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Introvert
I was an only child for almost 10 years. During that time, I learned how to be content with solitude. It just may be how I’m wired. My family will tell you that I was a very easy child. Well mannered and quiet, yeah that’s me. Even as an adult, I am still that quiet child. I have no desire to communicate with strangers and consider myself an introvert.
So why am I talking about this???? I…
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The Hatch Five
We are thrilled to announce the Hatch Five! This summer five startups will receive office space, professional mentoring and working capital to develop their businesses. Hatch is fostering startups through anintense accelerator program. These five companies will complement the foundation of a growing technology and startup cluster in the Greater Norfolk area.
The five startups are aligned with the area’s focus on technology, ranging from a web based product that allows musicians to collaborate and record music in real time; a wireless camera mounted on tugboats, tankers and other large vessels; an iPad application for public speakers; a web based application for finding affordable medical services; and a mobile GPS game. The companies were vetted through a rigorous selection process that included an online application, interviews and screenings.
Care Direct, is a web-based platform that will revolutionize how consumers find and manage health care services by allowing health care consumers or their caregivers create profiles with information necessary to confirm their eligibility for services. This information is verified by documentation that consumers upload (or snail mail) to the platform. Similarly service providers create profiles on CareDirect with descriptions of their services, real time information on service availability, and specific eligibility criteria. Unlike the many websites currently available that contain long outdated lists of unfamiliar services, consumers can trust that the information on CareDirect is always up to date. That’s because CareDirect shifts the burden of accuracy to the party with the greatest incentive to maintain it – the care providers. So when consumers search for services, only those services that are available and for which they meet eligibility criteria are returned.
Podium Pro, is an iPad app for public speakers, teachers, preachers and students. Podium Pro combines all the best features that speakers can only get by juggling multiple other programs, devices and aids. We will deliver a simple and affordable solution in the form of an iPad application.
Tug Cam, is a collision avoidance platform for tugs and barges. Designed to eliminate “blind spots” on barges. Tug Cam is purpose build for the harshest environments, contains one or more wireless transmitters, rechargeable battery and night vision/ultra low-lux camera(s). Optional add-on features include sensors, alarms, additional cameras and more. The TugCam can generate an ROI within 12 to 18 months with reductions in insurance premiums while improving navigation and preventing losses to property or life.
VinylMint, allows multimedia professionals to create and share projects with each other anywhere in the world. Vinylmint’s core technology enables users to store, transfer, and manage high-gigabyte project files and any external digital assets. Vinylmint’s technology has an open application programming interface to empower users to use the content production tools their familiar with, build productive internal communities around projects and existing tools, and use a rich media library to form transactional communities between contractors and customers.
Zombie Tag, enables real-time geo-location tracking in an active mobile GPS game. Combine the growing genre of the Zombie Apocalypse and your phone to score, rank and create your own events and challenges based on the real world. From college campuses and running trails to your favorite locations around town. With realtime data shown on the dashboard as well as on all the players mobile devices. Whether on the battlefield or the playground with our geo-engine see who, what and where. Zombie Tag is the first product, with the focus on the geo-engine, this is what drives military, police, fire and rescue interest, as well as additional products.
In addition to developing their startups, Hatch will provide each startup with:
• Three months of premium downtown office space in a Norfolk office building with a view of the new Plot park.
• Essential business support, including legal, accounting and marketing services.
• Support from mentors from successful businesses owners.
Through a partnership between We Are Titans and the City of Norfolk, Hatch is committed to growing and building Norfolk’s technology and entrepreneurial community, having held several events where hundreds of companies have showcased their ideas, set-up mentoring programs, and worked with virtually every major technology-related community organization in Norfolk. Hatch’s founders are committed, passionate members of the Norfolk tech community and are entrepreneurs with decades of experience in technology, media and early-stage venture capital. Hatch’s team has successfully founded, built, run, sold and financed businesses.
Hatch is also made possible from its local business community. Several companies xTuple, Kauffman and Canoles, General Ideas and Dominion Enterprises to name a few, contributed capital to help the Hatch Five.
