Think Big Accelerator in partnership with Microsoft Ventures

You may already know about Microsoft Ventures which currently has accelerator locations in Tel Aviv, Bangalore and Beijing (and is opening several more soon).  But you may not know that Microsoft Ventures is partnering with a selected few established U.S. accelerators to provide immersive programs, mentoring, technical guidance and connections.  One of those selected few accelerators is Think Big Accelerator.

Think Big Accelerator in partnership with Microsoft Ventures will be one of only a few partnerships of its kind in the United States.  Microsoft Ventures will act as a strategic partner for promising startups in the Think Big Accelerator program focused on business growth, customer development, industrial strength technology and beautiful usable products. 

According to Cliff Reeves, who leads the Microsoft Ventures Community team, “Entrepreneurism is a local phenomenon everywhere, and Think Big Partners represents the best of KC as well as startup reach nationally and globally.  We’re very pleased to be working with them to find and support great startups.”

The partnership between Think Big Accelerator and Microsoft Ventures will provide accelerator companies access to even more mentors, resources and connections.  As Microsoft Ventures is a corporate run partnership with the intent to engage and support a select few independent accelerators per geo, the local Microsoft field office will play an active role in day-to-day support and mentorship of Think Big Partners’ startups as part of this partnership. While the Microsoft BizSpark program will be providing software, support and visibility to the startups, Microsoft Ventures will be providing additional resources through this limited partnership to better enable the startups success on the Microsoft platform while they develop their business as a whole. Along with providing consistent access to Microsoft technical resources and devices, startups engaged in the Think Big Accelerator will have the opportunity to qualify for additional benefits via the BizSpark Plus program where startups qualify for a rich set of offers including Office 365 and Azure.

"We at Think Big Partners are very excited to grow what has already been a great learning relationship with Microsoft,” says Blake Miller, Director of Think Big Accelerator.  “The resources that Microsoft adds to our checklist-oriented process will help us get entrepreneurs from idea to first customer faster and even more efficiently."

If you are interested in joining what is sure to be one of the strongest accelerator partnerships in the country, we encourage you to apply for the Think Big Accelerator program.  Think Big Accelerator typically invests between $18,000-$50,000.  Upon acceptance into the program, you will instantly have access to the benefits and connections that Microsoft brings to the startup world.  To learn more or apply to Think Big Accelerator, click here.

A Match.com for startups, PitchCastr seeks to connect investors with entrepreneurs

WRITTEN BY TIM SAMPSON, NEWSCASTIC 

Rejection is hard enough in the business world. But do you really need to fly across the country just to be told “no?”

The folks at ThinkBigPartners.com don’t think so, and they’re poised to soft launch a new service at South By Southwest this year aimed at cutting out the time startups waste courting the wrong investors while making it easier to connect with the right ones.

“It’s a frustrating process,” said Herb Sih, co-founder and managing partner of Think Big. “We watch a lot of our entrepreneurs spend money to get on a plane, fly across the country to meet with investors who may not even be interested in what they have to say, just to get a rejection. There has to be a better way.”

Sih and his partners hope they’ve found a better way in the form of PitchCastr. Something of a Match.com for start-ups and venture capitalist, the site lets financial backers browse through a catalogue of pitch videos posted by nascent business owners looking to secure capital.

Online for nearly a month now, the Kansas City-based entrepreneurial incubator hopes PitchCastr can break away from the pack at SXSW Interactive this week in Austin, Texas. The key to doing this, Sih said, is to distinguish the new service from similar funding-based operations like Kickstarter.

“The scope is a lot bigger than Kickstarter,” Sih said. “We’re not just looking to raise funds for our entrepreneurs. We want to connect them with serious investors who will make a commitment.”

The promise of PitchCastr is two-fold. It’s designed to let entrepreneurs cast the widest possible net for funding, while simultaneously helping investors sort through just the pitches that interest them.

Start-ups post a brief video pitch online (no more than 10 minutes). From there, financiers look through and select the ones that pique their interest. If enough investors show interest in the same idea, the entrepreneurs can then schedule a live “demo day” in which they can teleconference with all the interested backers simultaneously.

“I think this is going to cut down on a lot of travel time and a lot of wasted time,” Sih said.

PitchCastr is a logical extension for Think Big, a company that prides itself on moving startups quickly from the incubator stage to financial self-sufficiency. The National Business Incubation Association reports that most startups spend an average of 33 months in a business incubator or accelerator firm.

But from its inception in 2010, Think Big has been focused on revving up the process. Based out of a 20,000 sq. ft. office in downtown Kansas City, the firm has already served nearly 400 clients, with an emphasis on establishing revenue streams within 90 days.

“On average, start-ups are spending 2-3 years inside incubators,” Sih said. “That may have been fine at one time. But in the tech world, your market could be gone in 2-3 years.”

In addition to helping investors, Think Big is also helping to boost the profile of Sih’s hometown of Kansas City as a hotbed for technology startups. Though it may seem like an unlikely location, Kansas City has been integral in nearly doubling the number of start-ups in the Midwest, according to Venture51. The town was also chosen as one of the pilot cities for Google’s fiber optic program because of all the startup activity. Think Big also partnered with the city’s chamber of commerce last year to host its first startup conference. PitchCastr is a Microsoft Bizspark company, using the Windows Azure platform.

“There’s more going on here than people might realize,” Sih said. “And in this day and age, it’s easy to connect and start a tech company from just about anywhere.”

