Mark Birch’s Post

🌟 We need YOUR input! Help us create the ultimate list of tech and startup events! Drop your recommendations below for upcoming in-person events, conferences, and workshops in the community. Let's curate a calendar packed with game-changing opportunities to network, learn, and grow! 💡 #TechEvents #StartupLife #LetsCollaborate #TechConferances #Orlando #OrlandoEvents

Startup founders: what types of events are most helpful at an early stage, if at all? I personally am not involved with many startup-related communities, but even I get email invitations to what seems like at least one event a day here in NYC. (I cannot imagine what other founders’ calendars and Luma feeds look like!) In the early days of my startup journey, I went to as many networking / panel / mixer events as I could, thinking that there could be even the slightest bit of value from all these different events. However, I soon realized I was losing so much time simply attending all these events, initiating conversations at these gatherings, and then following up on them the next day (almost all of the conversations stop there). Nowadays, I actively try not to attend panels or networking events unless there is something very specific in value I can directly gain from one. At times, that does get me worrying about value lost from lack of serendipity. However, I feel I just don’t have enough hours in the day to get everything I need to do done and follow up on all those new conversations. Founders: how do you do it? What should I look for in events that may perhaps increase the possibility of serendipitous value? What events are valuable vs. waste of time?

Networking is essential for startup success. While social media offers broad reach, in-person connections create deeper relationships and unlock unique opportunities. Engaging with industry peers, potential partners, and mentors face-to-face helps build trust and foster collaborations that drive growth. Networking events, conferences, and local meetups are excellent platforms to share your vision, learn from others, and form meaningful connections that can propel your startup forward. #networking #thrivingthursday #startupsinsights #abillionupstartups

One of my big goals for H2 2024 has been to do more in-person networking. I find myself intrigued by people's aims when networking at startup events... Full disclosure - Verticode works directly with founders as well as partnering with accelerator programmes and investors, so the reasons for me wanting to attend these events is quite clear: I'm getting the Verticode name out there and hanging out in the space that our clients/partners do. The fact that I'm generally building name recognition means it's not a waste of time for me to walk away from these events having met some great people and engaged in some interesting conversations but without really stumbling across anything commercially useful. I often think though, for so many early stage founders who attend event after event - they must usually walk away without any real value to their business. Don't get me wrong, there is always a benefit of sorts in building your network and, yes, if you're a founder the chances are you'll have an enjoyable time speaking with other founders but also... aren't there potentially better places to be talking about your innovative AI-driven AdTech startup? Or even more beneficial places to spend your evening (like building up brownie points with your partner... you're going to need them!) Or am I just being a bit defeatist?

When I returned to #Winnipeg, I was looking for ways to meet new people and get involved in the tech scene. That's how I met Robert at a local event, and he introduced me to Tech Thursday. I loved it so much that I decided to organise our own event while I’m in town and before I head back home to Sweden. On Thursday, March 28th at the Launch Coworking Space Exchange location, we're kicking off at 16:30. This isn’t just another networking event; it’s a chance to connect in a whole new way. Our Panelists (But Think Different): Joanne Zuk - from just outside Winnipeg, Joanne has been using her skills in strategy, consulting, and negotiation to connect people for years. She's all about creating meaningful connections. Robert de Guzman - Rob’s move from Manila to Winnipeg showed him the power of a strong network. Working in HVAC, he’s excited to share how networking has fuelled his growth. Michelle Boivin - With her background in communication and events, Michelle is an expert at engaging audiences. She’s focused on rebuilding her network and ready to share valuable tips. Me: Originally from Winnipeg, I’m here to change the way we think about networking. It’s all about meaningful interactions, and I’ve got some ideas to share. Not Just Another Panel: This event will be more like a Clubhouse session – an engaging, open conversation where everyone’s invited to participate. It’s laid back, it’s interactive, and it’s where real connections happen. Why You Should Join: ITS FREE with Pizza and Beer! Thanks Neo Financial and Paul Card and Philippe Burns for coordinating! Be Part of the Conversation: This is your chance to engage directly with this crew and the community. Share your thoughts, ask questions, and get insights in real-time. Networking Made Natural: Forget stiff, formal networking. This style makes meeting people easy, fun, and genuine. Learn and Grow: Whether you’re looking to expand your network, find new opportunities, or just want to meet like-minded people, there’s something here for you. Secure Your Spot: Ready for an evening of insightful conversation and genuine connections? Grab your free ticket now: https://lnkd.in/dXdzpDbV Let’s make networking fun and meaningful together. Can’t wait to see you there!

