Kickstand Blog

In the next month there are a slew (the official word!) of events, workshops, seminars and speakers set to inspire, motivate and support the growth and success of our entrepreneurial community.

Some of the events to Save the Date and plan to attend:

TechStars in Boise
When: Wednesday, April 21@ 6pm
Where: The Watercooler
What:  David Cohen, Founder and Executive Director of TechStars - a mentorship-driven, seed-stage fund based in Boulder, Colorado - comes to Boise along with Andy Sack, Executive Director of the newly formed TechStars Seattle. Each year, TechStars Boulder funds and mentors ten new companies over an intense three months, resulting in some finely tuned, ready to roll start-ups.  David and Andy will share their enthusiasm for entrepreneurship, the benefits of the TechStars program, its successes, the application process and tell you why you should apply for TechStars Seattle (FALL 2010). This event is presented by Highway 12 and sponsored by TechBoise and the Idaho Technology Council.
Cost: FREE
More information on Highway 12's blog & TechBoise's blog

Ignite Boise
When: Thursday, April 22 (Doors open @ 6:30pm, starts @ 7)
Where: Egyptian Theater
What: Ignite Boise 4 brings together an inspiring and unexpected blend of thinkers from business, art, technology, government and academia. All with ideas. And all willing to share them. 5 minutes, 20 slides, what would you say? Find out.
Cost: FREE
Early admission tickets are gone, but show up & get in line for open admission which starts @ 6:30pm
More Information

Startup Lessons Learned
When:  Friday April 23 9:30am - 7pm
Where: 8th Street Marketplace @ BoDo
What: In San Francisco, the first Startup Lessons Learned all-day conference is being held - dedicated to helping with your new idea or making your current business kick more butt. But it will cost you a hefty $750. However, local tech heroes Balihoo and 8th Street Marketplace @ BoDo are bringing you a live simulcast of Startup Lessons Learned right here in Boise. Seize this great opportunity to be part of a truly world-wide start-up event, and hear some cutting edge thinking on how to get started with your business idea or make better traction with one you are already working on. If you are a start-up founder, an employee engaged in customer or product development role at a company of any stage, or someone at a large company looking to bring the lean startup methodology to your company, this is your event. Here's the stellar lineup.
Cost: FREE - but please register!
More information via  Kevin Donaldson's blog post (kdonaldson@balihoo.com)

TechLaunch
When:  May 19-20
Where: Boise Red Lion Downtowner
What: TechLaunch is an annual event that provides training and education to companies seeking financing.  Companies have the chance to practice and hone their pitch in front of potential investors. The event is organized by Idaho TechConnect, the Idaho National Lab, the Idaho Economic Development Association, as well as private and public organizations throughout the state. 
Apply to present
Cost: Early registration $40 until May 12
More information  

Startup Weekend
When: May 21-23
Where: The Watercooler
What: What can you accomplish in 54 hours? Startup Weekend brings together a highly motivated group of developers, business managers, startup enthusiasts, marketing gurus, graphic artists and more at a 54 hour event that builds projects, communities and companies.
Cost: $75
More Information

IdaVation
When: Thursday, May 26 7:30am - 7pm
Where: Boise Centre
What: Kickstand's annual conference to inspire innovation in Idaho. Keynote by corporate innovation specialist Mitch Ditkoff of Idea Champions. Additional details, schedules and panelists from Idaho's entrepreneurial community still being finalized. Keep an eye on Kickstand's blog for the latest information.
Cost: $69 for Kickstand members / $89 regular price