And with the arrival of PitchCaster [sic], that’s just the point that Sih and his partners are hoping to make.

Sponsored by Microsoft BizSpark providing Software, Support, and Visibility to Software Startups. Visit microsoft.com/bizspark for more information.

Read the original story: http://www.newscastic.com/news/a-match-com-for-startups-pitchcastr-seeks-to-connect-investors-with-entrepreneurs-227168/ 

Follow PitchCastr: @PitchCastrTips 

Think Big, PitchCastr, Turnstone Host SXSW Startup Rehab

Rest.  Relax.  Recharge.  It's time for Startup Rehab!

A dynamite collaboration between Think Big Partners, PitchCastr and Turnstone brought on a new idea that many entrepreneurs and startups may want to take advantage of at SXSW in Austin.  Together, the three companies, along with the support of Microsoft, are partnering to host Startup Rehab--an opportunity to rest, relax, recharge, plug in, meet up, connect and pitch at the Turnstone Mobile Coworking Space.

Parked in the lot at 4th and Red River (the Northeast corner of the SXSW Convention Center), the Turnstone Mobile Coworking Space will be open to all entrepreneurs attending SXSW as a place to hold meetings, hang out, connect and even network with PitchCastr, Think Big Partners and Microsoft to learn more ways on how to accelerate a startup.

But wait.  There's more.  It's not called Startup Rehab for nothing!  The Turnstone Mobile Coworking Space is also available to help entrepreneurs relax and recover with chair massages, delicious snacks, Smart Coffee and cocktails.

How can you get into Startup Rehab?  It's simple.  Simply look for the black bus with myturnstone.com and "space matters" written on the side.  Then, come on in and see how this bus is transforming the way entrepreneurs do work at SXSW!  The bus will be open throughout SXSW.

Don't worry--no SXSW badge required.

Startup Rehab takes place on Sunday, March 10, 2013 (you deserve it after a wild SXSW Saturday night) from 12:00-4:00pm.

A special thanks to Turnstone, the company that is truly changing the way entrepreneurs and startups office.  And another special thanks to Microsoft, PitchCastr partner and supporter.

Learn more about StartupRehab by following #StartupRehab and @thinkbigKC on Twitter. 

Think Big Partners Launches PitchCastr Virtual Demo Day Platform for Entrepreneurs and Investors

Think Big Partners is thrilled to announce a new virtual demo day platform for both entrepreneurs and investors.  The platform, known as PitchCastr, is not just another funding platform—it’s a connection platform.  PitchCastr incorporates science-based research, the flexibility to make deals anywhere at any time, a filtration process that weeds out companies outside the investor’s area of interest and a standardized format that allows select entrepreneurs and investors to experience a live, virtual pitch from the comfort of their own home or office. 

PitchCastr For Entrepreneurs 

By establishing a PitchCastr profile, uploading a business plan and recording a seven to nine minute PitchCastr video pitch, entrepreneurs will use the virtual demo day platform to find investors that are interested in their idea.  When a certain number of investors have expressed interest in the idea, that entrepreneur will be invited to hold a Live Demo Day, in which all potential investors will tune in via online video platform.  The PitchCastr platform will eliminate first-time entrepreneur/investor meetings that not only take up too much time, but will also put an entrepreneur’s idea in front of only those investors who are genuinely interested and able to invest. 

PitchCastr for Investors 

Investors can log in to the PitchCastr platform, submit their pitch preferences and search a pre-screened selection of PitchCastr videos that they may be interested in funding.  When interested, investors are invited to “Attend Demo Day” and can both watch a live feed of a pitch and partake in a question-and-answer session.  The PitchCastr platform gathers insight about both a business plan and an entrepreneur, providing investors with a more robust view of potential opportunities.  The virtual demo day addresses the issue of rising valuations in the middle of a capital raise.

“We created PitchCastr with the entrepreneur in mind,” explains Herb Sih, co-founder and managing partner of Think Big Partners.  “Between running a startup company and executing their plans at full speed, there is never enough time in the day to connect with investors, not to mention investors that are actually interested in your idea.  PitchCastr is not only a simple way to get your idea out into the world, but will also be the best way to connect with investors who are interested in your idea and ready to fund it.” 

“In today’s environment, investors are overwhelmed by entrepreneurs.  There are too many business plans to look over and not enough time to go through them all,” said Tyler Prochnow, co-founder of Think Big Partners.  “PitchCastr will give investors insight into high quality investment opportunities from all over the world and allow them to focus only on those that are of interest to them.  We created PitchCastr to establish an efficient marketplace for investors and entrepreneurs to find one another.”

PitchCastr is operating as a free service during private beta.  Startups, entrepreneurs and investors are invited to sign up and try PitchCastr for free during the month of February 2013.  To learn more, visit www.pitchcastr.com.

Connect with PitchCastr at @PitchCastrTips. 

Think Big Celebrates GEW with KC Entrepreneurs at Startup Waffles

Is there anything better than bringing passionate, driven entrepreneurs together during Global Entrepreneurship Week?

Yes, yes there is.

It's even cooler to bring passionate, driven entrepreneurs together during Global Entrepreneurship Week and add feed them waffles!  And then, top off the day with an exclusive look at the brand new Windows 8 platform with Microsoft's startup evangelist Taylor Cowan.  We think it's safe to say that Think Big had a pretty awesome day on Friday--and a lot of great entrepreneurs joined us in the celebration.

