Startup Weekend is a global grassroots movement of active and empowered entrepreneurs who are learning the basics of founding startups and launching successful ventures.
All Startup Weekend events follow the same basic model: anyone is welcome to pitch their startup idea and receive feedback from their peers. Teams organically form around the top ideas (as determined by popular vote) and then it’s a 54 hour frenzy of business model creation, coding, designing, and market validation. The weekends culminate with presentations in front of local entrepreneurial leaders with another opportunity for critical feedback.
“Innovation happens because someone conceives of an idea that will make the world better, more efficient, or more interesting. We need more innovation, and it starts with entrepreneurs, designers and developers. Innovation starts here at Start Up Weekend,” says Chris Dessi, founder & CEO of Silverback Social: a social media marketing agencyrepresenting organizations like The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Dessi is hosting the Westchester Digital Summit, a
global social media & technology event being held at the Westchester County Center a few days before speaking at the
kickoff of Startup Weekend White Plains.
On Friday night, attendees will take the open mic to pitch their ideas to the group in 60 seconds or less. After groups
form, the rest of the weekend will be spent formulating the most popular ideas with the help of mentors and seasoned
startup entrepreneurs. By Sunday, teams will be ready to present their ideas in front of a panel of judges who will
award prizes, including a coworking membership at the Digital Arts Experience, a logo from the DAE’s creative team,
and a valuable social media consult with Silverback Social founder & CEO Chris Dessi, all of which are targeted to help
teams build their startups after the weekend. In addition, entrepreneurs-in-training will enjoy their fill of Starbucks
coffee, treats from Whole Foods, and beer courtesy of Yonkers Brewing Co.
Whether entrepreneurs found companies, find a cofounder, meet someone new, or learn a skill far outside their usual 9-to-5, everyone is guaranteed to leave the event better prepared to navigate the chaotic but fun world of startups. If you want to put yourself in the shoes of an entrepreneur, register now for the best weekend of your life!
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