Think Big's Gigabit Challenge Winner Kauzu Launches Kauzu.Biz Application

Think Big's Gigabit Challenge winner, Kauzu, has announced the development of Kauzu.Biz, a new job search application for the Chicago area.  Find out more: 

Alderman Patrick J. O’Connor of Chicago’s 40th Ward will unveil the Kauzu.Biz business application on Tuesday, August 28th, at 10:00am in a press event at Mather High School, 5835 North Lincoln Avenue, Chicago, Illinois. Alderman O’Connor, Chair of the City Council Workforce Development and Audit Committee, is pleased to support Kauzu, a Chicago-based social venture providing free location-based job tools and free job postings for small businesses.

“In all of my years of working for the people of Chicago,” Alderman O’Connor stated, “I’ve worked with the private sector and kept an eye out for innovative ways to help the community thrive. When I learned about Kauzu and the ease with which their tools can help connect jobseekers and local businesses---I knew I had to get behind it. I encourage all businesses, job seekers, and Chicagoans in general to support Kauzu, and its innovations aimed at promoting job creation and retention.”

Kauzu.Biz is the employer’s portal to the Kauzu.Jobs jobseeker application, a free job search tool that pinpoints jobs by a user’s location. Kauzu.Biz allows small businesses to post unlimited jobs for free. Kauzu.Biz connects businesses with local jobseekers, reducing turnover by hiring employees with shorter commutes. Kauzu.Jobs and Kauzu Kono, a text‐based application that works on any cell phone in Chicago to locate open job listings near a job seeker’s location, were launched earlier in August.

According to Kauzu CEO Mitch Schneider, “We think employers are ready for an application with unlimited free listings, that helps them hire local, cut turnover and generate repeat business, and that creates the sustainable economic development that helps every family and business in the community. And we’ve built it.”

A City of Chicago Proclamation noting Kauzu’s achievements will be read at the event, and Kauzu will present Alderman O’Connor with a certificate of appreciation.

At the event, the Alderman and Kauzu will recognize six local supportive Chambers of Commerce whose members will learn more about Kauzu.Biz-- Edgewater, Lakeview East, Business Partners—the Chamber for Uptown, Lincoln Bend, Lincoln Square, and the South Chicago Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, three nonprofit partners will be recognized—the Albany Park Community Center, where Kono was launched on August 7; Centers for New Horizons, where Kauzu.Jobs was launched on August 15; and Goldie’s Place, a support center for people who are homeless, located in Chicago’s 40th Ward. Additional attendees at the event will include representatives from the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce Small Business Development Center and from Streetwise, a Chicago area publication assisting men and women facing homelessness.

Looking to learn more?  Visit www.kauzu.com for all of the latest info!

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Chicago Startup Kauzu Announces New Job Search App

Think Big's own Gigabit Challenge winner Kauzu is making exciting announcements about its newest initiatives, Kauzu Kono and Kauzu.Jobs.  

Mitch Schneider, CEO of Kauzu. 

Chicago social venture Kauzu launched its Kauzu.Jobs mobile application at the Charles Hayes Family Investment Center.  Kauzu has partnered with Centers for New Horizons to present the new product, a free job search application that pinpoints jobs by a user’s location, designed specifically for Chicago’s hardest-hit communities.

“Our communities have needed and continue to need more effective tools to find and secure jobs,” says Mitch Schneider, CEO, Founder and Chairman of Kauzu.  “Kauzu.Jobs is our latest tool that offers unique, integrated, and common sense functions for job seekers to be effective, and guess what?  It is free.”

Job seekers can access Kauzu.Jobs from any smart phone, be it iPhone, Android, or Windows tablet or computer--anything with a web browser. The program pinpoints the user’s location to find entry-level jobs such as retail and service opportunities in its immediate area. Finding jobs based on location is essential, because working nearby is critical to job seekers in many communities, as many can’t afford long commutes and often lack reliable transportation.

Kauzu’s marketing materials promise “Great Jobs, Right Around the Corner.”

Andre Kellum, Program Director for the Centers for New Horizons Workforce Development program, touts the immediate benefits Kauzu.Jobs gives job seekers.

“The Kauzu tool allows us to tap into a whole other experience for our ‘dual focus’ workforce development program model and will continue to solidify the skills sets needed for successful job placement services,” he says.  “We are proud to partner with Kauzu and be on the front lines of exposing technological enhancements to our customers."

At the product launch on August 15, 2012, two hundred at-risk youth and 19 employer partners—who recently completed the Mayor’s Summer Youth Employment Program—witnessed a first-hand demonstration of Kauzu.Jobs. 

President and CEO of Center for New Horizons, Dr. Sokoni Karanja, sees the potential of Kauzu.Jobs helping families achieve Kujitegumea (self reliance). 

“Finding a job is an essential step in achieving that goal,” says Dr. Karanja.  “As always, we search for every opportunity to achieve our purpose, we thus partner with Kauzu as they create a new tool they believe will increase the likelihood that residents of Bronzeville are better able to locate and achieve employment.”