As a part of Kansas City's Global Entrepreneurship Week, Think Big Partners hosted two events, Startup Waffles and Windows 8 Kansas City Bootcamp on Friday, November 16.  Many entrepreneurs came together not only to enjoy the sticky sweetness of waffles, but to network with other entrepreneurs, collect business cards and get educated on the Windows 8 platform.

A big thanks to all of the startups who made it out to Startup Waffles and the Windows 8 Bootcamp last week!  And an even bigger thanks to KCSourceLink for being the true KC leader during Global Entrepreneurship Week. 

Follow me! @AllisonThinkBig

Why I Love Windows 8

WRITTEN BY BLAKE MILLER, PARTNER AT THINK BIG PARTNERS

Think Big Partners recently partnered with Microsoft on a number of fronts.  It’s been incredibly exciting to get hands support from a company so dedicated to helping entrepreneurs, especially in the Accelerator space.  One of the biggest perks of all has been the opportunity to dive into the new Windows 8 platform before (almost) anyone else in the country.  With access to the Samsung Slate loaded with Windows 8 (which I now conveniently use as my laptop and can easily plug in to my desktop screen) as well as exposure to the Windows 8-loaded new Surface, I’ve gotten a glimpse at the new Microsoft products that are starting to rock the tech world. 

I am most excited about the new Windows App Store.  The creation of any new app store provides entrepreneurs and developers with even more opportunities.  The new app store, as of now, has a low amount of noise, which gives entrepreneurs the chance to create unique apps and get them in front of users quite easily.

In addition, the Windows Store “rules” (I guess I should call them “unwritten rules”) haven’t been written yet.  This new app store is intriguing in its ability to reset the way developers price their apps.  In my opinion, every app needs to have a price tag.  It’s important for entrepreneurs, developers and app builders to get out of the trap of free apps (plus, Windows lets you host a “trial” period for your app—allowing users to try it for free!).  I think that the Windows Store could potentially create a new revenue stream and a “new normal” for the pricing of apps.

And although I am excited about the new Windows Store, I am absolutely blown away by the Microsoft hardware that Think Big Partners has received.  Yes, the new Surface is killer—but I have been using the Samsung Slate for a few weeks now and cannot get over how quick and snappy everything feels.  Not to mention, the ability to run it on a duel screen.

Currently, I have a ton of applications open on my Slate.  And they’re not small either.  I’m running Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, Spotify, this Word Document, and of course, the Internet, all from one powerful, thin Slate.  And guess what?  It’s keeping up (and passing this developer’s speed expectations).

There’s no doubt about it—there are critics out there—people that don’t believe that Windows can keep up with iOS.   I’m as shocked as the next person that I converted from a laptop to using a just a slate for my primary computing needs.  But it works.  And the reviews speak for themselves (and while you’re at it, check out this other Microsoft article too).

I adapt pretty quickly when it comes to new technology—but I am aware that others don’t.  I’ll admit: Windows 8 is different.  It definitely has a learning curve that new users may struggle with.  Getting used to the Charms Bar, the corner-driven usability and the shortcuts did take me a few hours to get used to.
 
Think Big Partners is going to be hosting the Microsoft Windows 8 Kansas City Bootcamp—a one-day tech-focused bootcamp that will educate startups and developers on how to use Windows 8 (and it takes place during Global Entrepreneurship Week).  Attendees can actually play around on the Slates and Surfaces (yes, I’ll even let you use mine...I guess...) and learn the ins-and-outs of Windows 8 and the Windows Store.  Trust me, you’re going to need to know this stuff.

Interested in learning more about Windows 8?  Register today for the event or sound-off with any questions you have in the Comments Section below.

Follow me! @blakemiller32

Microsoft Azure Cloud vs. Amazon Web Services

While hosting Microsoft's Azure Cloud and Windows 8 App Kickstarts, we were asked a lot of questions.  But the most prevalent question of all seemed to be "What's the difference between Microsoft Azure Cloud and Amazon Web Services?"

We're glad you asked.  Because as a matter of fact, there are a lot of things that differentiate Microsoft's Azure and Amazon's cloud platform.  Which one is right for you?  Read below to find out:

Who Leads in the Cloud Space?
Amazon has been known as the cloud leader for quite some time now mainly because of its competitive price points.  But that hasn't stopped Azure from claiming some of the top accounts including Boeing, General Mills, Lockheed Martin, Travelocity and Xerox. At the same time, Amazon Web Services have been around longer and plans to expand its global datacenters and cloud portfolio.  When it comes to credibility, Amazon may be the most trusted, but Azure isn't far behind.

IaaS vs PaaS
Amazon is best known for its Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) when Azure provides a Platform as a Service (PaaS).  What's the difference?  In IaaS models, the vendor only provides the underlying infrastructure (to include network, storage, compute resources and virtualization technology).  PaaS models, on the other hand, provide both an underlying infrastructure as well as the application development platform to include automation to deploy, test and iterate applications (through operating systems, databases, middleware, up-to-date tools and services).   

Which Makes Building Easier?
Azure seems to be more user-friendly than AWS.  According to Craig Knighton of LiquidSpace, "it is easier for the average engineer to accomplish high availability on Azure because the tools push you down that path and make it pretty darn easy to build stateless applications."  .NET engineers will also benefit more by utilizing Azure cloud while Java and Python developers may excel using AWS.

