Startup Grind is the largest independent startup community, actively educating, inspiring, and connecting 1,000,000 entrepreneurs in over 300 cities. We nurture startup ecosystems in 98 countries through events, media, and partnerships with organizations like Google for Startups. Founded in Silicon Valley, Startup Grind has now hosted over 6,000 fireside chats since its founding.

The cornerstone of our global community are monthly events featuring successful local founders, innovators, educators and investors who share lessons learned on the road to building great companies. Founded in Silicon Valley, Startup Grind has helped millions of entrepreneurs build their businesses, connect with strategic partners, and secure funding.

Our October Guest Speaker is Donna Benton - Founder and Chairwoman of The ENTERTAINER

About Speaker

Donna Benton founded the ENTERTAINER in 2001 with the dual aim to make Dubai’s dining and leisure venues more affordable and enable world-class outlets to new customers. Donna built the business from the ground up, and its ‘buy one get one free’ concept has enjoyed phenomenal global success. The award-winning ENTERTAINER app launched in late 2013, and the company has now fully transitioned from a print publication to a data-driven tech company.

In 2018, Donna sold 85% of her stake to GHF Financial Group, a Bahrain-based Islamic investment bank and has since been involved in various other business ventures. She opened Chloe’s Beauty, Hair & Nails; a ladies-only salon with a focus on quality, affordability and convenience. Donna is an active partner in Dawson Sports, a UAE-based provider of sports equipment and apparel to schools, nurseries and clubs across the GCC. She is also involved in some of the UAE’s latest F&B concepts including Black Tap, Luigia Ristorante and Azure Beach at Rixos Premium Dubai hotel. Donna also has an extensive property portfolio.