🌐 The Power of Community in Scaling Your Start-Up 🌐 Hello #StartUpCommunity! As we strive to grow our start-ups, we must not underestimate the power of a strong community. Here’s how you can harness it for your benefit: 💡 **Engage with Your Audience**: Build meaningful relationships with your customers and listen to their feedback. 💡 **Collaborate with Peers**: Partner with other start-ups and entrepreneurs to share resources and knowledge. 💡 **Participate in Local Events**: Attend and contribute to local tech meetups, workshops, and networking events. Our start-up ecosystem is vibrant and full of opportunities. Let’s leverage it together for greater success! What community initiatives have helped you scale? Share your experiences below. #CommunityPower #StartUpSuccess #EntrepreneurLife #Networking #LocalTech

Working with the perfect collaborators can transform your business in remarkable ways. But how do you find them? Here are some avenues to explore: 👉 Networking Events: Engage in industry-specific gatherings like conferences, trade shows, and networking events to encounter partners who resonate with your vision. 👉 Online Platforms: Delve into virtual communities such as LinkedIn, Reddit, or specialized forums where professionals convene to exchange ideas and foster collaboration. 👉 Incubators and Accelerators: Enroll in startup programs, incubators, or accelerators offering mentorship, resources, and networking chances to connect with potential partners and investors. 👉 Local Meetups: Participate in local gatherings, workshops, or entrepreneurial events in your vicinity to meet kindred spirits and potential collaborators. Remember, building strong partnerships relies on trust, respect, and clear communication. Don't hesitate to initiate dialogue—remarkable opportunities often stem from simple conversations! #partnerships #collaboration #businessdevelopment #wiljacques #emanus

📣 StartupWA invites you to attend the second WA Pulse event. The primary goal of this event is to enhance transparency and increase efficiency in the startup and innovation ecosystem in Western Australia. Get Tickets: https://lnkd.in/dDXFiQ5h What is WA Pulse? The WA Pulse event highlights the various initiatives delivered by different contributors in our ever-growing startup and innovation ecosystem. WA Pulse events will occur biannually, bringing together various stakeholders, including government officials, service providers, educators, advisors, investors and more. By facilitating these gatherings, we anticipate a more informed, engaged and cooperative startup ecosystem. What to Expect? At WA Pulse, we offer a platform for 20 selected speakers to share updates on the latest developments within the ecosystem. The speakers will do this through a concise 3-minute presentation. Expect to hear about new initiatives and programs, as well as updates on ongoing ones. Choose from two ticket options: 1. In-Person Ticket - $55, 2. Online Live Stream Ticket - $15. Beyond just listening, we encourage attendees to participate actively. During networking sessions, you'll be able to give feedback and suggest innovative approaches to the individuals responsible for creating these programs. If you are attending in person, you can enjoy food and drinks during the networking session. We look forward to your active participation in shaping the future of the startup and innovation ecosystem in Western Australia. #startupecosystem #innovation #networkingevent

● FOUNDER TIPS TOWNHALL ● With Townhall just around the corner, it’s time to drop some ‘Founder Tips’ to help you crush your networking game! This time, we’ve got some golden advice from Nicolai Danmark Johannesen, who's co-founder and board member of Reshopper, an Aarhus-based scale-up that has built a secondhand marketplace for families ⇪ Here is what Nicolai has to say about nailing networking at the event ↓ ► Build connections Networking can be a game changer for your startup. Use events to meet new people, share ideas, and get some fresh inspiration. Strong connections now can open doors later! ► Prep and reach out early Do some homework on who’s attending and who you want to meet. Shoot a quick message to key people before the event so you can skip the lines and get their full attention. ► Connect on LinkedIn right away After each chat connect on LinkedIn - it makes follow-up easier. Waiting too long means you might forget who’s who. So keep your phone charged and ready to go! If you haven't locked down your ticket for Townhall on October 10, make sure to do it now and get a chance to try out the tips in action!! ↳ https://lnkd.in/e3Jf4Tpi

🔥 Our next event is under a month away - hot topic where we discuss AI and the FoW - one not to miss out on ... #futureofwork #ai #nobacapital #investing #networking