Which Performs Faster?
It's a close one, but AWS might take the cake.  Experts believe that AWS and Azure are probably equal when it comes to pure performance, but AWS may out-perform Azure when it comes to specialized applications.

Which Saves Me the Most Time? 
Hands down Azure.  As a strong PaaS, Microsoft's Azure Cloud platform automatically configures, optimizes and updates the cloud environment for the developer, saving loads of time.

Which One is More Cutting Edge? 
AWS may be considered more "cutting edge" than Azure.  The platform gives developers the capability to deploy new technologies event before becoming part of the platform.  But in the case of a simple business application, either AWS or Azure will do the trick.

Which Has a Better Failover Strategy?
It's a tie.  There is no way to provide a 100% uptime of availability zone or data-center whether that be on Azure or AWS.  Keep in mind that disasters usually happen because of poor application not because of the fragility in the cloud.  AWS is still recovering for the 4-day outage it endured in April of 2011.

Which Is Better for Big Data?
Amazon does big data really well.  Whether it's extra-large memory instances, high-CPU instances or cluster compute instances, Amazon really can't be beat.

Which Has More at Stake?
Azure--but that may be a good thing.  Knighton notes that if Microsoft fails with its cloud platform, the company will die a long, slow death.  Amazon, on the other hand, can rely on book selling if AWS fails.  Therefore, with Microsoft facing more pressure with the platform, there's no doubt that its Azure cloud service will succeed.  Either way, one thing is for sure, neither Microsoft or Amazon are going away anytime soon.

Which One's Cheaper?
Both Azure and AWS allow you to utilize a free usage tier to test out the platforms.  From there, it's up to the user to determine how much they want to spend on their cloud platform service.  Therefore, price depends on what services you need to use.  I will say that in order to determine how much money you will spend, Azure has a super easy pricing calculator (vs. Amazon's pricing charts).

Let's face it.  You can't go wrong with either Azure Cloud or AWS.  Both provide great cloud platform options--it all depends on what you need it for most, what type of developer you are and what you're trying to accomplish.  We'll let you make the decision on your own.

Follow me! @AllisonThinkBig

Think Big & Microsoft Reveal Windows 8 & Azure Cloud to KC Developers

This week, Think Big Partners and Microsoft hosted a 3-day event to introduce Kansas City developers, founders and entrepreneurs to the world of Windows 8 and Azure Cloud.  The event, known as Azure Cloud & Windows 8 App Kickstarts, gave Midwest entrepreneurs a first-look some of Microsoft's newest products and services.  According to attendees, the takeaways from the event were extremely beneficial...especially for those who want to learn how to develop on the new Windows 8 platform (there were even Apple fans raving about the new Windows 8!).

Check out some of the pictures from our Microsoft event!

The event kicked off with a Monday night Happy Hour. 

On day 2, developers were welcomed into the world of Windows 8.

Midwestern developers & entrepreneurs learning the ins-and-outs of Windows 8.

Attendees were asked to bring laptops for an interactive experience.  

Microsoft <3s Startups (and vice versa).

Azure Cloud & Windows 8 App Kickstarts will conclude today with private office hours with Taylor Cowan, Microsoft's director of startups.  Attendees are invited to schedule a complimentary one-on-one question-and-answer session with Taylor to learn more about how Windows 8, Azure and BizSpark can maximize their businesses.  

Follow me! @AllisonThinkBig

Last Chance to Register for a Sneak Peek of Windows 8!

Awesome Kansas City developers, free booze, and a sneak peek at Windows 8.  What's not to love about our upcoming event, Azure Cloud & Windows 8 App Kickstarts?  

Think Big Partners has teamed up with Microsoft to create and host Azure Cloud and Windows 8 App Kickstarts to educate startups and developers how to effectively utilize and build on Microsoft Azure and Windows 8 platforms.  The free event (tickets are limited) will take place at Think Big Partners’ coworking space, bizperc, on October 15-17, 2012.  And trust us when we say that is a developer's dream event come true.  

Learn all about Windows 8 before any one else in the world!  Collaborate with other awesome Kansas City entrepreneurs, developers and founders!  Learn how effectively utilize Azure Cloud!  Drink some free booze at our pre-party on the 15th!  

What do ya say?  Care to join us?  Register for the FREE event here:  http://microsoftkickstart.eventbrite.com/.  See you Monday!

Follow me! @AllisonThinkBig

8 Reasons Why Windows 8 Will ROCK

We're sure you've heard a lot of buzz about Windows 8.  But is it really going to be that cool?

The short answer is yes. 

Want us to prove it?  Here are 8 reasons why Windows 8 will totally rock your world (plus, Kansas City, we're giving you the opportunity to build on Windows 8 before anyone else FOR FREE!).  

The Charm Bar.

1. Geek Out with the Charm Bar 

Looking for your home-base START button?  You won't find it on Windows 8!  Instead, you'll find something called the Charm Bar.  The Charm Bar is a universal toolbar in Windows 8 that can be accessed from anywhere no matter what you are doing or what application you are running. It is similar to accessing background applications in Apple's iOS devices. The Charm Bar is made up of 5 main elements: Search, Share, Start, Devices and Settings.

2.  Run Awesome Apps 

Running apps on Windows 8 is a different experience than running them on Windows 7.  For one, browsers will allow touch-based controls like pinching, zooming, copying, and pasting as well as sharing, searching and additional settings in the Charm Bar. 

