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From Idea to Impact: A Founder’s Playbook for Bold Leadership and Venture Growth

  • Suite Escape 400 East Illinois Rd LAKE FOREST United States (map)

Desiree Vargas Wrigley, Founding GP of Velocity Catalyst, Co-Founder of the Josephine Collective

Join us for an inspiring and interactive lunch with Desiree Vargas Wrigley, whose career spans building pioneering companies, raising capital from top venture and philanthropic leaders, and even stepping onto the Shark Tank stage. Through it all, she’s remained a champion for founders who dare to dream boldly and build with purpose.

Desiree is the Founding General Partner of Velocity Catalyst and Co-Founder of The Josephine Collective, a women-led angel group expanding access for underrepresented founders and elevating emerging fund managers. From launching one of the earliest crowdfunding platforms to being named a 2024 Notable Latino Leader, her work reflects innovation, grit, and a fierce commitment to inclusive entrepreneurship.

Over lunch, she’ll share the inside story of her journey, the lessons she’s learned championing others, and how thoughtful wealth-building can become a lever for personal and ecosystem-level change.

You’ll Learn:

  • A resilient founder’s mindset—how to navigate uncertainty and growth with clarity and grounded confidence.

  • A modern playbook for what’s next—fundraising insights, storytelling strategies, and what early-stage investors are really looking for in 2026.

  • How to build wealth with intention—and why aligning money with meaning shapes opportunity for yourself, your family, and your community.

Expect candid stories, honest insights, and that signature Suite Escape mix of practical wisdom and meaningful connection.

Join Us
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January 30

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