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What to expect

TEAM FORMATION

Techstars mentors and expert facilitators set the stage, as participants meet fellow innovators, pitch ideas, and build teams.

CUSTOMER VALIDATION
MENTORING
BUILDING

Participants learn, 

practice, and apply cutting-edge methodologies and presentation skills.

BUSINESS MODELING
PITCH PRACTICE
DEMO DAY

Participants practice their pitches  and show their final work to a panel of judges from your business and the Techstars Network.

Elevate Your Potential at Techstars Startup Weekend AI & Life Sciences -
Winston-Salem - Feb. 28 - March 2, 2025. 

 

 

Connect with top-notch mentors, co-founders, and invaluable ecosystem resources

 Learn how to supercharge your progress and get more done, faster

Uncover the secrets to launching a successful business

 Giveaways for pitch winners 

Great value - Ticket price includes 7 meals, snacks, drinks and a Free T-shirt  

 

 Whether you're a student with big dreams or a seasoned entrepreneur, this is THE event for anyone, with any idea, eager to kickstart a new business or gain insights into the startup process.

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 Embark on a 3-Day Adventure to THINK, WORK, and BUILD like a startup!

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Techstars Startup Weekend is not just an event; it's your immersive dive into the exhilarating world of startups. 

 

Ready to turn your startup dreams into reality? Join us for an experience that could transform your journey!

 

Regardless of race, place, ethnicity, age, gender, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability,
economic status and other diverse backgrounds.

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SPARQ-STEEL-VERTICAL

Sparq connects innovators and entrepreneurs to the unique resources of the Innovation Quarter.

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In addition to accessing iQ resources and anchor institutions, including Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Sparq offers office hours with attorneys, accountants, and marketing professionals.

How it Works 

You don't need any experience in tech or the startup ecosystem. 

Just come with a collaborative spirit, be prepared to have fun, and soak in all the knowledge about how to create your very own startup business.

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On the first evening, our event facilitators will break the ice as you break bread and get to know your fellow attendees. Anyone who would like to pitch a startup idea is given 60 seconds to give it a go. Afterward, participants who wish to get the full startup experience will vote on their favorite ideas and join their teams.

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Over the course of the weekend, participants will continue to meet up with their team as they attend workshops/mentor sessions on building a business plan, customer validation, marketing, and mastering their pitch. Participants will also work closely with experienced mentors, who will provide guidance and support as they develop their ideas.

At the end of the weekend, the teams will present a 3-5 minute pitch deck to the audience and an expert panel of judges for their chance to win valuable prizes.


No Ideas? No Worries. Join a Team and work with them or just come watch the magic!

HOW TO PREPARE

1st - Watch this video


2nd - Think about a 60 pitch needs to be around a new idea, not an already existing business 

 

3rd - Doing some market research will give you a better understanding of the problem you are trying to solve. Practice your pitch. You'll have 60 seconds on Friday to persuade other participants to join your team. Make it clear, concise, and convincing!

 

The elements of a good 60-second pitch are to:

  • State who you are and what your background is

  • Mention what problem your product is solving

  • Explain the product and how it solves the problem

  • What skill sets do you need on the team, like a developer, marketer, or designer

  • Provide a name for your startup

  • Get familiar with some of the tools that you can use during the weekend, like the Lean Canvas.

 

What should I bring for the weekend?

 

  • Laptop/Portable Computer is helpful but NOT mandatory

  • Power cord for Laptop

  • Notepad and pen

  • Your phone - we encourage you to take pictures and videos of the event 

  • Optional: A second monitor, keyboard, etc…. Whatever helps you to be most productive.

  • Seize the opportunities offered during the event and bring business cards (or a business card app)

  • Lots of energy!

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