 “We are so thrilled to work with community leaders to get the most innovative mobile job app into the hands of the people who need it most,” adds Schneider.

The Chicago metropolitan area unemployment rate remains nearly 10 percent, nearly two percent above the national average.  In some demographic groups in particular, the unemployment rate is as high as 35 percent. 

Kauzu recently released Kono, a text-based application where a user can access the same job listings on basic cell phones. Small businesses can post job openings and opportunities to Kauzu’s system for free, saving money and reducing turnover by hiring employees with shorter commutes.  Kauzu is continually adding features to Kauzu.Jobs, linking to the Kauzu.Biz launch on August 28.

To learn more about Kauzu.Jobs and Kauzu Kono, please visit www.kauzu.com. 

About Kauzu:

Kauzu (kawz-ooh) is the Esperanto word for “cause” and reflects the company’s focus on creating social change by transforming how jobseekers and employers connect.  Kauzu was the 2012 winner of Think Big Partners’ Gigabit Challenge “Born Global” Award in Kansas City, Missouri.  To learn more about Kauzu, please visit www.kauzu.com.

About Centers for New Horizons:

Centers for New Horizons’ mission is to develop the capacities of families to become self-reliant, to improve the quality of their lives and to participate in rebuilding their community.  The Center for New Horizons’ Workforce Development program is a “dual customer” program providing area employers with expertly matched job candidates and assists job seekers in qualifying for such jobs.  To learn more about Centers for New Horizons, please visit www.cnh.org.

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Gigabit Challenge Finalist Competes in Rice Business Plan Competition

The day that Think Big Partners found out that the team from Green Earth Aerogel Technologies would not be able to make The Gigabit Challenge Finale was a sad one.


After all, the startup had done everything they could to fly from Spain (where the team is from) to Kansas City in order to make the finals on January 18, 2012.  Unfortunately, the timing was wrong and travel arrangements were too challenging.  After weeks and weeks of trying, Green Earth Aerogels was unable to compete in the Gigabit Challenge Finale. 


But every cloud has a silver lining.  The Gigabit Challenge seemed to open the doors to other business plan competitions throughout the United States for Green Earth Aerogel Technologies. One of those opportunities is the Rice Business Plan Competition this week in Houston, Texas. 


Green Earth Aerogel Technologies went up against 400 other startup companies to compete in the initial round of the Rice Business Plan Competition and has made the top 42.  Each team in the competition will have 15 minutes to present a business plan (much like The Gigabit Challenge) with the chance to win more than $460,000 and the opportunity to ring the closing bell at NASDAQ OMX this fall. 


Competitors seem to come from all over the globe: Bangladesh, India, Germany, Denmark, Chicago, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Phoenix, Houston and of course, Spain (where Green Earth Aerogel Technologies is from).


According to Brad Burke, managing director of the Rice Alliance for Technology and Entrepreneurship at Rice University, the business plan competition is a huge opportunity for the top 42 teams.  


"The success rate is indicative of the quality of team the competition draws," he said in a recent press release.  “It is also representative of what we are finding to be an increased interest in innovation and entrepreneurship in the U.S. The current economy certainly affects this as well as the willingness by the millennial generation to take risks to start their own companies. These young entrepreneurs are vital to the U.S. maintaining its technology innovation leadership and its position in the world economy.”


Best of luck to Green Earth Aerogel Technologies and all companies participating in the Rice Business Plan competition! 


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004 Think Big Radio: Live From The Gigabit Challenge

Several short interviews with a few contestants from The Gigabit Challenge Finale.  The Gigabit Challenge was a global business plan competition inspired by Google Fiber's implementation in Kansas City.  The Grand Prize of $100,000 and the opportunity to work on the Google Fiber network was awarded to SEIN Analytics and Asset Management, while the Born Global Prize was given to Kauzu and the People's Choice Award to Paruzia Technologies.  The Finale event took place on January 18, 2012, at the Kansas City Public Library

004 Think Big Radio Gigabit Challenge

What Will SEIN Analytics Do with $100,000 Gigabit Challenge Prize?

WRITTEN BY ALLISON WAY, SENIOR COPYWRITER & CHIEF EDITOR 

Since SEIN Analytics & Asset Management walked away with the $100,000 Grand Prize at The Gigabit Challenge Finale earlier this year, the Brooklyn-based startup has begun developing plans for 2012 that include hiring, creating deals, marketing and formulating new business structures.

Think Big Partners’ Gigabit Challenge was a global business plan competition looking for new applications to disrupt technology on the Google Fiber Network.  Prizes at the awards ceremony on January 18, 2012, included the $100,000 Grand Prize, which was awarded to SEIN Analytics & Asset Management, the People’s Choice Award, and a $250,000 Born Global Prize.

“I launched our prototype and turned my attention to getting feedback from others,” said Samuel Belu-John, CEO and Founder of SEIN Analytics.  “I looked for places to present our idea to.  I signed up for iStart and saw The Gigabit Challenge. There was a natural fit to what Google Fiber could do and what we were doing.”

