Technical.ly is a free news resource thanks to financial supporters like organizations appearing in this article, which are Technical.ly clients.Don’t hibernate through the winter, because the tech community is wide awake and bubbling with activity this month.February is packed with opportunities for entrepreneurs, innovators and tech professionals looking to network, learn and grow their careers and businesses. Whether you’re a startup founder seeking funding, an aspiring entrepreneur looking for mentorship, or a technologist eager to stay updated on AI and other industry trends, these gatherings offer valuable insights, connections and inspiration.Check out the links below and browse the Technical.ly company directory for more info on the host orgs, and for more local tech community events (or to promote your own), visit Technical.ly’s Events board.Wednesday, Feb. 5PCI Ventures Office Hours with Yi-Yen Chen (Virtual)  — “Meet virtually with a member of the PCI Ventures team to discuss your business questions on topics ranging from company formation and legal agreements to benefits and insurance.” Hosted by Penn Center for Innovation.Unlocking SBIR/STTR: Expert Tips for a Winning Application — “Find out how the government’s Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs can provide a source of RD funding between the initial development of your innovative idea and proof that it has potential in the marketplace. The two programs make over $4 billion in high-risk, non-dilutive capital available to innovative small companies annually! Join our expert in this interactive workshop to learn what it takes to participate in the programs. We’ll review eligibility requirements, participating agencies, the differences between SBIR and STTR, common misconceptions and more!” Hosted by University City Science Center.Data Handling: A Global Update — “With the increasing importance of data privacy, security, and compliance across jurisdictions, join us as we discuss key trends, regulations, and compliance challenges in data protection.” Hosted by Morgan Lewis.Current Trends in ESOP’s — “This webinar will provide education and background on Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOP’s) and comparison to other liquidity and transition options.” Hosted by Withum.Thursday, Feb. 6Big Idea CONNECTpreneur Baltimore Forum — “Come join us in Baltimore, MD for a CONNECTpreneur Forum Event like you’ve never seen before! This event is set to be a smaller and more exclusive gathering, tailor-made for premium networking and connecting entrepreneurs with seasoned investors

Ballard Spahr hired antitrust attorney Kristen Broz from Fox Rothschild.