Apps can be run side-by-side.  In other words, you can do more all at once.  Watch a video and your news feed at the same time.  IM your best friend and play a game almost simultaneously.  Browse the web and write an email.  Dock an app to one side of the screen and dock another app on the other.  

3.  Run Awesome Apps Faster 

One of Windows 8's most beneficial features is its increased performance.  Skeptics fear that the interface will actually bog Windows down due to more processes.  Don't fear--Microsoft has addressed that fear.  Windows 8 will have better performance than Windows 7, especially when it comes to boot times.  

4.  Dream within Your Desktop 

The Windows 8 desktop.

It may not seem like it, but the desktop is one of the most important features of Windows 8.  And it's also one of the most unique.  Although the traditional desktop (i.e. what you would see in Windows 7) will still be alive and well, there will be some changes.  For example, the taskbar will only show apps that you have pinned.  Windows 8 will also feature an updated Control Panel, Task Manager and Windows Explorer.

5.  Organize your Life with the Home Screen

The home screen on the new Windows 8 platform looks a lot like the home screen on a Windows Phone.  Displayed is a set of tiles, each of which represents an application (as well as information that correspond with the app.  For example, if you have 3 event notifications, the number 3 will pop up near your calendar tile).  Rearrange the icons as you see fit just as you would do on any phone or tablet. 

Windows Store.

6.  Shop 'til you Drop in the Windows Store

The Windows Store looks a lot like the home screen, as tiles correspond to different categories and apps.  The store contains touch-based apps for tablet interfaces as well as traditional desktop Windows apps that you may be more familiar with.  No matter what interface you're using, there will be just one portal to conduct your discoveries.  

Currently, the Windows Store is full of free apps from Microsoft and many other partners.  Once Windows 8 is open to the public, more apps will be available for purchase.  The biggest benefit of the Windows Store is the ability to try apps before you buy them!  After you give an app a test-run, Windows allows you to download the full version without losing your place in the app or a re-installation. 

7.  Back Up on the Cloud

We all know that the cloud is a pretty big deal.  That's why Microsoft has built a cloud platform to correspond with Windows 8.  In Windows 8, your Microsoft account will drive all of the syncing--from address books to photos, from your data to third-party apps.  Plus, you can access the cloud on any Windows 8 device--just log in!  

8.  Simplify Your Life!

Windows 8 is just plain nifty!  With other awesome features like system-wide spell-checking (this writer's dream!), system-wide search features, "refresh your PC" buttons and extremely streamlined (and gorgeous) aesthetics, it's no wonder users everywhere are anxiously awaiting Windows 8.  

Now that you know all of the reasons that Windows 8 rocks, how can you get it? 

The bad news is, you can't...yet.  Windows 8 will not be available to the public until October 26, 2012.  

The good news is that Kansas City developers, entrepreneurs and startup founders have the opportunity to build on Windows 8 before anybody else!  Think Big Partners and Microsoft will be hosting Azure Cloud and Windows 8 App Kickstarts, a 2-day event that will give Silicon Prairie developers a first-look at Windows 8 and Microsoft Azure.  The event is completely free of charge and will take place October 16-17, 2012 at 1800 Baltimore, Kansas City, MO.  To register for the free event, click here.  Act fast!  Space is limited and will fill up quickly!  

Follow me! @AllisonThinkBig

First Think Big Accelerator Class Accepted into Microsoft BizSpark Programs

With the announcement of its first accelerator on September 25, 2012, Think Big Partners and the Think Big Accelerator program have also been accepted into the BizSpark Plus Partner Program in addition to their role as a BizSpark Network Partner with Microsoft Corp.  

Think Big Accelerator is a 22-week program in the Midwest for tech-focused, early-stage startups interested in launching a business faster, smarter and stronger.  Think Big Accelerator focuses on technology-based businesses with consumer-facing services, software, web services, apps and supportive solutions. 

As a member of the BizSpark Plus program, Think Big Accelerator will now be able to grant its six inducted startups access to BizSpark Plus, which provides a higher level of Windows Azure cloud access, setting up each entrepreneur for success in the cloud.  Microsoft BizSpark will also provide the six startups in the Think Big Accelerator program with consulting, insight, mentorship and expertise.  With Windows Azure cloud and BizSpark available for Think Big Accelerator startups, the partnership will provide the entrepreneurs with the essential tools needed to build, store, and network when building a profitable startup. 

Headed by Think Big Partners co-founder, Herb Sih, the cooperation with Microsoft aims to foster the growth of Midwest entrepreneurship, create a strong portfolio of startup stories and companies, and to create more successful businesses and jobs in the central region of the United States. 

“We are excited to have Think Big Partners join our BizSpark Plus Partner Program,” said Mark Relph, Senior Director, Strategic and Emerging Business Team at Microsoft. “Think Big Accelerator startups have the potential to spur business growth in the Midwest. With Windows Azure, startups can save the cost of investing in IT infrastructure and only pay for technology resources as they use them.  We look forward providing member startups with access to technology, resources and business connections.”

"The partnership we have developed with Microsoft will not only benefit the startups involved with the Think Big Accelerator program, but will also help to strengthen the entire Kansas City startup community," said Herb Sih, co-founder of Think Big Partners. "We are excited to already provide Midwestern startups with the benefits of the Microsoft partnership, such as the Azure Cloud and Windows 8 App Kickstarts for developers.  This is a great partnership for our startups, the accelerator and Kansas City entrepreneurs." 