For more information about Hatch, contact Zack Miller or @zackmiller84
#startnorfolk
Live Look In
The Hatch Five
We Are Titans is thrilled to announce the Hatch Five! This summer five startups will receive office space, professional mentoring and working capital to develop their businesses. Hatch is fostering startups through anintense accelerator program. These five companies will complement the foundation of a growing technology and startup cluster in the Greater Norfolk area.
The five startups are aligned with the area's focus on technology, ranging from a web based product that allows musicians to collaborate and record music in real time; a wireless camera mounted on tugboats, tankers and other large vessels; an iPad application for public speakers; a web based application for finding affordable medical services; and a mobile GPS game. The companies were vetted through a rigorous selection process that included an online application, interviews and screenings.
Care Direct, is a web-based platform that will revolutionize how consumers find and manage health care services by allowing health care consumers or their caregivers create profiles with information necessary to confirm their eligibility for services. This information is verified by documentation that consumers upload (or snail mail) to the platform. Similarly service providers create profiles on CareDirect with descriptions of their services, real time information on service availability, and specific eligibility criteria. Unlike the many websites currently available that contain long outdated lists of unfamiliar services, consumers can trust that the information on CareDirect is always up to date. That’s because CareDirect shifts the burden of accuracy to the party with the greatest incentive to maintain it – the care providers. So when consumers search for services, only those services that are available and for which they meet eligibility criteria are returned.
Podium Pro, is an iPad app for public speakers, teachers, preachers and students. Podium Pro combines all the best features that speakers can only get by juggling multiple other programs, devices and aids. We will deliver a simple and affordable solution in the form of an iPad application.
Tug Cam, is a collision avoidance platform for tugs and barges. Designed to eliminate "blind spots" on barges. Tug Cam is purpose build for the harshest environments, contains one or more wireless transmitters, rechargeable battery and night vision/ultra low-lux camera(s). Optional add-on features include sensors, alarms, additional cameras and more. The TugCam can generate an ROI within 12 to 18 months with reductions in insurance premiums while improving navigation and preventing losses to property or life.
VinylMint, allows multimedia professionals to create and share projects with each other anywhere in the world. Vinylmint's core technology enables users to store, transfer, and manage high-gigabyte project files and any external digital assets. Vinylmint’s technology has an open application programming interface to empower users to use the content production tools their familiar with, build productive internal communities around projects and existing tools, and use a rich media library to form transactional communities between contractors and customers.
Zombie Tag, enables real-time geo-location tracking in an active mobile GPS game. Combine the growing genre of the Zombie Apocalypse and your phone to score, rank and create your own events and challenges based on the real world. From college campuses and running trails to your favorite locations around town. With realtime data shown on the dashboard as well as on all the players mobile devices. Whether on the battlefield or the playground with our geo-engine see who, what and where. Zombie Tag is the first product, with the focus on the geo-engine, this is what drives military, police, fire and rescue interest, as well as additional products.
In addition to developing their startups, Hatch will provide each startup with:
• Three months of premium downtown office space in a Norfolk office building with a view of the new Plot park.
• Essential business support, including legal, accounting and marketing services.
• Support from mentors from successful businesses owners.
Through a partnership between We Are Titans and the City of Norfolk, Hatch is committed to growing and building Norfolk's technology and entrepreneurial community, having held several events where hundreds of companies have showcased their ideas, set-up mentoring programs, and worked with virtually every major technology-related community organization in Norfolk. Hatch’s founders are committed, passionate members of the Norfolk tech community and are entrepreneurs with decades of experience in technology, media and early-stage venture capital. Hatch's team has successfully founded, built, run, sold and financed businesses.
Hatch is also made possible from its local business community. Several companies xTuple, Kauffman and Canoles, General Ideas and Dominion Enterprises to name a few, contributed capital to help the Hatch Five.
For more information about Hatch, contact Zack Miller or @zackmiller84
#startnorfolk
Live Look In
Start Norfolk is a booming success for its second time around the block. The turnout tripled and the energy level of the people in this room are phenomenal. Entrepreneurs, Innovators, Business Gurus, Developers, Coders, and curious spectators have all flocked to the Ted Constant Center in Norfolk, Virginia. 11 teams have been selected to pitch out of over 72 applicants. Presentations are this evening at 6pm. $50K is on the line and a plethora of free services every startup will need that have a value of around $100K.
