Top 5 Reasons You Need to Be at iKC 2013

iKC: The Unconference is all about taking great ideas and turning them into action.  So why do you need to be at the unconference on October 3?  

1. You decide the topics you want to talk about At an "unconference," attendees submit and vote on ideas ahead of time to decide what the day's agenda will look like.Therefore, what the conference looks like is entirely up to you. Submit your ideas here.   2. Increase collision density in Kansas City Collision density is the level of collisions made between entrepreneurs, innovators, connectors, and investors in a single area. The higher an area's collision density, the more quickly and efficiently innovative development can occur. 3. This isn't a lecture hall. iKC incorporates the "Law of Two Feet." Unconference Rule #4 says, "if you're not learning or contributing, it is your responsibility to use your own two feet to find someplace where you are." If the session you're in is not a good fit, we encourage you to go find a conversation that makes more sense for you. 4. Get 1-on-1 mentorship from some of KC's most respected entrepreneurs and business leaders We're lining up some of the city's most successful entrepreneurs and business leaders for the UnMentor Program. Apply for the UnMentor program and you may have an opportunity for a 20-minute session with one of our UnMentors during the conference.   5. The After Party. No, really.  At 4:15, we'll head to the Alamo Drafthouse for the iKC Closing Session (sponsored by Google Fiber) where you can enjoy free drinks and appetizers. There will also be Open Mic awards where attendees can grab the mic and personally award prizes to a person they think had the most impact on their day. Plus! At 6:30 p.m., you'll be one of the first to see The Tech Trek, a Google Glass-enabled documentary, and learn all about the capabilities of Google Glass from the eyes of KC entrepreneurs.  **This screening is free for iKC attendees. General public tickets will become available if space permits. Claim your iKC ticket today! We will see you October 3!

Jefferson City Hosts 2nd Mid-Missouri Young Professional Summit

A few days ago, Entrepreneur.com listed Kansas City as one of the 9 Cities You Wouldn't Think Are Hubs for Tech Startups.

But we would like to add one more to that list.  And although it may not be considered a "hub", it is a Midwestern city that is making it a priority to grow it's entrepreneurial community.  Welcome to Jefferson City, MO.

Next week, the Mid-Missouri Young Professional Summit will be hosted for the second year in a row in Jefferson City.  The event will build upon the success of the Summit held in 2011, which brought more than 95 participants from the region to learn, share and speak their minds on a specific area of expertise.  In addition to networking, professional development and education, plenty of food, drink and fun will be shared by all!

But things are looking a bit different this year.  The Summit has moved to a larger facility, has expanded in length and is bringing an even bigger bang for an attendee's investment!

With speakers such as Chad Carden, Tyler Prochnow, Skinny Improv and other "peer presenters", the Mid-Missouri Young Professional Summit has been built for any entrepreneur interested in improving themselves, their work or their region.

Go check out the entrepreneurial vibes in Jefferson City at the Mid-MO Young Professional Summit on October 9, 2012 at the G2 Gallery.  Only 15 tickets are left and go for $35.00!  Register today!

Follow me! @AllisonThinkBig

Behind the Scenes: a Showcase of bizperc Powered by Think Big Partners

Get a look at the startup creation process and the KC entrepreneur scene

At bizperc, we’ve noticed a “coworking craze.”  Entrepreneurs love coming into our space to work with like-minded startups, accelerate with the Think Big Partners team and work in an inspiring and modern coworking space.

We’re changing the way businesses are built...and we want YOU to see it for yourself! 

On Thursday, January 19, Think Big Partners is hosting the bizperc Showcase and group tour from 4:00-5:30PM at 1800 Baltimore (starts on the 4th floor) in the Crossroads District of Kansas City, Missouri. 

At the Showcase, you will have the chance to interactively tour Kansas City’s modern coworking space and business accelerator, get a behind-the-scenes look at the startup creation process, showcase your own entrepreneurial ventures and learn how Think Big Partners is changing the way businesses are built...and why. 

Evening Agenda:

4:00       Meet Think Big Partners: the company that’s building companies

4:15        Tour the bizperc coworking space and see where the magic happens

5:00        Showcase your own entrepreneurial venture on bizperc’s 6^th floor with a gorgeous view of downtown KC

Experience coworking and entrepreneurship on a whole new level.  Register today for the bizperc Showcase powered by Think Big Partners and join us on Thursday, January 19 from 4:00 to 5:30PM: http://bizpercshowcasejan12.eventbrite.com

Can't make it next Thursday? Don't worry! bizperc Showcases will take place every month! Stay tuned for the next Showcase announcement. 