SEIN Analytics & Asset Management is a new venture founded by a structured finance veteran and a team of dedicated designers, strategists and programmers. SEIN develops a data-centric cloud application for analyzing and managing asset-backed securities (ABS). The software standardizes loan level data and displays it in an easy to use form that financial institutions and investors can use to track and analyze ABS investments.

In a recent Silicon Prairie News article, Chris Bernard, startup specialist at Microsoft and Gigabit Challenge judge, commented that “...no other company did as good a job of showing how the cloud and fiber could help businesses solve big data problems that were previously the providence of big data centers and deep pocketed customers.”

“When we were watching other presenters [during The Gigabit Challenge], we felt as if our numbers were too small,” said Suk-Hyon Paek, COO of SEIN Analytics.  “But the truth of the matter is, our numbers were realistic.  We were very down-to-earth about our idea.  Everything we presented was based on reality.”

With the $100,000 Grand Prize under their belts, the SEIN Analytics team plans on putting every penny from The Gigabit Challenge into launching their business.  In 2012, Belu-John hopes to hire more developers to assist him in flushing out SEIN.  The rest of the SEIN Analytics team plans to handle the future of the company by focusing on building strategic alliances with potential partners, increasing the deal database, refining the existing pricing models, developing a staffing plan, and creating marketing and sales initiatives. 

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Pitch to Silicon Valley Investors: Apply for Think Big Partners' First Accelerator Class

WRITTEN BY ALLISON WAY, SENIOR COPYWRITER & CHIEF EDITOR 

Stay tuned, Kansas City entrepreneurs.  Think Big Partners will soon be announcing the application process for its first ever accelerator class (read more about Think Big's latest announcement here).  

This spring, Think Big Partners will select candidates from The Gigabit Challenge and other startups to participate in its first accelerator class.  The class will undergo an intense and accelerated mentorship process with an emphasis on investor pitch perfection.  Once the class has sharpened its skills, the entrepreneurs will be invited to Think Big Partners' Flyover Fieldtrip, a trip to Silicon Valley to meet with Bay-area investors and funders.

Stay tuned for more information about Think Big Partners accelerator class and get involved.  Call 816-842-5244 if you have any questions or to learn more.

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Kauzu Kills It at the Gigabit Challenge and Leaves the Résumé for Dead

WRITTEN BY ALLISON WAY, SENIOR COPYWRITER & CHIEF EDITOR

Since Kauzu walked away with a $250,000 convertible promissory note courtesy of Gramercy Private Equity at The Gigabit Challenge Finale, the Chicago-based startup has been developing new plans for 2012 including partnership development, product development, fundraising and hiring.  

Think Big Partners’ Gigabit Challenge was a global business plan competition looking for new applications to disrupt technology on the Google Fiber Network.  Prizes included the People’s Choice Award, a $100,000 Grand Prize and the $250,000 Born Global Prize, which was given to Kauzu by Michael Gale of Gramercy Private Equity.

As one of the most energetic and creative pitches during The Gigabit Challenge Finale on January 18, 2012, Kauzu captivated the audience and the judges with its unique spin on changing the US employment industry.  Kauzu seeks to innovate the $170 billion industry by providing a dynamic, digital online environment with unique tools to create timely connections.

“This was a win for our team, and that’s all I really care about,” said Mitch Schneider, CEO, Founder and Chairman of Kauzu.  “This gives my team a pat on the back.  It also creates visibility and exposure.  Gramercy, Silicon Valley Bank, Microsoft—they all want to see us succeed.  The validation is amazing.  It only propels our chance to succeed.” 

Kauzu was one of the 17 Finalists to present at The Gigabit Challenge Finale in front of 17 esteemed judges from Kansas City and from across the nation. 

“This was another company that did a fantastic job with their pitch and connecting with the audience,” said Chris Bernard, Gigabit Challenge judge, in a recent article in Silicon Prairie News.  “I’m super eager to see what these guys do.  I think they have some unique ideas and a fantastic team.”

Mitch Schneider, CEO of Kauzu.

Post-Gigabit Challenge, Kauzu hopes to continue to develop more partnerships both in and outside of Chicago.  With these partnerships, Kauzu hopes to fund raise more effectively and more quickly to allow for cross-generating revenue.  The startup also hopes to start the hiring process in May.

“This experience has helped us form new partners and has allowed us to provide value back to new startups,” said Schneider.  “We are going to use other startup products so we can connect them with others too.  We want to open doors for others just like people have done for us.” 

In addition, Kauzu is planning another trip to Kansas City to connect with Think Big Partners’ accelerator and collaborative workspace and to strengthen more partnerships in Silicon Prairie.  Schneider also mentioned a two-location startup launch in both Chicago and Kansas City.

“Not every day is fun,” admitted Schneider.  “But at the end of the day, we all want to do this.  If I had a million dollars in my pocket, I’d still do this.  We do it because we believe in it and we think it’s fun.”


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What's up with Paruzia Post-Gigabit Challenge?

David Eck and Jason Arnold of Paruzia Technologies celebrate their Gigabit Challenge win.

