Event Recap: 2019 Saratoga Forum

Over 100 people joined Upstate Capital for 2 days in Saratoga Springs, NY. Every year, Upstate Capital hosts the Saratoga Forum to gather investors, deal-makers and company executives to meet, network and address topics of interest in venture capital, private equity and company leaders against the backdrop of the vibrant Saratoga summer track season. This year’s 12th annual Saratoga Forum took place August 7 – 8, 2019 at the historic Canfield Casino and Saratoga Racetrack.

Guests of the Saratoga Forum engaged in conversations with regional and national leaders from the venture and private equity communities. Guests heard in-depth insights on investing in New York, investment banking across the region and making big company exits from the CEOs who ran them. Keynote speaker, Ken Mehlman, discussed KKR’s Global Impact Initiative. Hugh Johnson provided Saratoga Forum guests with his annual Economic Outlook. CEOs enjoyed roundtable discussions with their peers and experienced advisors who have founded and sold numerous businesses. Roundtable leaders included Chet Opalka, Vikram Agrawal, Steven Wasser, Tony Mazzullo and Dick Frederick. Judith Erwin, Alisa Wood and Martin Aares also made the trip to Saratoga to share their perspectives on investing in New York.  The fully-featured line-up offered content for investors, entrepreneurs and transaction professionals.

Besides great content, the Saratoga Forum continues to be one of the best networking events throughout the year. New for 2019, select guests spent the afternoon at the racetrack in exclusive seating at The Stretch. This private-seating area right on the racetrack was an exciting way to enjoy the races. The Saratoga Forum wouldn’t have been possible without the great support of our members and sponsors. Big thanks to Grasshopper Bank, Saratoga County Prosperity Partnership, Whiteman Osterman and Hanna, Pine Street Capital Partners, Grant Thornton, BST & Co,, Bluehenge Capital Partners, Schwartz Heslin Group and Stonehenge Growth Equity Partners.