Questions? Call 816-842-5244, email Ann DeAngelo (adeangelo@thinkbigpartners.com) or Sarah Snyder (ssnyder@thinkbigpartners.com).  

Don’t forget to follow bizperc on Twitter (@bizperc)! 

On the 12th Day of Coworking bizperc Gave To Me...

This holiday, bizperc is hosting the 12 Days of Coworking.  For the past 12 business days, bizperc has been giving away awesome prizes in order to encourage entrepreneurs to celebrate the holiday season.  Watch the video above to learn about the 12th (and FINAL) day of coworking...and win 12 hours of fun!


What in the world does 12 hours of fun mean?  It means that you will get 12 hours of fun on our 6th floor loft space!  The 6th floor of bizperc can host any business event including networking events, educational seminars, breakfasts, luncheons, banquets, launch parties, large meetings and more!  This prize is a $1200 value, so enter the contest today!  
"Like" bizperc on Facebook and share this video with your friends.  One lucky person will be randomly selected to each win 12 hours of fun on our 6th floor.  Check out the inspirational space for yourself: http://www.bizperc.com/6th-floor.  


Good luck and Think Big!


*Excludes social events.  Single use only.  Furniture rentals, linens, set-up and tear-down included.  Weekdays only.  

Follow bizperc! @bizperc

On the 5th Day of Coworking bizperc Gave To Me...

This holiday, bizperc is hosting the 12 Days of Coworking.  For the next 12 business days, bizperc will be giving away awesome prizes in order to encourage entrepreneurs to celebrate the holiday season.  Watch the video above to learn about the 5th day of coworking...and win a business event on our 6th floor event space (a $1200 value!!).  

"Like" bizperc on Facebook and share this video with your friends.  One person will be randomly selected to win a free business event of their choice on our 6th floor loft space!  The 6th floor can host any business event including launch parties, networking events, business breakfasts, luncheons, banquets, company retreats, educational seminars, workshops and board meetings.


Not only does our 6th floor space provide a breath-taking view of downtown Kansas City, but it also provides a modern-meets-Midwest atmosphere with a full kitchen and rooftop garden.  To learn more about the 6th floor space, click here.

Good luck and Think Big!


*Weekdays only from 5:00-8:00 PM.  Up to 75 people.  Catering and drinks must be provided by you.  Tables, chairs and linens provided by bizperc.  Excludes social parties (i.e. birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, receptions, etc.).  

Follow bizperc! @bizperc

PIPELINE Infuses Art and Entrepreneurship at Innovator of the Year Event

WRITTEN BY ALLISON WAY, SENIOR COPYWRITER & CHIEF EDITOR


Colorful.  Agile.  Unique.  Rare vision.  These may be words to describe Kansas City art, but do they describe Kansas City entrepreneurs too?


One Kansas City organization thinks so.  PIPELINE, a Kansas-based entrepreneurial fellowship is hosting the Innovator of the Year event which will highlight the creativity and artistry of entrepreneurs and artists in a creative and collaborative Kansas City atmosphere.


The day will feature a competition for the PIPELINE Innovator of the Year, gathering of the entire alumni and mentor community, discussions with national leaders around trends and strategies for entrepreneurs and loads of high impact networking.


The evening will also feature a multi-media dinner event, showcasing the entire PIPELINE network.  Attendees should expect to meet local entrepreneurs, members of the national network and the local Kansas PIPELINE team.


This year, the IOTY event is sure to blow all other events out of the water.  Given the recent $800,000 infusion from the Kauffman Foundation to expand PIPELINE across the region, it seems like this event will be worth attending.


On January 26, 2012, kick the New Year off right and celebrate entrepreneurship and art in Kansas City at One Night.  One Canvas.  Unlimited Expression. - The Innovator of the Year Event.  Register for the PIPELINE event on the Innovator of the Year's Eventbrite page.  Tickets will cost $175 and tables run for $1,750.


