Why Poker?
Learn more about poker inclusivity
We acknowledge that poker, as well as the tech and startup community, has historically been male-dominated. We believe that neither should be and we are committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all members and players.
We strongly encourage women, people of color, and individuals from all under-recognized groups to join us at our events.
Your presence enriches the experience for everyone, and we are dedicated to ensuring that our poker community is diverse, respectful, and inclusive.
Read more about why we believe poker is for everyone and why we play poker at Startup Haven:
Why Every Startup Founder Should Play Poker
Startup Poker 2.0 events are simple: Dinner followed by a friendly, low-stakes poker game.
Joining the game is always optional and beginners are encouraged to join in.
While Poker 2.0 is our flagship event, Startup Haven is so much more than that. You can read more about our programs for founders here.
But why poker?
More than 400 live poker events over nearly 19 years has proved to be the perfect relationship-building activity for founders and investors. It creates an opportunity to get to know your peers while exercising an essential mental muscle for founders: probabilistic decision-making.
Read about 8 Startup Lessons from Poker from a member.
There’s just something about poker…
Here’s how our founder, Bob, describes the unique excitement of our startup poker events on LinkedIn. Be sure to watch the clip at the end to hear the bursts of excitement firsthand!