This is a remarkable event that is growing in popularity. Moreover, it was the launching pad for Vinylmint.
#Nostalgia
Follow your Dreams and Build Something Great
I wanted to take some time away from Aeir Talk today to talk to you all about following after that one big project you are always thinking of.
I am proud to be a speaker this weekend (April 27-29) at Start Norfolk an event where business people, designers, software engineers and the like get together to build businesses over a weekend. People get in front of judges, pitch their idea, and about 10 groups are chosen to build great products over the course of the weekend. Winner gets $15K if their product wins over the judges at the end of the weekend.
It is a rush! Having taken part in the last Start Norfolk, I can honestly say it is a life altering experience, and a great teaching experience as well. You'll learn more about how to build a lean business, how to pitch it hopefully, and connect with a lot of like minded people who want to build their dreams as well. You can make friends, or even meet future business partners. I am very excited to be a part of it.
I want to put this out there because we all think about building something great. A lot of us never will, because there are mitigating factors, or it just seems to0 hard. If you are in the Norfolk, VA area, you can make those dreams of building something great a reality. I have sat where you have sat, being unsure of my business idea, but I put myself out there time and time again and eventually it paid off, because I kept trying at it. If you keep trying at it, especially talking to people about your product, you will eventually do great things; and that doesn't always mean making a lot of money, but rather helping a lot of people.
So if you are reading this, and want to do something great over the course of a weekend, come to Start Norfolk, and do something great. You never know what might happen.
Joe Hill, Founder
Start Norfolk 2.0 Judges
We Are TItans is excited to announce the judges for Start Norfolk 2.0.
Frank G Logan has served as a CEO for more than 25 years following his service in the United States Navy. Frank has worked within technology organizations ranging from kitchen-table startup to complex turn-around situations. Additionally, he has served as a Director for a technology Council and a regional youth sports organization.
Frank is a technology savvy executive with a balance sheet orientation and deep experience in the financial aspects of startup and mid-market companies. He has raised over $50 million in funding from a variety of sources, public and private, debt and equity. He has served as CEO, Interim President and COO, Sr Vice President of Corporate Development and Chairman.
Prior to his entrepreneurial career, Frank served in the United States Navy from which he retired as a Lieutenant Commander after combined service on active duty flying the F-14 Tomcat and subsequent reserve duty.
Frank holds a Bachelor of Science in Economics from Purdue University. His work has been recognized by his selection as E&Y Entrepreneur of the Year and KPMG High Technology Executive.
Joe Fuller graduated from Georgia Tech. His career stops include restaurant management, IT project management and a 4 year stint as owner of a cash register dealership. For the last 15 years he has led the Internet technical operations of Trader Publishing/Dominion Enterprises and is Dominion's current CIO. Dominion employs 800 people in Norfolk, 65 of whom are software developers. He supervises the operation of two hosting centers where Dominion’s web sites, such as homes.com and boats.com, serve 15 million unique visitors each month. He also guides Dominion's online marketing and mobile development teams. Joe has 3 grown children and lives with his wife in Chesapeake, VA.
Karen Jackson serves as the Deputy Secretary of Technology for the Commonwealth of Virginia. In this capacity, she serves as a senior advisor to the McDonnell Administration on technology matters including modeling and simulation, telecommunications, and telework. Ms. Jackson is responsible for leading modeling and simulation, broadband and telework policy and legislative initiatives, as well as developing programs to facilitate collaborations, technology development and adoption. Prior to her current appointment, she served as Deputy Secretary of Technology and director of the Commonwealth’s Office of Telework Promotion and Broadband Assistance for the Kaine Administration.
Ms. Jackson has been actively engaged in the federal policy initiatives including the development of the National Broadband Plan. She has represented the National Governor’s Association on the National Telecommunications and Information Administration’s broadband panel related to proposed selection criteria, and participated in the FCC‘s National Broadband Plan workshop on State and Local government best practices. She received a 2009 IP3 award from Public Knowledge for her work in information policy and was named to Government Technology’s 2010 list of the top 25 Doers, Dreamers, and Drivers.