To learn more about Think Big Accelerator, please visit www.thinkbigpartners.com/accelerator.  

Be One of the First to Develop on Windows 8 and Microsoft Azure Cloud

Think Big Partners has teamed up with Microsoft to create and host Azure Cloud and Windows 8 App Kickstarts to educate startups and developers how to effectively utilize and build on Microsoft Azure and Windows 8 platforms.  The free event (tickets are limited) will take place at Think Big Partners’ coworking space, bizperc, on October 15-17, 2012.  And trust us when we say that is a developer's dream event come true.  

These App Kickstarts will be a key opportunity for developers, hackers, coders, entrepreneurs and startups to learn how to build apps on Windows 8 and deploy to the Microsoft Azure Cloud platform before the Windows 8 becomes generally available to the public on October 26, 2012.  With over 90% of the market share, the Windows operating system has remained one of the top platforms for development to date.  This limited event will provide attendees with a head start on building new, innovative applications on one of the most powerful operating systems and cloud platforms in the world, Windows 8 and Microsoft Azure.   

On October 16, 2012, the first official day App Kickstarts, participants are invited to learn how to build, deploy and manage applications across the Microsoft Azure platform.  Attendees will be educated on how emerging businesses can best leverage Azure through CMS systems, how to create and scale customer websites in PHP and Node.js, how to deploy code updates using GIT, how to run Azure Windows and Linux VM’s, how to store data in Azure, and how to use Azure’s many platform services including Queues, Service Bus, and Authentication.  Microsoft engineers will also be on hand to provide consulting, insight, and mentoring for participants.  Attendees must bring a laptop and sign up for Azure prior to the event.  Developers may sign up for the Azure 90 day free trial.  Startups and entrepreneurs who qualify for BizSpark should sign up for BizSpark and activate an Azure account prior to the event. 

Startups and entrepreneurs are also invited to learn about the Microsoft BizSpark Program and how to use its 2,000 partners in order to connect with incubators, investors, advisors, government agencies and hosters.  

On the second day of App Kickstarts, participants will be invited to learn how to build Windows 8 Metro style apps using HTML5, CSS3 and JavaScript.  Attendees will be educated on Windows 8 navigation, user experience patterns, inherent async design and integration.  The day will be focused around building new applications on the Windows 8 platform.  Microsoft engineers will also be present at the event to provide insight, mentorship and expertise in order to help participants.  Attendees must bring a laptop and install the RTM version of Windows 8 prior to the event. 

Before the official event on October 16, attendees and the Kansas City tech community are invited to attend a cocktail hour on Monday, October 15, 2012 from 6:00-9:00pm.  At the cocktail hour, attendees will have access to technical evangelists and representatives from Microsoft who will answer Windows 8, Azure and BizSpark questions.  Event attendees are also encouraged to bring a laptop if assistance is needed loading the Azure or Windows 8 trial platforms.     

On October 18, 2012, attendees are also invited to participate in a one-on-one question-and-answer session with Taylor Cowan, Microsoft’s startup evangelist.  Taylor will be available to answer questions about Windows 8, Microsoft Azure, Microsoft BizSpark and how to engineer a product over the multiple Microsoft platforms. 

“Given Microsoft’s rich history and technological power, this event will truly give developers and hackers a leg up in the industry,” said Blake Miller, local Kansas City developer at Think Big Partners.  “In the startup world, things move pretty fast.  Having the opportunity to be one of the first to develop on Windows 8 and Azure while being able to ask questions and receive answers directly from the source will not only put the startups we work with on the map, but all of Kansas City on the fast track to success."

This free event offers the Midwest an opportunity to "get in front of" the technology curve, or at least keep pace with parts of the country like Silicon Valley, NY, Boston and Austin. According to Gartner & Morgan Stanley research, smart phone technology adoption moves very fast. "A few years ago, there was no real "smart phone" market - it was an iPhone market. Apple owned the space. Android changed all that. Today, there are legitimately 2 platforms for developers to roll out apps that get used by the world's consumers," said Herb Sih, Managing Partner of Think Big Partners. "We believe Microsoft will create the 3rd platform that will disrupt the app marketplace. There is room for another player, and I would not bet against them given their focus, talent and market presence in the world of today's consumer. Smart developers ultimately figure out that it matters what their customers think, what they do and where they go. That is what drives app revenue."

The Microsoft Azure Cloud and Windows 8 App Kickstarts will take place October 15-17, 2012 at bizperc, located at 1800 Baltimore in Kansas City, Missouri.  This event is free to register.  Space is limited and we expect to have high demand.  Entrepreneurs, startups, developers, and hackers are invited to register for the free limited event at www.microsoftkickstart.eventbrite.com.  

Think Big and Microsoft BizSpark Offer Startups $60,000 in Cloud Services on Windows Azure

WRITTEN BY ALLISON WAY, SENIOR COPYWRITER & CHIEF EDITOR

Think Big Partners, a technology-focused startup accelerator and mentorship-based collaborative coworking space for entrepreneurs, and Microsoft BizSpark Plus have collaborated to offer startups $60,000 in cloud services on the new Windows Azure program.