Follow me! @AllisonThinkBig

From Pitching to Pampering: “Treasure You” Teaches Women Purpose, Passion and Power

The mompreneur and the woman-in-business fads are far from over.  Women everywhere are changing the face of business by climbing the corporate ladder, starting new businesses, and developing the nation’s coolest new tech initiatives (all while sporting the season’s hottest heels).  Women are slowly taking over the business world through the creation of the mompreneur and the powerful woman business mogul.  Although this initiative comes from many different parts of the globe, Frisco, Texas is putting women empowerment on the map thanks to the will-power of Pat Smith; founder and owner of Pat Smith Enterprises and creative mind behind the Treasure You Girlfriend’s Retreat. 


Pat Smith of Treasure You.

On September 16-17 of 2011, Pat Smith (see above) is hosting the Treasure You Girlfriend’s Retreat at the Westin Stonebriar Resort in Frisco, Texas.  The event aims to leave its guests with a renewed sense of purpose, passion and power.  All Treasure You retreats are created so that women can reconnect with themselves and encourage their spirit through remembering their worth and treasuring themselves.  This takes place in a variety of different ways.

The event kicks off with a welcome reception, Mexican Fiesta dinner and private pajama party on Friday night.  On Saturday, attendees will enjoy a morning workout followed by valuable workshops and a motivational keynote speech by Pat Smith herself during Burgers ‘n Banana Splits.  Saturday is rounded out by a Treasure You Luxury Experience where attendees will be pampered, shop, have fun and learn from smart and savvy women entrepreneurs. 

Although one moment a woman may be pitching to a roomful of venture capitalists, the next she could be doing eight loads of laundry for her family.   It’s time to empower these women even further.  It’s time for them to find their purpose. It’s time for them to treasure themselves.

Although the Treasure You Girlfriend’s Retreat is completely sold out, more Treasure You events will take place in the future.  To learn more about Treasure You, Pat Smith and the many philanthropic and community events in the area, please visit www.treasureyou.org.   

Written by Allison Way

@AllisonThinkBig

TEDxKC Blasts Off Tonight!

The buzz is in the air: tonight the TEDxKC conference will be in full swing at 6:00pm on the dot.  During the event, attendees are invited to examine how radical collaboration, transparency and an open-source mind-set are shaping the world today.  Tickets are (of course) sold out.  But for those lucky ticket-holders, the TEDxKC conference will take place from 6-8:15pm at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art.

To learn more about TEDxKC, check out the blog we wrote about it a few weeks ago:

TEDxKC on Think Big Kansas City blog

Have fun and Think Big!

Written by Allison Way
@AllisonThinkBig

Less Than One Month Until Think Big Baltimore!

The last two years, the Think Big Kansas City Conference has brought a diverse group of entrepreneurs, investors, startups, leaders and visionaries together under one roof.  By providing them with a day of inspiration and entrepreneurial education, Think Big Kansas City helped big thinkers achieve their dreams.  And now Think Big is getting BIGGER!  Inspired by Think Big Kansas City, a group of Maryland entrepreneurs have organized Think Big Baltimore coming to Towson University on July 13, 2011.

The entrepreneurial scene in Baltimore is booming. It is the perfect city to host the next Think Big Conference.  A growing number of small business resources such as CreateBaltimore, Innovate Baltimore and Startup Weekend are all drivers of new industry growth in the area.  Think Big Baltimore (also known as TBB) hopes to create opportunities that turn into new jobs and spur economic growth.  The conference will be serving up expert advice from those who have “been there, done that.”

You will not want to miss keynote speaker Yanik Silver, CEO of Maverick Business Adventures.  He will be sharing his fascinating story about life as a serial entrepreneur and how he turned an $1800 investment into a 7-figure online business.  As a self-proclaimed “adventure junkie”, Yanik is bound to share stories that will educate and entertain.  Other featured speakers include Techstars Mentor/Investor Ronald Schmelzer, Co-Founder of Startup City Mike Subelsky, and Urban Policy Development Consultant Otis Rolley.

In addition to the many fascinating speakers, attendees will get the chance to participate in CrowdPitch.  During CrowdPitch, several selected companies will pitch their ideas to a panel of judges who will decide the two winning presentations.  Audience members will get their chance to weigh in by investing their own “FUN” money in their favorite company pitch.

Think Big Baltimore is only a month away.  Buy tickets now to reserve your place! Think Big Baltimore is the ideal opportunity to network and turn your ideas into something big.  We cannot wait to see what the BIG thinking entrepreneurs of Baltimore can produce!       

Written by Laura Goede.

@LauraGThinkBig.

Are You at Risk for Being "Facebook Fired"?