WRITTEN BY ALLISON WAY, SENIOR COPYWRITER & CHIEF EDITOR

Paruzia Technologies walked away with The People’s Choice Award during The Gigabit Challenge Finale on January 18, 2012 and is now amplifying its marketing initiatives, bringing in new clients and analyzing their ability to use Google Fiber post-Finale.

Despite being one of the only startups that didn’t focus on software development at the event, Paruzia Technologies snagged the People’s Choice Award at The Gigabit Challenge Finale by winning 33% of the public vote. Now that Paruzia has been honored with this award, the small business from Grandview, Missouri is making new plans for a successful 2012.

“We had to put sales on hold during The Gigabit Challenge,” said David Eck, co-founder of Paruzia Technologies. “We are now shifting gears and bringing in new clients. The Gigabit Challenge has allowed us to further develop our platform.”

The Gigabit Challenge, powered by Think Big Partners, was a global business plan competition looking for new applications to disrupt technology on the Google Fiber Network. Prizes included a $100,000 Grand Prize, a $250,000 Born Global Prize and The People’s Choice Award, which was won by Paruzia Technologies via online poll.

“The People’s Choice Award was the best award we could have won,” said Eck. “It proves we know how to rally people together, that people like us and that people trust us. That’s what’s most important. But in addition, we needed what we won! Now, we have a place like bizperc to go to and a place to bounce ideas off others. We are looking forward to partnering and coworking.”

Paruzia was one of the 17 Finalists to present at The Gigabit Challenge Finale in front of 17 esteemed judges from Kansas City and from across the nation.

“...in addition to giving the most polished and cohesive pitch at the event...[Paruzia Technologies] presented the best solution that could take advantage of fiber in Kansas City for small businesses,” said Chris Bernard, Gigabit Challenge judge, in a recent article in Silicon Prairie News.

Post-Gigabit Challenge, Paruzia Technologies has also decided to use The People’s Choice Award as a marketing tactic. The company is celebrating The Gigabit Challenge win by offering the first 10 qualified businesses a complimentary analysis on how to speed up workflow and how to cut costs. To learn more about this opportunity, visit http://www.paruzia.com and fill out the request form.

ABOUT PARUZIA TECHNOLOGIES:
Pauriza Technologies is a Grandview, Missouri-based cloud integrator that uses best-in-class products and services to deliver high-value IT solutions. Paruzia offers technology services such as hosted desktops and servers, backup, disaster recovery, email, collaboration, ERP, accounting, CRM and more. As modern-day abolitionists, Paruzia Technologies has a vision to end modern-day slavery and the sexual exploitation of women and children by giving 5% of revenue or 20% of its profit (whichever is greater) to anti-trafficking efforts in tandem with Exodus Cry. To learn more about Paruzia Technologies, visit http://www.paruzia.com.

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Think Big Kicks Feet Up After Gigabit Challenge Finale...Or Not

SEIN Analytics & Asset Management wins Grand Prize at Gigabit Challenge Finale.

Photo:The Kansas City Star

WRITTEN BY ALLISON WAY, SENIOR COPYWRITER & CHIEF EDITOR
It didn't seem like it could get any bigger after Think Big Partners announced the People's Choice Award, the $100,000 Grand Prize and the $250,000 Born Global Award at The Gigabit Challenge Finale.  But the truth of the matter is, last night's celebration was only the beginning for both the winners and for Think Big.

Sonia Lin of Kauzu may have said it best: "Winning this is really just the beginning.  There is now even more to accomplish." 

After being bombarded by various media outlets, fans and family/friends, the three winners of The Gigabit Challenge joined Think Big Partners and many attendees at an after party near Kansas City's Power and Light District.  There, everyone from Google engineers to TGC judges enjoyed networking, cocktails and celebration.

But it wasn't all fun and games.  After all, we are in the world of entrepreneurship.  Therefore, Finalists and the team of Think Big Partners were still on-the-clock networking with the right people and interviewing with big-time media outlets such as TechCrunch, the Kansas City Star and the Kansas City Business Journal.  

Although The Gigabit Challenge is now over, Think Big Partners is busier than ever.  What can we do for the entrepreneurs who didn't win?  How will we start working with SEIN Analytics and Asset Management to make their startup a big success?  When will Google Fiber come so we can start the high-speed Fiber craze?  Many questions still remain, but one thing is for sure: The Gigabit Challenge built awareness and buzz around Kansas City entrepreneurship and the coming of Google Fiber.  And because of it, more entrepreneurs are able to accomplish more of their dreams...and that's why Think Big Partners is around in the first place.

A huge thank you to our volunteers, judges, advisory board members, vendors, live bloggers, attendees and contestants!  The event would not have been possible without you.

Stay tuned for pictures, video and more posts about post-Gigabit Challenge happenings.  Click here for information about The Gigabit Challenge winners.  

