From one-on-one meetings with major contractors to candid conversations with successful business founders, SoCal Conference(X) is bringing new networking opportunities to Lake Forest on October 30.
For entrepreneurs and professionals in Orange County, building the right business connections can be just as important as having a great idea. But in a crowded networking scene, meeting people who can help move a business forward isn’t always easy.
SoCal Conference(X), taking place October 30 at the Lake Forest Community Center, aims to bridge that gap by bringing together small-business owners, suppliers, vendors, industry leaders, and representatives from key business support organizations.
With a focus on business matchmaking, mentorship, and practical resources, the event offers an opportunity for Millennials and Gen Z professionals to expand their networks and explore new avenues for business growth.
15 minutes that could open new doors
One of the event’s central features is PRIMETIME with OCTA, a business matchmaking session Presented by XBN. The program will connect small businesses with representatives from nine major prime contractors: HDR, WSP, Kleinfelder, Mark Thomas, Michael Baker International, AECOM, Psomas, GFT, and Kimley-Horn.
The format gives participating businesses 15 minutes to introduce their capabilities, discuss potential collaborations, and explore contracting or subcontracting opportunities.
For smaller companies seeking to enter infrastructure, transportation, engineering, and related industries, access to established contractors can be an important first step. Rather than relying solely on cold emails or waiting for introductions, attendees can engage directly with industry representatives in a structured setting.
Although the meetings do not guarantee contracts, they offer small businesses an opportunity to make connections that could lead to future conversations and partnerships.
Connecting entrepreneurs with small-business resources
Beyond corporate networking, the conference will feature representatives from four organizations that support small-business development.
The announced participants include Elmy Bermejo, Director of the California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA); Steven Snow, Regional Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA); Mike Daniel, Regional Director of the Small Business Development Center (SBDC); and Amin Khalifa, District Director of SCORE.
These organizations offer resources ranging from business consulting and mentorship to training, financing information, and guidance on government contracting.
For first-time founders and younger entrepreneurs, understanding where to find reliable support can be a significant challenge. Meeting representatives from these organizations could help attendees identify programs and services relevant to their business goals.
The opportunity is especially valuable for entrepreneurs who may not yet have access to established professional networks or experienced business mentors.
Lessons from successful family businesses
The event will also feature a Family Business Fireside Chat with Charles Antis of Antis Roofing & Waterproofing and Wing Lam of Wahoo’s Fish Taco, hosted by Ed Hart.
The discussion will explore the experiences and values behind successful family-led businesses, offering attendees a closer look at the realities of entrepreneurship beyond revenue and expansion.
From building company culture to navigating leadership challenges, established business owners can offer valuable perspectives to younger professionals considering launching or growing their own ventures.
Their experiences also highlight an important question for the next generation of entrepreneurs: How can a business grow while staying true to the values that shaped it?
A new kind of networking opportunity
Orange County’s business community spans industries from construction and professional services to hospitality, technology, and manufacturing. For emerging entrepreneurs, finding an entry point into these networks can make a meaningful difference.
By combining direct access to major contractors, small-business support resources, and insights from experienced founders, SoCal Conference(X) offers a practical alternative to traditional networking mixers.
For attendees, the real value will come from the conversations they start, the questions they ask, and the relationships they continue building after the event.
Event details
- Event: SoCal Conference(X)
- Date: October 30, 2026
- Location: Lake Forest Community Center, Lake Forest, California
- General admission: Free
- Register Here