Although Facebook can act as a small business’s saving grace (thanks social media!), it can also get individuals (and even companies) into a boatload of trouble.  When an employee of a company gets in trouble for what they put on Facebook, they can be fired in an instant.  In fact, so many people have had this happen to them that the term “Facebook Fired” has been coined in the business world. 

Last week, I attended the Kansas City Chamber of Commerce Brainfood Breakfast called Does Facebook Have You Twittering about LinkedIn?  The breakfast discussed the importance of social media, especially when it comes to networking and getting your company’s name out there.  But in addition, the seminar also covered an area that I wasn’t as familiar with: that of being “Facebook Fired”.

In the seminar, I was introduced to one of the funniest and most infamous “Facebook Fired” real-life examples:

So the next time you’re tempted to vent about your job, make a funny comment about a partner, or post pictures of yourself after you called in “sick”, just remember, you could get “Facebook Fired!” 

Obviously, this is one of the more extreme examples of "Facebook Fired", but it is only one of the many.  Avoid becoming "Facebook Fired" (or having to "Facebook Fire" someone) but following these general guidelines:

Facebook Tip #1: Use your Facebook account for the social part of your life.  LinkedIn can be used just as effectively for your work life.  This may mean not friending your boss or your coworkers on Facebook.

Facebook Tip #2: Keep in mind that once it's on the Internet, it is public.  No matter how "secure" your privacy settings are set on Facebook, there may be a way for someone to access it.

Facebook Tip #3: A good rule of thumb for deciding whether or not to publish something on Facebook: if you have to debate it, DON'T POST IT. 

Written by Allison Way.  Allison is a writer for Think Big Partners, Kansas City’s early-stage startup incubator and business accelerator.  To read more of Allison’s work, check out the Kansas City Entrepreneurship Examiner as well as her articles on Helium, BrooWaha and eZine.  Follow Allison! @AllisonThinkBig

How to Read 64,000 Words in 30 Minutes...and Improve Your Business

The average newspaper has about 2,000 words per page.  This means that the Kansas City Business Journal, a 32-page newspaper, has about 64,000 words in each edition.  But which words are the most important to read?  Within those thousands of words, what did you miss?  Questions like this have been asked for years, and now, the Kansas City Business Journal is helping you make the most out of the newspaper.  The Smart Reader Series will teach techniques for finding what you need from the KCBJ in less than 30 minutes each week—and this series is coming to bizperc this month.

Kent Barthol, consumer marketing director of the Kansas City Business Journal, will host the Smart Reader Series event on Tuesday, February 8^th from 11:30AM until 1:00 PM at bizperc, 1800 Baltimore Avenue, Kansas City, MO.  NOTICE:  The Smart Reader Series has been cancelled and will be rescheduled for a later date.  Stay tuned for further information.

“My goal is to show people more business opportunities in the paper through the web and through our events so people can discover,” says Barthol.  “I can teach [entrepreneurs] new ways to communicate with clients and prospects, and ultimately, discuss ways that the Business Journal can help them gain a competitive advantage and differentiate themselves from competitors.” 

During the Smart Reader Series, attendees will learn techniques for finding what they need out of the Business Journal, business information to help them achieve sales goals, how to pitch their company’s story to the editorial staff and much more. 

The Smart Reader Series runs as a workshop as well as a networking opportunity.  During the event, attendees are invited to present themselves and connect with one another.  The event, according to Barthol, is one that “maximizes all opportunities”.

“To be successful, you have to know what’s going on in the business community,” Barthol says.  “The Business Journal delivers that in the form of content and leads that can drive from a newspaper.  By knowing what’s going on in the business community and actively utilizing a product like the Kansas City Business Journal, you will get to a higher level of business conversation.  It will educate you about who to do business with in town and better your business.”    

Register today for the Smart Reader Series and learn how you can get the most out of those 64,000 words!

Written by Allison Way.  Allison is a writer and videographer for Think Big Partners, Kansas City’s mentorship-based business incubator and startup accelerator.  To read more of Allison’s work, check out the Kansas City Entrepreneurship Examiner as well as her articles on Helium, BrooWaha, eZine and Newsvine.

Harbors, Crab Cakes and Now Entrepreneurship- Announcing Think Big Baltimore!

“I recently read a book stating that the average US citizen lives a much more luxurious life than Louis XIV,” began Tighe Greenhalgh, organizing partner of Think Big Baltimore. 

I sat there, phone still pasted to my ear, wondering where this interview was about to go.