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Winners of The Gigabit Challenge Announced at Finale Event

WRITTEN BY ALLISON WAY, SENIOR COPYWRITER & CHIEF EDITOR
Sixteen finalists, 19 judges and 300 attendees made for an outstanding Gigabit Challenge Finale at the Kansas City Public Library.  But among the buzz of networking attendees, the energetic music and a variety of influential speakers, there were 16 companies that had a completely different experience.  They were lucky enough to compete in The Gigabit Challenge Finale and they experienced the most exciting moment of all; standing on stage for the announcement of three winners.


Congratulations to our three incredible Gigabit Challenge winners!

The People's Choice Award


Paruzia Technologies: Paruzia works with small businesses who are frustrated with their current IT support.  Paruzia employs advanced technology solutions and works with business leaders who value making money, saving money and ensuring a position in the marketplace. 

The "Born Global" Award


Kauzu: Kauzu is a company that seeks to innovate the US employment industry, a 170 billion dollar industry, mainly generated from staffing agencies, online job boards and other smaller related services.  Kauzu belives in empowering the industry by providing a dynamic, digital online environment with unique tools to create timely connections.  Think eHarmony.com + eBay. 

The Grand Prize


SEIN Analytics & Asset Management: SEIN develops a cash-flow analytics application built on Adobe Flash Builder 4 in combination with a cloud database server.  The goal is to address the major concerns of investors in the space.  It will be the first fully functioning cloud computing ABS software that is both mobile and tablet friendly. 

We would like to thank all of our partners, volunteers, vendors, attendees, judges, advisory board members and Finalists who joined us for The Gigabit Challenge Finale tonight.  The event would not have been a success without you all.  Best of luck in your future endeavors and make sure to continue to think big...with a gig!

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The Gigabit Challenge Explodes in Kansas City

WRITTEN BY ALLISON WAY, SENIOR COPYWRITER & CHIEF EDITOR

Although we are only half way through The Gigabit Challenge Finale at the Kansas City Public Library, a lot has happened.  So much has happened, in fact, that it calls for a quick post about recent announcement, Finalist presentations and Gigabit news!


Currently, #GBFinale is the number one trending topic on Twitter in Kansas City!  Thanks to all of our social media gurus out there for posting your thoughts about the big event.  Keep your 140 character posts coming...we love learning what you think!  




Currently, Paruzia Technologies is in first place for the People's Choice Award with 30.5% of votes.  TiBi.tv is in close second with 22.2% of votes.  Keep the votes coming!  Vote for your favorite Gigabit Challenge Finalist on our live webcast page: http://www.gigabitchallenge.com/live.


This morning, Senator Jerry Moran announced his position to help stop SOPA.  To read more about Senator Moran's speech, check out our most recent blog post here.  Sign the petition to stop SOPA here: http://www.moranforkansas.com/stop-sopa-and-pipa.


We have seen standout pitches from a number of great companies.  So far, we have seen presentations from Risk Analytics, Photaic, Virtual Real World Wallet Systems, Courthouse USA, GET-GIV-GOT System Technologies, Kauzu, Somametric and Hong.  Congratulations to those who have presented and good luck for those who are yet to take the stage!


Follow The Gigabit Challenge! @GBChallengeKC    #GBFinale

Why Did Google Choose Kansas City for Fiber Project?

WRITTEN BY CLAYTON P. BURNETT, GUEST BLOGGER & LIVE BLOGGER FOR THE GIGABIT CHALLENGE FINALE

The wait is nearly over….

Web pages loading, videos downloading, music buffering—it’s all coming to end. 

All coming to an end, thanks to the Google Fiber project implementation in Kansas City.  “Layman’s terms” here, what is the Google Fiber Project and what does it mean for me? Simply put, Google chose Kansas City (don’t ask why...just take it) to deploy the fastest internet speeds in the world.  These speeds will pretty much transform your entire web experience and quite possibly help transform new web technologies for the world! 

So why did this supposed tech titan called “Google” choose Kansas City over the 1,000+ communities that applied for this opportunity?  We’re known for cows and BBQ, and not anything tech related...right?  First off, let’s go with luck.  Google will officially state that Kansas City was chosen because “we could build efficiently, make an impact on the community, and develop working partnerships with the local government, utility and community organizations.”  All well and good, and I buy it to some degree…but I’m thinking that we were awarded this prize because it’s probably a little more cost effective here in the Midwest.

The internet speeds that Google will provide are fast...really fast.  Like, 100 times faster than you probably have in your home right now.  So what is this going to do for you, and how can it “transform” your web experience?  Ultimately, home users can download and watch “cute kitten” videos on YouTube much faster, or stream Netflix in full HD.  “Great…that really transforms my life…thanks Google (heavy sarcasm)!”   While Google does care about your media consumption, there is a bigger picture here.  First; profit.  Businesses are in business to make money, right?  Google will make a few bucks off of this deal in the long run, not based upon providing the actual internet service, but mainly based upon their business model of ad revenue (faster/better internet experience = longer time online = more ad revenues).  Second, Google is a very “forward thinking” enterprise with a number of philanthropic ventures aimed at the “greater good” of the world.  And this venture is partly about innovation.  Kansas City; this isn’t charity to us.  We are just lucky they chose us as the test bed.  Given this opportunity, Google also hopes to spur innovation for new web technologies. Who knows what ideas and/or technologies this network will generate. 

