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Decatur Makers

Founders Forum

Big ideas. Real stories. Honest conversations.

Founders Forum brings entrepreneurs, founders, innovators, and business leaders into Decatur Makers for candid conversations about what it really takes to turn ideas into something real.

ABOUT THE FORUM

Founders Forum is a conversation series from Decatur Makers connecting makers, creators, and aspiring entrepreneurs with experienced founders and business leaders.

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Each Forum explores a different part of the entrepreneurial journey through real-world stories, practical insights, and plenty of audience conversation.

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Whether you're wondering if an idea has potential, already building something, or simply curious about entrepreneurship, Founders Forum is a place to learn from people who have been there, ask questions, and connect with others figuring it out too.

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Conversations That Inspire:
Founders Forum Highlights

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From Hobby to Business, and Maker to Brand

Our first two Founders Forums have brought together makers, entrepreneurs, and curious minds for engaging conversations about what it takes to build a business. In August, Scott Grimes, co-founder and former CEO of Cardlytics, challenged attendees to explore the difference between a hobby and a business, recognize opportunities, and think about what it takes to turn an idea into something more.

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In October, we welcomed Char Miller-King, The Wooden Maven, back to Decatur Makers to share her journey from woodworking to entrepreneurship, content creation, and partnerships with national brands. Both evenings sparked thoughtful questions, meaningful discussions, and plenty of inspiration for what's possible. And we're just getting started!

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WANT TO GO BEYOND THE CONVERSATION
Makerpreneur Lab
is coming
WHAT YOU'LL GAIN
In this session, you'll explore:

Founders Forum is where we start the conversation. Makerpreneur Lab is being developed as a place to do the work.

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We're developing a hands-on, multi-week program for makers, creators, inventors, and aspiring entrepreneurs who want to explore turning something they make or create into a viable business.

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We're still shaping the program, and we want our maker community to help us build it.

BRING YOUR IDEA
BUILD THE BUSINESS
MAKE REAL PROGRESS

Work with something you're actually creating or developing.

Explore customers, pricing, production, sales, marketing, operations, and growth.

Get feedback, accountability, expert guidance, and a community working alongside you.

Help us shape the Makerpreneur Lab
Tell us what you're working on, where you're getting stuck, and what kind of support would actually help.
WHAT'S NEXT?
Building a Business That Stands for Something
Featuring Abbey Griffith, Founder of Clarity Fitness
Monday, November 23, 2026 | 7:00 PM

What happens when you build a business around something you truly believe in? Our next Founders Forum will feature Abbey Griffith, founder of Clarity Fitness, a business challenging traditional fitness industry norms through its focus on body positivity, inclusivity, and a different approach to movement.

 

Join us as we explore what it takes to build a business around your values, stand out in a competitive industry, and navigate the challenges and unexpected turns of entrepreneurship. Whether you're running a business, exploring an idea, or simply curious about the stories behind entrepreneurship, we'd love to have you join the conversation!

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Free and open to the community. More details and registration information coming soon!

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