CO Startup Week: Beyond the Chatbot: How Conversational AI Is Changing the Way Startups Sell, Support, and Scale

Sep 16, 11:30 PM – Sep 17, 1:30 AM (UTC)

Denver

TARRA, 935 Albion Street, Denver, 80220

Join Agora and Startup Grind Denver to explore how conversational AI is transforming startups. Engage with founders and investors on AI opportunities and its human impact. Network at Tarra in Denver, with complimentary food, drinks, and parking. Part of Colorado Startup Week.

In-person event
Panel Discussion

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About this event

Conversational AI is quickly becoming one of the most important layers in the modern startup stack. From customer support and sales qualification to onboarding, retention, and personalized experiences, AI-powered conversations are changing how companies connect with customers at every stage.

For Colorado Startup Week, Agora and Startup Grind Denver are partnering for an evening of conversation with founders, investors, and startup leaders exploring what this shift means for growing companies.

Moderated by Walter Mannino of Agora, the panel will look at how conversational AI is being used today, where the biggest opportunities are emerging, and what founders should be thinking about as these tools become more capable and accessible. We’ll also hear the investor perspective on where the market is headed, what makes an AI-driven company stand out, and where real value is being created beyond the hype.

Just as importantly, we’ll talk about the human side of AI. As startups gain new ways to automate and scale customer interactions, the challenge becomes knowing where AI can improve the experience—and where trust, personality, and genuine human connection still matter most.

We’ll be hosted by the amazing Tarra, a coworking, office, and event space in Denver built around entrepreneurship and community.

Complimentary food and drinks will be provided, so come ready to learn, connect, ask questions, and meet other founders, investors, and members of Colorado's startup community.

Wednesday, September 16

5:30–7:30 PM

Tarra | 935 Albion Street, Denver, CO

FREE PARKING!

  • use the parking garage across the way and enjoy complimentary parking

  • please note the address to arrive at the correct Tarra location!

Questions about this event? Contact Alexandra Renee Poelstra at alexandra@startupgrind.com

Moderator

  • Walter Mannino

    Agora.io

    Key Account Manager

When

When

September 16 – 17, 2026
11:30 PM – 1:30 AM (UTC)

Organizers

  • Alexandra Renée Poelstra

    ALL MAVEN

    Chapter Director

  • Joseph Poelstra

Global sponsor

Carta logo

Carta

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