BizTech Connect: Modernize Your Manufacturing Operations with AI & Technology

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Operate Smarter. Compete Stronger.

Transform the way your business operates with practical AI strategies, expert guidance, and modern technologies that improve efficiency, strengthen competitiveness, and prepare your company for the future of manufacturing.

REGISTER FOR THE UPCOMING 2026 COHORTS

Built for Advanced Manufacturers

Manufacturing is evolving rapidly, creating new opportunities for companies that embrace digital technologies, AI, and operational innovation. BizTech Connect is designed specifically for manufacturers ready to modernize their operations, strengthen their role in the supply chain, and support Inland Southern California's growing innovation economy.

Whether you're a machine shop, fabricator, contract manufacturer, industrial supplier, OEM, or manufacturer serving industries like aerospace, defense, medtech, robotics, cleantech, transportation, or advanced materials, BizTech Connect provides practical strategies to help you improve efficiency, adopt emerging technologies, and compete in an increasingly advanced manufacturing landscape.

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"The guidance offered through the UCR BizTech program and its instructor Gioia Messinger provided a practical structure to help organize, instill discipline, and directional focus for our business."

- Ambar Martinez Palacios, CEO of Cali Auto Glass

Supporting the Future of Advanced Manufacturing

BizTech Connect connects manufacturers with the expertise, tools, and innovation ecosystem needed to improve operational efficiency, adopt emerging technologies, and remain competitive in an evolving industrial landscape.

A workshop table with blueprints and machinery metal pieces.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

Learn how to refine your business strategy, identify growth opportunities, streamline operations, strengthen customer relationships, improve financial planning, and build a practical roadmap for long-term success.

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WHAT YOU'LL GAIN

Receive expert guidance, one-on-one coaching, practical operational frameworks, and connections to Southern California's manufacturing and innovation ecosystem—equipping your business with the tools and strategies to modernize, compete, and grow.

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WHO SHOULD APPLY

BizTech Connect is for advanced manufacturers—including machine shops, fabricators, OEMs, contract manufacturers, industrial suppliers, and technology manufacturers—serving industries such as aerospace, defense, medtech, robotics, cleantech, transportation, and advanced materials.

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WHY AI

Discover practical applications of AI that help automate repetitive tasks, improve decision-making, optimize workflows, and increase operational efficiency—without disrupting your existing manufacturing processes.

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Areas of Focus

BizTech Connect also emphasizes additional areas that can benefit small business owners looking to strengthen and modernize their operations. These topics offer valuable insights into how technology and innovation can help businesses become more efficient, secure, and competitive. From robotics and automation to data analytics, cybersecurity, and 5G connectivity, these areas provide important knowledge that can equip business owners with the tools they need to adapt to a digital marketplace, enhance operational efficiency, and drive sustainable growth.

Robotics and Automation

Robotics and automation can significantly boost productivity by streamlining operations in logistics, manufacturing, agriculture, and more. Integrating these technologies helps businesses reduce labor costs, increase efficiency, and improve output quality. This is especially crucial for businesses in the manufacturing sector (NAICS Code 31-33), where automated systems can provide competitive advantages.

Cybersecurity

In today’s digital age, cybersecurity is vital to protect sensitive business data and customer privacy. Integrating strong cybersecurity practices prevents data breaches, online scams, and fraud. Small businesses must ensure that payment systems, websites, and operations are secure to maintain customer trust and comply with privacy regulations.

Data Analytics

By leveraging data analytics, businesses can make informed decisions through prediction, forecasting, and diagnostics. Understanding customer behavior, targeting, and acquisition becomes easier when businesses use data to identify trends, optimize marketing strategies, and improve service delivery. Implementing data analytics can lead to higher profitability and a better understanding of market opportunities.

5G and Internet Connectivity

With the rise of mobile technology and sensor-based systems, businesses can operate more efficiently in highly connected environments. 5G allows faster data processing and real-time communication, which is particularly beneficial for mobile businesses and those relying on sensor technology. Enhanced connectivity helps businesses stay agile and responsive to market changes, fostering innovation and growth.

