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Calling All Innovators, Disrupters Impact Amplifyers,

Storytellers +  Wannabees!

JOIN US for a transformative weekend of entrepreneurship + innovation, at Durham's StartUp Weekend for a transformative weekend of entrepreneurship + innovation, at
Durham's StartUp Weekend Greenovators.

 

In just 3 days, you will experience the highs, lows and pressure that make up life as a startup. As you learn how to create a real company, you'll meet the very best mentors, investors, cofounders, and sponsors who are ready to help YOU get started. Your community is here to help you!

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HOW IT WORKS

You don't need any experience in tech or the startup ecosystem. Just come with a collaborative spirit, be prepared to have fun and soak in all the knowledge about how to create your very own startup business.

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On the first evening, our event facilitators will break the ice as you break bread and get to know your fellow attendees. Anyone who would like to pitch a startup idea is given 60 seconds to give it a go. Afterward, participants who wish to get the full startup experience will vote on their favorite ideas and join their teams.

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Over the course of the weekend, participants will continue to meet up with their team as they attend workshops on building a business plan, customer validation, marketing, and mastering their pitch. Participants will also work closely with experienced mentors, who will provide guidance and support as they develop their ideas.

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At the end of the weekend, the teams will present a pitch deck to the audience and an expert panel of judges for their chance to win valuable prizes.


No Ideas? No Worries. Join a Team and work with them or just come watch the magic!

WHAT YOU WILL GET

Your ticket will grant you access to:

  • Hands-on activities aimed at providing participants with the tools and resources they need to launch their own Greenovators startup

  • A restorative breakout activity

  • A dope industry kick back event on Saturday night

  • Lots of good food and coffee!

  • Access to people making big footprints in the industry

 

We request a small donation (See tickets) so that you have some "skin" In the game, AND to ensure we can keep these events going for future Innovators and disrupters just like you.

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Join us and take the first step towards turning your innovative ideas into a reality!

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HOW TO PREPARE

You can find a list of tools that can help you prepare for the weekend HERE.

Doing some market research will give you a better understanding of the problem you are trying to solve. 
Practice your pitch. You'll have 60 seconds on Friday to persuade other participants to join your team. Make it clear, concise, and convincing!

 

The elements of a good 60 second pitch are to:

  • State who you are and what your background is

  • Mention what problem your product is solving

  • Explain the product and how it solves the problem

  • What skill sets you need on the team like a developer, marketer or designer

  • Provide a name for your startup

  • Get familiar with some of the tools that you can use during the weekend like the Lean Canvas.

SCHEDULE

This event takes place at American Underground, 201 West Main Street Durham, NC 27701

6:30 PM - 7:00 PM       |         Welcome Reception   
Eat food, meet other participants, share ideas, and practice your pitch. We’ll go over our agenda for the weekend and introduce our fabulous staff, speakers, coaches, and community leaders. 

7:00 PM - 8:00 PM       |         Ice Breaker / Pitches Begin
Cut loose during our ice-breaker which is roaring fun for the whole crowd. This activity will help you shake off nerves before pitching your idea. Then the rapid fire pitching round!

8:00 PM - 8:30 PM       |         Voting / Team Formation
Participants vote on the top pitches and begin forming startup teams.

8:30 PM - 10:30 PM      |         Teams Begin Work 
Start to formalize teams and take an inventory of skills. Be honest and direct about what resources and skills are needed for the weekend. You may stay and work until 10pm.

MEET YOUR TEAM

Check out our awesome facilitators, mentors, and judges

MENTORS

JUDGES

FACILITATORS

  • Is this event for me?
    Yes! Whether you are a serial entrepreneur or new to the startup scene, you’ll fit right in as long as you are motivated to build a product or startup and are open to new ideas. We believe that great ideas can come from anywhere.
  • Do I have to participate in all 3 days?
    Everyone who participates in the event is expected to participate in all three days. This is important not only to preserve your own learning experience, but also to minimize distractions or disruptions for the team you choose to join.
  • Can I pay at the door?
    You’ll be able to pay for your ticket at the door, on the day of the event.However, it’s preferable to buy your ticket in advance as organizers need to order catering and supplies to meet the needs of the weekend.
  • Do I need to bring a team?
    Everyone who attends the event is expected to come to the event without a team and then join and participate with a team at the event. This is important to preserve the Techstars Startup Weekend educational experience. The ideal team consists of members from diverse backgrounds and experiences
  • Do I have to pitch an idea?
    No, but we highly encourage you to. You can pitch an idea you've been thinking about for years, or something you think of at the last minute during the event. The point of the event is is to learn how to go from ideation to product.
  • What should I bring to the event?
    Laptop/Portable Computer Power cord for Laptop Notepad and pen Business cards (or a business card app) Your phone - feel free to take pictures or video of the event Optional: A second monitor, keyboard, etc…. Whatever helps you to be most productive.
  • What is the refund policy
    Techstars Startup Weekend can refund your ticket up to one week before the event kickoff. Please reach out to your local organizing team for more details
  • What is the latest I can show up on Friday?
    We recommend that you arrive on Friday night before the final pitches start so that you get a chance to pitch or listen to other pitches in order to choose the team you'd like to work on through the weekend.
  • Can I attend from Saturday if I can't make it on Friday?
    For Participants: Teams are formed on Friday night so you'll miss an important part of the weekend. Let us know if you're planning on arriving on Saturday morning and we will do the best we can to accommodate you, but do consider passing on your ticket to someone who can attend the entire weekend.
  • Can I bring my own food? I have food allergies.
    Yes! You can absolutely bring your own food - just let us know of you will and if you need a refrigerator to store your food in and we will show you where it is. Remember to label your food. :)
  • I use a wheelchair, is the venue accessible?
    Yes! Our venue is accessible - you'll find accessible parking, entry, restrooms, pathways and everything else you'll need. Please contact us if you need any help whatsoever. Looking forward to see you!
  • What prizes are available?
    Prizes to be announced!

FAQ

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Feel free to reach out to us with any questions.

CONTACT US

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