Battle of the Ages: Gen Z vs Boomer

Starting a Business — You’re Never Too Young and You’re Never Too Old

Join two BEAM entrepreneurs from different generations for a practical conversation about starting a business.

Jessy, a 22 year old bio engineering founder whose company generated $2M in revenue last year, and Kim, 71, a seasoned corporate executive turned entrepreneur launching a new sunscreen company, will share their experiences, lessons learned, and perspectives on building a business at very different stages of life.

Networking with wine and snacks is from 4:30–5:15, followed by a presentation and Q&A from 5:15–6:30.

Panel moderated by Mark Gross.

This event is free for students with code: STUDENTPASS

If you have ever thought about starting a business or are in the early stages, this workshop will provide real world insights, encouragement, and practical takeaways to help you move forward.

Workshop Takeaways:

• Start before you are ready and embrace hearing “No”
• Know when to pivot versus persevere. Execution matters more than the idea
• Keep learning, stay self-aware, and welcome feedback
• Use the resources and expertise around you. You do not have to do it alone

There is no perfect age to start a business. Success comes from execution, persistence, and learning as you go

Entrepreneurs at any stage face the same challenges: validating ideas, finding customers, and creating something people will pay for

Mentorship and community accelerate growth. Experienced support dramatically improves your chances of success

About the Presenters:

Jessy Gonzalez: Jessy is a researcher, and entrepreneur with a background in chemical engineering, particularly fungal biotechnologies. He has spent over five years working at the California NanoSystems Institute and NASA Ames Research Center. As a serial founder, he has built businesses in landscaping ($400K ARR) and biotech (~$1.5M in revenue to date). He is now building Dryvera, a new venture focused on helping residents protect their properties from hidden moisture-related fungi like mold.

Kim E Cooper: Kim, a retired corporate executive, is the co-founder of Solavida LLC, a new suncare products company. Over a 40-year career in marketing services, Cooper built and led sales and business development teams for major global organizations. He spearheaded new business initiatives for some of the world’s largest retail and CPG brands, including Nike, Dial, Henkel, Bacardi, Safeway, Walmart, Dollar General, Amazon.com, Lowe’s, Lidl U.S., and Rite Aid.

Four years ago, an idea sparked at his retirement party in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, which led Cooper and his wife to launch Solavida. As of February, the brand officially hit the market with its first products.