BizSpark Plus is an extension of the Microsoft BizSpark program, designed to accelerate the success of startups around the world. The program works through select incubators and accelerators such as Think Big Partners to provide value-added products and services to high-potential startups. The BizSpark Plus package will provide startups up to $60,000 of compute and storage per startup for up to two years.

Microsoft BizSpark has selected Think Big Partners among 40 other incubators and accelerators to become a part of its BizSpark Plus Partners global network and will provide exceptional Microsoft offers to the high-growth startups undergoing the Think Big accelerator process. The 40 accelerators and incubators involved in this program have been chosen by Microsoft based on their ability to attract and work with world-class startups. Over time, Microsoft plans to extend additional offers to startups through the BizSpark Plus Partners.

"We are excited about this opportunity," said Herb Sih, Co-Founder of Think Big Partners. "Microsoft BizSpark is a valuable and proven technology solution for entrepreneurs and startups when they need it most. In addition, BizSpark Plus has given Think Big Partners the opportunity to be faster and smarter when it comes to building profitable companies."

Think Big Partners has worked with high-growth tech startups from across the nation that use cloud computing services. According to TechStars, cloud applications are driving the new startup ecosystem and provide startups the ability to drive user adoption, scale their businesses and generate financial returns faster than ever before. Windows Azure will offer a simple and powerful platform for the creation of Web applications and services.

By providing Windows Azure, Microsoft and Think Big Partners hope to help startups grow their businesses by offsetting cloud computing costs so that they can focus their efforts on other business challenges including research, development, investment and promotion. For more information about the BizSpark Plus program, please visit http://www.microsoft.com/bizspark/plus.

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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.


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The Gigabit Challenge Announces Semi-Finalists

WRITTEN BY ALLISON WAY, SENIOR COPYWRITER & CHIEF EDITOR

The Gigabit Challenge announced the Semi-Finalists who will continue on in pursuit of the $100,000 Grand Prize, the $250,000 “Born Global”Prize and the opportunity to create disruptive innovation on the Google Fiber Network.  These Semi-Finalists were selected by a panel of judges including entrepreneurs, angel investors, venture capitalists, public and private sector organizations, community leaders and other experts.  Executive summaries were judged based on market opportunity, growth potential, impact, brevity, clarity and how effectively the ideas utilized the Google Fiber Network.  The Semi-Finalist companies cover a wide range of applications including telemedicine, ecommerce, nonprofit fundraising, video delivery, digital city management and much more.

“The Gigabit Challenge is a great example of a community working together to capitalize on a fantastic opportunity for the region to connect with entrepreneurs, inventors and investors from around the globe to catalyze ideas that can change the world,” said Chris Bernard, Entrepreneurship, Innovation & Design Startup Director and Advisor for Microsoft, and a judge for The Gigabit Challenge.  “We congratulate all of those who entered the competition and we’re looking forward to the final round of judging.  We are proud to offer programs like MicrosoftBizSpark to the Semi-Finalists, which will help those startups and entrepreneurs focus on a great idea and get to market quickly.”

The Gigabit Challenge Semi-Finalists:

Abhi Ray, Heart To Heart Network Inc.

Adam Geller, Edthena

Andrea Tappy, ClassTap

Andrew Ying, Hong

Annie Hwang, Cloud Integration LLP
Bob Wray, CourthouseUSA LLC

Brendon Collier, SocialCloud

Brett Simpson, record life

Cecilia Bakker, Cecilia Bakker & Tim Brown

Corinna West, Wellness Wordworks

Dallas Kranker, Everything Computers LLC

David Windhausen, TiBi.tv

Don Peterson, BigIris.com

Eddie Tapper, GET-GIV-GOT System Technologies
Edgar Sarmiento, HuMuch?

Ellen Ervin, Connected-4-Learning

Ernie Johnston, iNet2

Fortunato Cardenas, Green Earth Aerogel Technologies

Jason Arnold, Paruzia Technologies

Jeff Stull, Risk Analytics LLC

Jeremy Kissell, Jeremy Kissell

Jim West, Somametric

Kristin Kenney, RE:Cite

Marc Canter, Digital City Mechanics

Mark Hellevang, Capital Infinity Research LLC

Mary Poehler, In Touch Beacon

Merlin Owens, East West TeleMedia International

Michael McKinzy Sr., Voter Integrity Party (V.I.P.)

Michael Shear, Strategic Office Networks LLC

S. Vaideeswaran, Damascus Fortune

Sally Smith, Esipro Technologies LLC

Samuel Belu-John, SEIN Analytics & Asset Management

Scott Hardiek, Virtual/Real World Wallet System

Seak Meng Lay, Photaic

Sonia Lin, Kauzu

Su Sanni, WeDidIt

Tim Sylvester, Integrated Roadways

Troy Norris, TalentHelix

Willow Lundgren, PlanetReuse LLC

Semi-finalists have until December 9, 2011 to submit eight to ten page business plans and Powerpoint presentations which will be reviewed by the judging panel.  Finalists will be announced on December 16, 2011.  At The Gigabit Challenge Finale on January 18, 2012, the winners will be awarded a Grand Prize valued at $100,000 and a “Born Global” Prize of a $250,000 investment from Gramercy Private Equity.

“It has been a pleasure reviewing submissions for The Gigabit Challenge,” said Greg Kratofil, Shareholder at Polsinelli Shughart and judge for The Gigabit Challenge.  “It feels like I’m looking through time and getting a glimpse at what the future will hold.  I have been extremely impressed with the quality of the ideas and have little doubt about the opportunities enabled by gigabit speed.”

