As I have been attending a number of networking events in the NY area for a number of years and they all seem to be somewhat of the same. One big event with a lot of networking, with little follow through and results. Now I am somewhat familiar with networking events and I used to run networking events back in th stone age of Web 1.0 called the J2J Network. As great as these networking events are it seems that there is still a disconnect on how much one can gain from them. That is why I have decided to start a more intimate method of networking in the NY area. This is not a new method as roundtables exist in NY, CA, and many other places and I am not ashamed to say I am copying similar models.
The purpose of networking events is to meet people who can ideally help you or your company. To that point i know how difficult it is to start a company and network effectively. From the initial idea, to fleshing it out, to discussing it with friends, writing a business plan, developing product, capital raising, customer acquisition, public relations, and so much more. As you can see the list is extensive and I have found that networking and speaking with other entrepreneurs, VCs, angels, and industry leaders has been a tremendous benefit to me.
That is why I am creating the FoundersRoundtable which will meet once or twice a month, and brings together entrepreneurs to have breakfast and network with experienced peers, investors and others. The mission is to bring together startups from various sectors and have a sit down with VCs, angels, PR companies, marketing experts, and other leading high tech firms that can help a startup’s trajectory to success.
To that end the Founders Rountable fosters the following concepts:
Exchange: Open discussion with active participation from all attendees.
Intimacy: Select companies and individuals invites, approachable, accessible, and intense networking.
Content: Strong focus on fresh, current, and trending topics in high tech.
Experience: Helping companies succeed by using members experiences, networks, and knowledge.
