Design and launch a real business in three days at UW Tacoma
Got an idea for a new business? Come to the South Sound Entrepreneurs Weekend Sept. 14-16 at UW Tacoma to develop a business plan, find partners and get it launched – all in 54 hours or less.
Modeled on the same principle as Tacoma’s popular 72-hour Film Competition, Entrepreneurs Weekend is perfect for anyone who’s ever wanted to start a small business. This hands-on conference will bring together aspiring entrepreneurs with speakers and experts who can help them turn their business dreams into reality.
“We’re hoping to get at least 2 or 3 companies to launch out of this weekend,” said organizer Andrew Fry, assistant director of industry partnerships at UW Tacoma’s Institute of Technology. “At the very least, anyone interested in starting a business can learn a lot.
Sponsored by the Washington State Economic Development Commission, the event is open to entrepreneurs who are interested in any kind of business, or anyone who wants to join a business team. Participants can come with a business idea in mind, develop an idea at the conference or join a team to launch a business. About half of the participants will come from technology backgrounds, Fry says.
Speakers at the conference will share their experience as entrepreneurs and discuss creating a business plan and other important aspects of launching a business. Friday night, participants will pitch their ideas and build teams; Saturday and Sunday, the teams will prototype and design products and develop a business plan. At the end of the weekend, a panel will judge each team’s effort and provide prizes for the top launched businesses. Prizes will include professional services to help the new businesses get started, Fry says.
Space is limited for this event and advance registration is required. Tickets are $60 if you register before Aug. 21, or $75 after Aug. 21. The registration fee covers the conference, food and drinks and a South Sound Entrepreneurs Weekend t-shirt. To register, visit www.sseweekend.com.