One might think that Google would take a more active role in the development of these ideas and technologies, but alas, it appears that they are simply supplying the network and leaving the rest up to us.  I dig this approach, as it lets us “little guys” in on the action.  I can help make what I want of this project without a big bureaucratic control leading a painstaking process.  So ultimately, the success of this project really depends on the creativity of the Kansas City residents.  Again, Google has given us a “tool”—its potential use and application are up to us.  Kansas City, it’s time to think broad…and BIG!  Sure, this tool may improve our current businesses and home web experience, but the rest of the world (myself included) is looking at this opportunity for us to potentially create entirely new industries and technologies!

“So, uh…if it’s up to me, where do I even begin?”  Thankfully, a few local groups have stepped up to lead Kansas City’s efforts, including the Brainzooming Group, the Social Media Club of Kansas City, Think Big Partners and the Kauffman Foundation.  Under their leadership, we have been given the opportunity to vet our ideas to the world, and even have the chance to win seed/prize money for these ventures.

Kansas City has a infinite number of ways to benefit from this opportunity, so let’s focus on how amazing this opportunity really is.  The Mayor of Kansas City, MO was recently quoted in saying, "As a result of this announcement, we have become the most attractive city on the planet to entrepreneurs."  Yep, that’s right.  Because of this opportunity, Kansas City should see a good influx of tech-savvy businesses enter into our market.  A little bit of a stretch here, but Kansas City has a golden opportunity to become the next Silicon Valley of the world.

Now that I’m done telling you about the who’s, how’s and what’s of this project, I’m going to give you my own personal commentary and plea for ideas.  Kansas City and fellow earthlings, we have the opportunity to truly revolutionize the world.  I know what you’re thinking: Revolutionize the world?  Are you kidding me!?  I am not.  Technology is behind everything we do today. Even your common “ditch digger’s” job is, in some way, impacted by technology.   With this gift from Google, we have the opportunity to develop new ideas and technologies that can truly change and influence the way we do business, interact with media content, exchange ideas, etc., etc., etc.  But it’s up to all of us to come up with these “game changing” ideas.

Many have already been hard at work, developing ideas for how to best utilize this amazing gift from Google.  I’ve read through a number of the early ideas and some have novel merits, but honestly, none have made me stop and say “that’s a game changer.”  I recently read that we are now down to 19 finalists in The Gigabit Challenge, down from the original 113 entrants.  “Wait…did you just say only 113 entrants….are you kidding me….that’s it?”  Yeah, I’m a little perplexed that given this significant opportunity that only 113 people submitted ideas.  We all use the internet every day, we all interact with various mediums of content on a daily basis….are you telling me that we only have 113 people in this world with a semblance of an idea about how we could potentially leverage this great gift?  Honestly, I’m a little vexed by this.  Where’s my idea, you ask?  Oh yeah…forgot to enter I guess.   Ok, I guess there are a few barriers to entry; legal documents, protecting your intellectual property, etc, etc….so I don’t blame everyone for not entering….it probably was a little daunting.

So I want to make it clear, I am NOT discounting or discrediting any of the ideas in the competition, but I’m honestly wondering if we’ll see some truly “wow” ideas after Google Fiber is up and running.  Personally, I’d be a little afraid of vetting my idea in front of the world only to have it potentially stolen by somebody with much deeper pockets than myself.  So maybe I shouldn’t be discouraged by the ideas given so far.  Maybe this is an amazing start…better than we could have hoped for.  Start small, think big…and let that little seed grow.

Follow The Gigabit Challenge! @GBChallengeKC     #GBFinale

Get Social During The Gigabit Challenge Finale!

@GBChallengeKC       #GBFinale

WRITTEN BY ALLISON WAY, SENIOR COPYWRITER & CHIEF EDITOR

We’re counting down the days until Think Big Partners hosts The Gigabit Challenge Finale on January 18 at the Kansas City Public Library (Plaza Branch).  Are you fully prepared to witness some of the coolest and most innovative startups out there?  We want you to have a dynamite experience—and share your thoughts with others online!

During The Gigabit Challenge Finale, we are encouraging attendees, contestants, judges and advisory board members to share their thoughts about the Finale on Twitter, Facebook and blogs.  Get social by using the hashtags, handles and pages below!

TWITTER

@GBChallengeKC

@ThinkBigKC

#GBFinale

#GoogleFiber

FACEBOOK

The Gigabit Challenge

Think Big Partners

BLOGS

Thank you to our bloggers and supporters! Want your blog to be added to the list?  Become a live blogger for The Gigabit Challenge Finale on January 18^th!  Email away@thinkbigpartners.com for more information.

Think Big Partners blog

Entrepreneurship Examiner

Kansas City Business Events Examiner

Kansas City Business News Examiner

Blog Brothers KC

Just in the Middle

Silicon Prairie News

WEBCAST

Can’t make it to the Finale? Tune into our live webcast on January 18^th and see the competition live online!  On the webcast, you will also have the opportunity to vote for the People’s Choice Award.