“It talks about the fact that Louis could never imagine being protected from the oppressive summer heat by air conditioning,” he continued.  “Louis could never have fathomed climbing into a plane and in three hours, walking into a completely different part of the world.  Today, each of us can go to a movie theater and be personally entertained by the best performers in the world.  We can walk into a restaurant and have a professional chef make exactly what we ask for.  And the fact is, entrepreneurs made all that possible.”

And then, everything clicked.  And Tighe Greenhalgh was absolutely right.

Greenhalgh’s fascination with entrepreneurship led him to read books such as these, but also led him to get involved in six different startup companies from medical supply companies, to green energy companies, to non-profits.  But no matter what Greenhalgh is specializing in at the moment, whether it’s a new non-profit organization or Louis XIV, one this is for sure: it involves entrepreneurship. 

“People love freedom.  And for me, nothing provides freedom like being an entrepreneur,” said Greenhalgh.  “So, when I heard about a conference that was promoting entrepreneurship and helping entrepreneurs, I immediately thought, ‘I have to get that in Baltimore.’”

Greenhalgh is talking about Think Big Kansas City.  After attending the event last March, he found the opportunity to expand its reach to more cities throughout the country—starting, of course, with Baltimore. 

“I think the attitude in Baltimore and Kansas City—and other cities like Boston, Detroit, Denver, and Philadelphia—is that they all want to establish themselves as a hotbed for startups and entrepreneurs,” said Greenhalgh.  “The fact is the entire country has that desire.  As word gets around that there is an event like this, any metropolitan area is going to jump at it.  They’ll all want the opportunity to put their entrepreneurs in one place, celebrate what they do, and let them do more together.” 

Greenhalgh was sure to note the national reputation that Baltimore currently has.  He made note of the city’s problems, but also explained the large population that is constantly looking for solutions to these issues.  “Baltimore possesses a very intelligent and very passionate group of entrepreneurs that are working to make Baltimore a better place,” he said.  “Entrepreneurship is what makes Baltimore what it is.” 

So maybe it’s time to put aside the crab cakes, harbors, John Hopkin’s hospital and the drug trades that Baltimore has always been known for.  Now, we may start to identify Baltimore as a city of entrepreneurship and growth. 

Think Big Baltimore, the Premier Conference for Entrepreneurs, Investors and Startups, is to take place July 13^th at Towson University (hosted by TowsonGlobal, the university’s incubator).  For more information about Think Big Baltimore, call 866-THNK-BIG or visit their website (to be launched within the next few weeks) at http://www.thinkbigbaltimore.com/. Stay tuned for more information about Think Big Baltimore!

Bigger is better.  And now, we’re bringing big to Baltimore. 

Written by Allison Way.  Allison is a writer and videographer for Think Big Partners, Kansas City’s mentorship-based business incubator and startup accelerator.  To read more of Allison’s work, please visit the Kansas City Entrepreneurship Examiner as well as her articles on BrooWaha, eZine, Newsvine and Helium. 

Think Big Partners Sneak Preview Event

This Wednesday, January 12th, Think Big Partners is inviting you to join us for our Sneak Preview Event from 4:00-6:00pm.  The event will take place at our 6th floor location at 1800 Baltimore in the Crossroads District of downtown Kansas City.

What can you expect at the event?  We've been brewing up a lot of exciting things for entrepreneurs to experience in 2011.  At this Sneak Preview Event, we will be announcing exactly what these secrets are!  Included in the announcements are details about the Think Big Kansas City 2011 Conference as well as a few other tricks that we have up our sleeves.  Join us for beer, wine and giveaways at 5:00pm.  The event is open to the public and absolutely free.  Please RSVP via LinkedIn only to confirm group membership. 

Be the first to know what's in store for entrepreneurs in 2011 by attending the Think Big Partners Sneak Preview Event.  See you Wednesday! 


Written by Allison Way.  Allison is a writer and videographer for Think Big Partners.  To read more of Allison's work, please visit the Kansas City Entrepreneurship Examiner as well as her articles on Helium, BrooWaha and eZine. 

Bring On the Ideas! Startup Weekend 2011 in Kansas City

We know you’ve got a great idea.  Now it’s time to take that leap of faith and see if your big idea can become a big business.  And there’s no better time to start than now.  It’s a new year, a fresh start and time to launch your business idea.  So start this month by attending Startup Weekend 2011, the perfect opportunity to see if your business idea is feasible, achievable, and of course, profitable. 