Class Information and Dates

2026 BizTech Connect Cohort Dates

Fall 2026: Coachella Valley

Fall 2026: Coachella Valley Class Schedule

Date	Time	Format	Topic
9/6/26	10:30 - 12:30PM	In-person	Session 1: Intro
9/10/26	5:30 - 7:30PM	Virtual	Session 2: Foundation for Growth
9/17/26	5:30 - 7:30PM	Virtual	Session 3: Strategic Growth and Operational Efficiency
9/24/26	5:30 - 7:30PM	In-person	Session 4: Financial Planning, Execution, and Growth

1st & last classes will be at UC Riverside's Palm Desert Campus:

75080 Frank Sinatra Dr
Palm Desert, CA 92211
Building A, Room A-113

Fall 2026: Coachella Valley

Fall 2026: Coachella Valley Class Schedule

Date	Time	Format	Topic
9/6/26	10:30 - 12:30PM	In-person	Session 1: Intro
9/10/26	5:30 - 7:30PM	Virtual	Session 2: Foundation for Growth
9/17/26	5:30 - 7:30PM	Virtual	Session 3: Strategic Growth and Operational Efficiency
9/24/26	5:30 - 7:30PM	In-person	Session 4: Financial Planning, Execution, and Growth

1st & last classes will be at UC Riverside's Palm Desert Campus:

75080 Frank Sinatra Dr
Palm Desert, CA 92211
Building A, Room A-113

Fall 2026: Coachella Valley

Fall 2026: Coachella Valley Class Schedule

Date	Time	Format	Topic
9/6/26	10:30 - 12:30PM	In-person	Intro, I-Corps Overview
9/10/26	5:30 - 7:30PM	Virtual	Product-Market Fit
9/17/26	5:30 - 7:30PM	Virtual	Markets & Market Size
9/24/26	5:30 - 7:30PM	In-person	Competition

1st & last classes will be at UC Riverside's Palm Desert Campus:

75080 Frank Sinatra Dr
Palm Desert, CA 92211
Building A, Room A-113

2026 BizTech Connect Curriculum

Session 1: Introducing Yourself and Your Business
- Elevator Pitch: Learn how to capture attention and communicate your business's unique value proposition.
- Vision & Mission: Clarify your business goals and objectives for long-term success.
- Capability Statement: Develop a clear statement that highlights your business's strengths.
Session 2: Foundation for Growth
- SWOT Analysis: Identify your business’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats.
- Value Proposition & Target Market: Define your value to customers and pinpoint your ideal market.
- Scaling Readiness: Assess your business's current capacity and set clear, measurable growth goals.
Session 3: Strategic Growth and Operational Efficiency
- Growth Strategies: Explore new markets, expand your product or service offerings, and leverage technology to fuel growth.
- Customer Acquisition & Retention: Develop strategies to attract and retain customers, utilizing feedback for continuous improvement.
- Operational Efficiency: Streamline processes, measure performance through KPIs, and build a scalable business model.
- Team Building: Learn how to attract, empower, and retain talent to support your business's growth.
Session 4: Financial Planning, Execution, and Growth
- Financial Projections & Metrics: Create budgets, manage cash flow, and understand key financial metrics for growth.
- Scaling Roadmap: Develop a step-by-step roadmap for implementing your growth plans, with a focus on managing risks and mitigating challenges.
- Funding Options: Explore different funding avenues—bootstrapping, investors, loans—to fuel your business's expansion.

REGISTER FOR THE UPCOMING 2026 COHORTS

Meet Your Instructor

Serial entrepreneur Gioia Messinger is a technology executive and board director with more than 30 years of experience helping companies leverage AI, connected technologies, and digital innovation to drive business growth and operational transformation. As Founder and Principal of LinkedObjects, Inc., she advises organizations on integrating AI and IoT to improve efficiency, modernize operations, and accelerate innovation.

Previously, Gioia founded and led Avaak, Inc.—now Arlo Technologies (NYSE: ARLO)—where she pioneered one of the world's first smart home security platforms. Throughout her career, she has developed products that have sold tens of millions of units, holds 15 patents, and has helped organizations bring breakthrough technologies from concept to commercialization.

Today, Gioia serves on the boards of Guild Holdings (NYSE: GHLD), One Stop Systems (NASDAQ: OSS), Hunter Industries, and Indyme Solutions. She is passionate about helping manufacturers and technology companies embrace innovation, strengthen competitiveness, and prepare for the future of industry.