The Gigabit Challenge Finale webcast

PODCAST

Tune into our live podcast conducted by Beatnik Radio.  From 2:45 until 4:45 on January 18, six Finalists will be interviewed on Beatnik Radio immediately after they conclude their live pitches.  Get the reaction from contestants after the event at http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/beatnik-radio/id469601402.  

 

The Gigabit Challenge Podcast by Beatnik Radio

Register to attend The Gigabit Challenge Finale here: http://gigabitchallenge.eventbrite.com/.  

Follow me! @AllisonThinkBig

The Gigabit Challenge Announces Speakers: Senator Jerry Moran, Vint Cerf, Sly James, Joe Reardon, Kauffman Foundation

The Gigabit Challenge, a global business plan competition looking for entrepreneurial ideas to disrupt on the Google Fiber network, has announced its lineup of speakers, video presenters and event details for The Gigabit Challenge Finale on January 18, 2012 at the Kansas City Public Library (Country Club Plaza Branch).

The Gigabit Challenge Finale welcome address will begin promptly at 8:00 AM on January 18, 2012 with an introduction from United States Senator Jerry Moran (R-KS).  During the introduction, Moran will discuss the positive impact of Google Fiber, the importance of initiatives such as his Startup Act (announced in December of 2011 with co-sponsor Senator Mark Warner [D-VA]), and the entrepreneurial growth that Kansas City is experiencing.  

The Gigabit Challenge Finale will also feature video presentations from a number of national and local leaders.  Vint Cerf, Vice President and Chief Internet Evangelist at Google and Advisory Board Member for The Gigabit Challenge, will welcome the contestants and discuss the next generations of Internet applications on Google Fiber.  Other video presenters include Mayor Sly James of Missouri, Mayor Joe Reardon of Kansas, Gigabit Challenge organizer Tyler Prochnow, and the Kauffman Foundation via their animated “sketchbook” video declaring Kansas City as the “City of Entrepreneurs”.  

To conclude The Gigabit Challenge Finale, Herb Sih of Think Big Partners will deliver a community address in which he will discuss behind-the-scenes details about Think Big Partners’ decision to host The Gigabit Challenge and exciting future initiatives.  The Gigabit Challenge Finale will close with an awards presentation where winner of the $100,000 Grand Prize, the $250,000 “Born Global” Prize and the People’s Choice Award will be announced.    A detailed schedule for the Finale can be found at http://gigabitchallenge.eventbrite.com/. 

The Gigabit Challenge Finale will stream live on January 18, 2012 from 8:00AM until 5:00PM at http://www.gigabitchallenge.com/live.  A number of live bloggers, social media experts and local and national media outlets will broadcast the Finale activities.  If you are interested in attending and covering The Gigabit Challenge Finale, please contact Allison Way at away@thinkbigpartners.com.

To register to attend The Gigabit Challenge Finale, please visit http://gigabitchallenge.eventbrite.com. 

Follow The Gigabit Challenge! @GBChallengeKC     #GBFinale

Follow me! @AllisonThinkBig

Silicon Valley Bank Travels to KC for Gigabit Challenge Finale

As all entrepreneurs know, getting a bank involved in a new business venture is difficult.  But imagine how many entrepreneurs in Silicon Valley ask for bank loans each and every day.  With the amount of startups popping up (and succeeding) in the area, banks have to get heavily involved.  But are they getting involved in the Midwest too?  

Silicon Valley Bank has gotten involved in Midwestern entrepreneurial initiatives through The Gigabit Challenge.  As a partner for the Challenge, Silicon Valley Bank has provided services as well as time and energy to making The Gigabit Challenge a huge success hundreds of miles away from home (and we're not talking about Boston or Austin for that matter...we're talking about Kansas City!).  In fact, Harry Kellogg, Vice-Chairman of Silicon Valley Bank, has contributed his time and efforts to The Gigabit Challenge by participating as an Advisory Board Member.  

Silicon Valley Bank has what is known as the SVB Accelerator: a branch that helps entrepreneurs take their ideas to the next stage.  By getting a better understanding of the current funding environment, learning about networking opportunities and accelerating businesses throughout the region, Silicon Valley Banks knows how to work with entrepreneurs...and knows how to work with them effectively.  


Many thanks to Silicon Valley Bank for making The Gigabit Challenge an entrepreneur's dream come true.  The competition and event would not be possible without the support and dedication to entrepreneurship that this SV bank has given.


Follow Silicon Valley Bank! @SVBFinancial

Microsoft Strengthens Kansas City Entrepreneurship and The Gigabit Challenge

WRITTEN BY ALLISON WAY, SENIOR COPYWRITER & CHIEF EDITOR
Every so often, a product comes along that completely changes the face of entrepreneurship.  In our opinion, Microsoft BizpSpark is this product.  Microsoft BizSpark is a global program that helps software startups succeed by giving them access to Microsoft software development tools, connecting them with key industry players (including investors) and providing marketing visibility to help entrepreneurs start a business.  Without a doubt, it's products like these from companies like Microsoft that are improving the startup world and enabling entrepreneurs to achieve their dreams.  