In April 2011, entrepreneurs and big thinkers are invited to attend Startup Weekend—an intense 54-hour event which focuses on building a web or mobile application which could form the basis of a credible business over the course of a weekend. The weekend brings together people with different skill sets—primarily software developers, graphics designers and business people—to build applications and develop a commercial case around them.  Even more importantly, Startup Weekend has become a networking opportunity unlike any other in Kansas City.  This January, Startup Weekend sets sail with a workshop and networking event to kickstart the intense weekend in April.

“Most networking opportunities are quick exchanges of business cards,” says Steven Chau, local organizer of Startup Weekend in Kansas City.  “Startup Weekend actually allows entrepreneurs to work together throughout the weekend.  It feels like a summer camp and helps to create entrepreneurial camaraderie.  It’s an energizing experience that actually allows entrepreneurs to make friendships.”

This January, entrepreneurs are invited to attend Startup Weekend’s workshops where they can learn about lean startup methodology through interactive challenges and learning experiences.  The Startup Weekend competition will then commence in April with a panel of judges and a plethora of business pitches. 

“My main goal is to provide an event for budding entrepreneurs,” says Chau.  “Events like this allow entrepreneurs to work on problems that they are passionate about.  That’s extremely empowering.” 

So if you’re looking to pitch your business idea, look no further than Startup Weekend—taking place in our very own backyard!  This is Kansas City’s third Startup Weekend, and is looking to be its most successful. 

Startup Weekend allows for like-minded people to come together and achieve a common goal.  If Startup Weekend sounds like the event for you and your big thinking, be sure to check out the Startup Weekend website for more information.

Written by Allison Way.  Allison is a writer and videographer for Think Big Partners.  Check out more of Allison's articles on the Kansas City Entrepreneurship Examiner, Helium, BrooWaha and eZine.

There's only a few days left to let us know what can improve the Kansas City entrepreneurial community!  Let us know by taking our poll (above).

InvestMidwest: Start Chasing Your American Dream with the Top Venture Capital Firms in the Midwest!



InvestMidwest is an opportunity for Kansas
City entrepreneurs to receive funding
and achieve their American Dream.


There’s no need to travel to the East or West Coast to connect with top venture capital firms. In fact, you need to look no further than Kansas City, Missouri. InvestMidwest is the venture conference of the Midwest for entrepreneurs and startup companies located within the center corridor of the United States.

The 12th annual InvestMidwest conference provides entrepreneurs the opportunity to pitch their business ideas with ten minute PowerPoint presentations to some of the top venture capital firms in the Midwest including venture capitalists, private investors and corporate investors.  The conference will showcase companies in three different industry tracks including life sciences, technology/general business and cleantech/alternative energy. With business pitches given to over 250 attendees, InvestMidwest is an effective way to receive potential capital funding from respected and experienced firms.

“It’s our goal to find the best companies in the Midwest to showcase for our investor audience,” says Christine Walsh, executive director of InvestMidwest.  “This is a venture-fundable opportunity that is an obvious need in the Missouri-Kansas market.”

With over $400 million in investment in 11 years, InvestMidwest is every entrepreneur’s dream. And it’s not too late to apply for this once-a-year opportunity. Applications are being accepted December 1st through January 7th. All companies will be contacted by February 11th regarding their acceptance. In order to apply for InvestMidwest, companies must meet the following criteria:
• Located within the center corridor of the United States
• Seeking $1M to $20M in funding
• Revenue projections of $20M within five years (with the exception of life sciences companies)

“InvestMidwest allows companies to stay here instead of heading off to the coasts for capital raising opportunities,” says Walsh.  “We very much appreciate the support of the Midwest community—especially in Kansas City.  Their support means the world to us.”

InvestMidwest provides access to capital for emerging, privately held companies and to promote greater entrepreneurship, business growth and expansion in the Midwest. Is your company looking for an exceptional business opportunity? InvestMidwest may be it!

InvestMidwest will take place March 30-31st in Kansas City. To learn more about the event, visit the InvestMidwest website or contact Christine Walsh at cwalsh@stlrcga.org or 314-444-1151.

Written by Allison Way. Allison is a writer and videographer for Think Big Partners and bizperc, two of Kansas City’s newest entrepreneurial resources. To read more of Allison’s work, check out the Kansas City Entrepreneurship Examiner.