For more information about The Gigabit Challenge or to express interest in becoming a partner, please visit http://www.gigabitchallenge.com or contact Ann DeAngelo at (816) 842-5244.   

About The Gigabit Challenge:

The Gigabit Challenge is a global business plan competition to find disruptive ideas that will turn the tech industry upside-down and change the world.  The Gigabit Challenge is focused on unique applications that are enabled by Google’s first-in-the-nation 1 Gigabit Fiber network.  It is a business plan competition looking for the brightest, hungriest and most passionate entrepreneur superstars who are looking to think big...with a gig.  In early October 2011, individuals, teams and early-stage businesses were invited to enter for the chance to win the Grand Prize valued at $100,000 and be the first to work on the Google Fiber Network.  For more information, please visit http://www.gigabitchallenge.com.

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The Gigabit Challenge Announces Initial Advisory Board Members and Judges

The Gigabit Challenge, a global business plan competition looking for entrepreneurial ideas to disrupt on the Google Fiber network, has announced the initial members of its Advisory Board and Judging Panel. The Advisory Board members will provide their extensive knowledge, expertise, and seasoned experience advising The Gigabit Challenge on how to run the best business plan competition possible. 

The initial Advisory Board members for The Gigabit Challenge are: 

• Erik Brynjolfsson, Professor of Management, MIT & Director, MIT Center for Digital Business
• Vint Cerf, Vice President and Chief Internet Evangelist, Google
• Robert Gunderson, Co-Founder and Managing Partner, Gunderson Dettmer
• Harry Kellogg, Vice Chairman, Silicon Valley Bank 
• Philip Korn, Relationship Manager and Managing Director, First Republic Bank 
• Dan'l Lewin, Corporate Vice President of Strategic and Emerging Business Development, Microsoft
• Robert Marcusse, President & Chief Executive Officer, Kansas City Area Development Council
• Keith Molzer, President & Chief Executive Officer, Balance Innovations 
• Rex Northern, Executive Director, Cleantech Open
• Mark Radcliffe, Partner, DLA Piper 
• Mario Rosati, Managing Partner, Wilson Sonsini Goodrich and Rosati
• Angela Tower, Director, PricewaterhouseCoopers

For more information on the Advisory Board members, please visit http://www.gigabitchallenge.com/about/advisory-board.

Through a graduated process, the judges will evaluate the executive summaries, business plans and investor presentations submitted by contestants and will select the winner of The Gigabit Challenge Grand Prize valued at $100,000. The judges will use a software-as-a-service (SaaS) application called iStart to review, evaluate and vote on the materials submitted by the contestants. The iStart application is provided by the Kauffman Foundation, a Gigabit Challenge partner.

The initial Judging Panel members for The Gigabit Challenge are:

• Jennifer Bailey, Partner, Hovey Williams LLP
• Jeff Barco, Chief Executive Officer and Founding Partner, Barco Partners LLC
• Richard Brenner, President & Chief Executive Officer, The Brenner Group 
• Erik Brynjolfsson, Professor of Management, MIT & Director, MIT Center for Digital Business
• Michael Burke, Vice President, King Hershey PC & Co-Chairman of the Bi-State Innovation Committee 
• Steve Fennel, Director of Communications Outreach, KU Medical Center 
• Victor Friedberg, Executive Director, Launch.org
• Michael Gale, Chief Executive Officer, Gramercy Private Equity
• Stuart Gannes, CEO, XVD Technology Holdings & Director of Partnership Projects, O'Reilly Media
• Michael Gelphman, Founder, Kansas City Information Technology Professionals 
• Jonathan Gleason, Director of Business Development, Gunderson Dettmer
• Matt Heinrich, Vice President for Facilities and Technology, Rockhurst University
• David Isenberg, Founder, isen.com LLC
• Philip Korn, Relationship Manager and Managing Director, First Republic Bank
• Greg Kratofil, Shareholder, Polsinelli Shughart
• Thad Langford, Executive in Residence, Openair Equity Partners & President/Chief Executive, Zave Networks (acquired by Google)
• Casey McGlynn, Partner, Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati
• Eric Melin, Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Philanthropist.org 
• Bryan Richard, Founder, iCode
• David Silverman, Partner, Crosslink Capital
• Adeline Tang, Director of Business Development, SingTel Idea Factory 
• Angela Tower, Director, PricewaterhouseCoopers
• Bud Vick, Owner, Cochran Head Vick & Company
• Radd Way, Executive Vice President, Weitz Construction Company & Advisory Board Member, FiberKC
• Jase Wilson, Principal, Luminopolis & Member, Bi-State Innovation Committee

For more information on the Judging Panel members, please visit http://www.gigabitchallenge.com/about/judges. 

"We are extremely honored to have such accomplished people involved as advisors and judges for The Gigabit Challenge," said Tyler Prochnow, co-founder of Think Big Partners, host of The Gigabit Challenge. "The participation of these high-quality professionals will assure that The Gigabit Challenge will be a great success. We look forward to adding more people to these groups over the coming weeks."

The Gigabit Challenge is actively seeking additional partners. If you are interested in discussing this opportunity, or have questions regarding entering the competition, please visit www.gigabitchallenge.com or contact Think Big Partners at 816-842.5244.

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