 2, the former Safeway attached to Lougheed Town Centre, with plenty of free parking.
- Who's behind Pickleballpreneurs?
- Praveen Varshney and Fenton Eng, both BC business owners with a passion for challenge, contribution and community, with a founders' group forming around them.
Tips to level up
If you're a pickleball rookie or a networking newbie, here are some tips to help you in the room.
Who's involved
The Inclusive Place of Pickleball: courts, coaches and a room built for players of every level. ipop.fun
Entrepreneurship is the next great adventure sport. Be a successful entrepreneur, and an even better human.
Friday, October 9.
We keep it to 30 so everyone gets plenty of court time. 80% of the battle is being in the room.
Claim your spot →Registration runs through iPOP's court booking system. Your confirmation email has a PIN code that gets you into iPOP on the night, so keep it handy.