The Secrets of Effective Marketing to be Revealed at The AAF-KC's "Entrepreneur's Exchange"

The Kansas City chapter of the American Advertising Federation (AAF-KC) is hosting an event to benefit local KC entrepreneurs in the attempt to answer many of the marketing- and advertising-related questions that small business owners struggle to answer.  The event is called The Entrepreneur’s Exchange—a unique opportunity to meet some of Kansas City’s smartest self-starters who have dedicated themselves to carrying on that tradition and hear their perspective on how marketing continues to help build small businesses.

The Entrepreneur’s Exchange allows Kansas City entrepreneurs to pick the brains of featured panelists and engage in important entrepreneurial discussions.  The topics of the panel will include the development process, the marketing and advertising strategies that business owners have implemented, how each one views marketing and how it is changing in our economic and social conditions, and what a business should look for when working with a marketing partner.  The panelists include:

• Danny O’Neill – Bean Baron from The Roasterie
• Jigger James – founder of Repairs Unlimited
• John Nohe – president of j•n•a advertising
• Patrice Maneul – owner of P/Strada Management Consulting
• And others!

Since 1902, the American Advertising Federation of Kansas City has played an active role in the advertising, marketing and communications industry in the greater Kansas City area.  Serving as a forum to develop a better understanding of the values of the industry, AAF-KC is dedicated to good fellowship and a free exchange of ideas among its members.  The Entrepreneur's Exchange is just one of the many events that the 600-member-strong AAF-KC organization holds each year.

Julie Parker, senior account manager of Meers Advertising, notes that The Entrepreneur's Exchange is a great way to continue the growth of Kansas City entrepreneurship.  "The city we live in is a hot bed for new business ventures and offers the support and resources necessary to start companies," she says.  "Just look at H&R Block, Hallmark, Helzberg.  These are major brands who started right here in Kansas City and continue to make a difference in our community.  As advertisers and marketers, it's important for us to understand how these entrepreneurs think and how we can help them grow their business."  

The Entrepreneur’s Exchange will take place on December 9, 2010 from 5:30-7:30PM at Department Zero (111 W. 20^th Street in Kansas City, Missouri).  Member’s price is $10.00 and non-member’s price is $20.00.  To learn more about The Entrepreneur's Exchange, visit the AAF-KC site.  

A big thanks to the American Advertising Federation of Kansas City in their effort to spread the importance of entrepreneurship, and to those panelists whose advice and guidance can help future Kansas City small business owners and entrepreneurs!  Way to Think Big!

Written by Allison Way.  Allison is a writer and videographer for Think Big Partners and bizperc, two of Kansas City’s newest entrepreneurial resources.  To read more of Allison’s work, check out the Kansas City Entrepreneurship Examiner.  

Global Entrepreneurship Week: Imagine What Your Business Can Learn From 100 Countries, 10 Million People, and 40,000 Events...in One Week

The more the merrier, right?  The more people that attend a networking event, the more opportunities you have to make the perfect business connection.  The more people you interact with in a day, the more advice you can gain about your next big business idea.  The more people that come in to utilize your business, the more successful your business becomes.  

That's the idea behind Global Entrepreneurship Week: and with 100 countries, 10 million people, 40,000 and one extremely cool week-- entrepreneurs cannot help but celebrate the impact of numbers and the notion of "the more the merrier!"  

Happy Global Entrepreneurship Week, entrepreneurs!  This is the week to celebrate everything entrepreneur: from innovation to creation, from moving to shaking, from idea to successful business.  With over a dozen entrepreneurial events happening this week in Kansas City, a budding or seasoned entrepreneur cannot go wrong by attending some of the extremely beneficial GEW events.  But there is an even better way to celebrate Global Entrepreneurship Week—start up your own business today!

Kansas City entrepreneurs and small business owners can find total inspiration from a week-long celebration like Global Entrepreneurship Week.  By attending many of Global Entrepreneurship Week’s Kansas City events, such as Entrepreneurs in Motion, Central Exchange’s Celebration of Women Entrepreneurs, and the Fourth Annual Kansas City Small and Home Business Connection Expo, future entrepreneurs can gain beneficial advice and develop effective business ideas. 

With the involvement of 100 countries, 10 million people and the inclusion of 40,000 events, Global Entrepreneurship Week truly is a global movement that unleashes new ideas.  In a nutshell, GEW is a gigantic collaborative opportunity.  Since millions and millions of people are coming together for the event, Global Entrepreneurship Week is proof of the benefit of numbers.  Collaboration brings businesses together, molds creative ideas, and connects the most interesting and fast-paced people in this world—entrepreneurs. 