But Microsoft has gotten involved with entrepreneurship specifically in Kansas City as well.  As a partner for The Gigabit Challenge, Microsoft has offered much more to the entrepreneurial environment in KC.  In fact, Microsoft's own Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Design Startup Director and Advisor Chris Bernard has joined the judging panel and has helped to determine the top 19 Finalists to compete in the Finale event on January 18, 2012. 


With the Microsoft partnership, The Gigabit Challenge is better and stronger than ever before.  The global business plan competition is set on impacting the nation in a positive way and bringing more entrepreneurial ideas and aspirations to the Kansas City area.  Microsoft is helping The Gigabit Challenge do just that. 


A huge thanks to Microsoft for partnering for The Gigabit Challenge.  To read a full list of our partners, please visit http://www.gigabitchallenge.com.


Follow The Gigabit Challenge! @GBChallengeKC    #GBFinale

The Gigabit Challenge Goes Live with Digital Evolution Group

WRITTEN BY ALLISON WAY, SENIOR COPYWRITER & CHIEF EDITOR

In the Internet age that we live in today, it's impossible to run a business without getting it online.  In fact, online businesses make up most of the new startups and entrepreneurial ventures in today's world.  Because of this, we need to rely heavily on companies that have an expertise in the online and on-demand environments.  And that's where Digital Evolution Group comes into play.  

Digital Evolution Group is more than an application development firm.  It's a full service e-consultancy that uses the disciplines necessary for success in today's online environment.  Digital Evolution Group is known to get inside of a business in order to intensely understand its challenges and to provide a fresh perspective.  By taking the best ideas and practices of the online industry and warping it into an appropriate technology, Digital Evolution Group knows how to reach the unique objectives that entrepreneurs go after.

Which is why The Gigabit Challenge approached Digital Evolution Group for its webcasting needs. 

On Janaury 18th, The Gigabit Challenge is hosting its Finale event in which 19 Finalists will compete in an intense, all-day pitchfest in front of investors, other startups and the public at the Kansas City Public Library.  But because The Gigabit Challenge is a global competition, it was obvious that not everybody who wanted to attend the Finale would be able to.

In order to solve this challenge, Digital Evolution Group presented The Gigabit Challenge with its high-tech webcasting capabilities.  Now, the Gigabit Challenge Finale will be broadcast throughout the world live and online at www.gigabitchallenge.com/live.

If you are unable to attend The Gigabit Challenge Finale in Kansas City, be sure to tune in live on January 18, 2012 from 8:00AM until 6:00PM (CST) to watch Gigabit Challenge speakers, pitches and awards ceremony.  This is a webcast you won't want to miss--all thanks to Digital Evolution Group.

To attend The Gigabit Challenge Finale, visit gigabitchallenge.eventbrite.com.  

Follow The Gigabit Challenge!  @GBChallengeKC    #GBFinale

Follow me!  @AllisonThinkBig

The Gigabit Challenge Reveals Order of Presenters for Jan. 18 Finale

WRITTEN BY ALLISON WAY, SENIOR COPYWRITER & CHIEF EDITOR


On January 18, The Gigabit Challenge will hold the Finale event at the Kansas City Public Library (Plaza Branch) in which the 19 selected Finalists will pitch their business plans to a panel of standout judges.  This afternoon, Scott Mize and Tyler Prochnow of Think Big Partners drew the order in which the Finalists will present:


GROUP 1
Risk Analytics, LLC
Photaic
Virtual/Real World Wallet Systems
Courthouse USA, LLC


GROUP 2
GET-GIV-GOT System Technologies
Kauzu
Green Earth Aerogel Technology
Somametric
Hong


GROUP 3
Digital City Mechanics
Strategic Office Networks, LLC
RE:Cite
Record Life


GROUP 4
Paruzia Technologies
Damascus Fortune
TiBi.tv
Voter Integrity Party
BigIris.com
SEIN Analytics & Asset Management 


Best of luck to all Finalists competing on the 18th! 


To register to attend The Gigabit Challenge Finale, please click here.  The event is free of charge and open to the public.  


Follow The Gigabit Challenge! @GBChallengeKC

The Gigabit Challenge Order of Presentations to be Revealed Jan. 6 at 1:00pm

Tomorrow at 1:00PM, The Gigabit Challenge will host a live webcast and will reveal the order that the 19 Gigabit Challenge Finalists will present at the Finale on January 18.  The 19 Finalists will be divided into three groups.  Group 1 will present from 8:30 AM to 10:00 AM, Group 2 from 10:15 AM to 11:45 AM and Group 3 from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM (exact presentation times are subject to change).

To tune into The Gigabit Challenge’s live webcast and learn the order of presenters, click here: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/gigabitchallenge.  The webcast will start at 1:00 PM (CST) on Friday, January 6, 2012. 

Best of luck to all Finalists!  We will see you January 18 at The Gigabit Challenge Finale!

Follow The Gigabit Challenge! @GBChallengeKC