Startup Weekend Hits Toledo

Area entrepreneurs ranging from developers and programmers to creative thinkers and business-minded individuals alike are invited to participate in a weekend-long event that could identify Toledo as a new hub of innovation and technology. Mark your calendar for September 14-16 when the first edition of Startup Weekend Toledo is scheduled to take place at the University of Toledo.

A quiet movement in the local tech industry has been taking shape over the past year. According to Startup Weekend Toledo organizers, there are numerous technology-based groups which have formed, including Tech Toledo and Toledo Web, but no all encompassing events where great minds can hash out their ideas, form partnerships or learn how to take their business plans to the next level.

"For too long we have focused on manufacturing in this town and ignored all the tech-savvy, forward thinkers that were just waiting for the environment to become more friendly toward tech," said Lindsey Danforth, the main organizer behind Startup Weekend Toledo.

Citing business investors such as Rocket Ventures and UT Innovation Enterprises as playing a major role in supporting and funding local entrepreneurs, Danforth and fellow organizers have noticed a shift in the way their industry is being perceived. During the past 12 months, these companies have helped launch local web-based startups including Buyvite.com (a group payment option) and Givt.com (promotional gift cards shared through online and social media platforms).

Have a ground-breaking idea with startup potential? Participate in an intense three-day experience to find out if your startup idea is viable. Beginning with open mic pitches on Friday, attendees bring forth their best ideas and inspire others to join their team. Throughout Saturday and Sunday, teams will focus on customer development, validating their ideas, practicing LEAN Startup Methodologies, and building a minimal viable product. On Sunday evening, teams have the opportunity to demo their prototypes and receive valuable feedback from a panel of experts.

The idea that shows the most promise to the panel wins a 2-hour IP Brainstorming Session, as well as a 2 month part-time membership to Seed Coworking. Additional prizes will be announced throughout the weeks leading up to the event.

Startup Weekend Toledo runs:

Friday, September 14

5:30-11:30 p.m.

Saturday, September 15

9 a.m.- 11:30 p.m.

Sunday, September 16

9 a.m.- 9 p.m.

Early registration is now open for Developers, Designers and Non-Technical Guests at $35 per person. For more information and a complete schedule of events, visit http://toledo.startupweekend.org/.

Published: 08/10/2012

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