So, why not start today, entrepreneurs?  Find inspiration in one of the many Kansas City Global Entrepreneurship Week events and get started today—there’s no time like the present to think big, jumpstart your business idea and get going on a new successful business.  

Written by Allison Way.  Allison is a writer and videographer for Think Big Partners and bizperc, two of Kansas City's newest entrepreneurial resources.  To read more of Allison's work, check out the Kansas City Entrepreneurship Examiner.  

Midwestern Small Businesses Turn to Silicon Prairie for Startup News, Entrepreneur Opportunities, and Business Ideas

Today, we would like to spotlight Silicon Prairie, a blog and event producer founded in Omaha, Nebraska in July of 2008.  The company posts interviews with entrepreneurs and small business owners, gives updates about startup companies, announces and hosts business events, and provides entrepreneurs with business opportunities and startup advice. 

Silicon Prairie provides entrepreneurs and small business owners with numerous startup opportunities and business events, including Creative Capital Pitch Session, the Big Omaha conference, Omaha Tweetups, The Omaha Blog Co., Barcamp Omaha and Highlight Midwest.  All of these entrepreneur events are designed to bring together the region’s startup companies and the people who envision them; serious entrepreneurs.

So if you want to read up on the latest startup news, successful business ideas, and Midwest entrepreneur opportunities, visit the Silicon Prairie website.  On the site, you will be able to watch interviews with successful entrepreneurs, creatives, and investors, read features such as the Weekly Wrap Up, Five in Five, and the Tools for the Trade. 

In addition, Silicon Prairie displays other business events that are taking place in the Midwestern region.  This week, Silicon Prairie highlights the Iowa Venture Capital and Entrepreneur Conference taking place today at the Hy-Vee Hall Iowa Events Center in Des Moines. 

Visit Silicon Prairie and read up about what our neighboring entrepreneur promoters and advocates are doing to enhance entrepreneurship in the Midwest and give recognition to successful Midwestern startup companies and small business leaders! 

Written by Allison Way.  Allison Way is a writer and videographer for Think Big Partners and bizperc, two of Kansas Citiy's newest entrepreneurial resources.  To read more of Allison's work, check out the Kansas City Entrepreneurship Examiner.  

KC Biz Live Allows Entrepreneurs to Network, Showcase their Businesses, and Explore Kansas City Innovation

On Thursday, the Kansas City Chamber of Commerce is hosting KC Biz Live, an annual Kansas City business event that attracts more than 1,000 movers and shakers in the area—including local entrepreneurs and small business owners.

 

Kansas City entrepreneurs, innovators, and small business owners are invited to tour tabletop exhibits of more than 100 Chamber member businesses from a wide variety of industries, shop for products and services for their own companies, meet Kansas City entrepreneurs and innovators who are facing today’s business challenges, and of course, visit with new potential customers, vendors, and strategic partners.   In addition, this Kansas City business event is featuring “Be the VC” in which attendees can vote for the most innovative emerging company in Kansas City.

KC Biz Live will also allow the public a sneak peak at the Kansas City Chamber of Commerce’s new home, located inside of Union Station.  Attendees will even have the chance to see floor plans and renderings for the new event room, the Board Room.

Kansas City Chamber members have the ability to showcase their companies at a tabletop exhibit.  Tables can be reserved for $200 (for a business) and $150 (for a nonprofit organization).  Be sure to reserve a table ahead of time for a premier location and extra visibility.  Showcased companies will not only promote Kansas City innovation and ingenuity at this business event, but the companies will also be able to give off a professional image with a draped cocktail table, table signage, complimentary parking, pre-printed nametags, two drink tickets, a company name listed on the website, and  an invitation to the informational exhibitor seminar.

KC Biz Live will take place on Thursday, October 7, 2010 from 3:00pm-6:00pm at the North Hall of Union Station, 30 West Pershing Road, Kansas City, Missouri.  This Kansas City business event is open to the public and absolutely free.  It is the perfect opportunity to take away new business relationships and network with a fresh, exciting prospective on new and innovative Kansas City businesses!  Think Big—attend KC Biz Live! 

Written by Allison Way.  Allison is a writer and videographer for Think Big Partners and bizperc, two of Kansas City's newest entrepreneurial resources.  For more of Allison's work, check out the Kansas City Entrepreneurship Examiner.