Ms. Jackson serves on a number of Boards including the Virginia Telehealth Network, the Information Technology Advisory Council, and the National Modeling and Simulation Advisory Council. She holds a bachelor's of science in business management at Christopher Newport University and a master's of business administration from The College of William and Mary.
Joe LaFond is a Certified Public Accountant with the accounting firm McPhillips, Roberts and Deans, PLC in Norfolk, VA. Joe has experience in a wide variety of industries and has been actively providing consulting services to start-up businesses. Contrary to many accountants, he recognizes that many entrepreneurs start their own businesses not with the sole purpose of making millions. He feels “Many entrepreneurs simply see a problem and they want to be the ones to fix it. They’d like to make money along the way, but for a lot of people it does not seem to be the primary driver. My job is to ensure that while they are focused on doing what they love to do, someone is still keeping their eyes on the bottom line.” As president of the Norfolk Jaycees and through his involvement with community initiatives like the “Brain Drain to Brain Gain” task force, Joe is fully invested in making Hampton Roads a better place to live and work. He had this to say about Start Norfolk, “I want to make Hampton Roads a more attractive place for young professionals to live and work. The participants and spectators at Start Norfolk clearly share that goal and through their attendance they are supporting what is effectively the preeminent catalyst for economic and cultural growth in Hampton Roads.”
Start Norfolk 2.0, a weekend long event bringing together individuals of different mind and skill sets— entrepreneurs, engineers, developers, designers, and business professionals —with the goal of building a viable startup. Winners will receive cash prizes toward launching their businesses, 1st place winner recieve $15K, 2nd place winners recieve $7.5K and third place winners recieve $2.5K. Winners also recieve prizes to help accelerate the success of their early stage startups, prizes include: legal, accounting, rent and busines consulting services worth over $50k.
Start Norfolk 2.0 will be held at the Ted Constant Convocation Center located on the campus of Old Dominion University on Friday, April 27th through Sunday, April 29th.
Register today!
Start Norfolk is a weekend long event bringing together individuals of different mind and skill sets— entrepreneurs, engineers, developers, designers, and business people—with the goal of building a viable startup over a weekend.
Start Norfolk 2.0
We Are Titans announces Start Norfolk 2.0, a weekend long event bringing together individuals of different mind and skill sets— entrepreneurs, engineers, developers, designers, and business professionals —with the goal of building viable startups.
Start Norfolk 2.0 will be held at the Ted Constant Convocation Center located on the campus of Old Dominion University on Friday, April 27th through Sunday, April 29th.
In addition to the startup competition, there will also be 11 speakers including Aneesh Chopra, the nation's first Chief Technology Officer, Anis Uzzaman, CEO and General Partner of Fenox Venture Capital, Jeff Casimir of Jumpstart Labs and Joe Hill, founder of Aeir Talk, an iPad education application.
The first Start Norfolk was held in November, 2011 at the Innovation Research Park at Old Dominion University. The weekend long event kicked off with over 30 business ideas pitched to a team of judges. After deliberation, eight ideas were selected for further development. Teams were then formed and work began on building each of their original concepts into viable businesses. TutoriALL, a tutorial creating app for mobile phones, was selected as the first Start Norfolk winner. TutoriALL has received assistance with accounting and legal services, office space and capital to help launch their business.
Over 175 people attended the first Start Norfolk and were highly enthusiastic about the outcome of the event, saying: "I felt like (it) was...the Woodstock of Technology, it was legendary," "Titanic event, #2 is a must!" and "I don't want to go back home to Atlanta."
Over three hundred people are expected to attend Start Norfolk 2.0, giving attendees a chance to showcase their ideas, network, and get feedback on the development of their ideas. President Obama recently recognized “that most new jobs are created in start-ups.” Start Norfolk is helping to build stronger entrepreneurial startup ecosystem in Norfolk, VA.
What will happen during the two and half days of Start Norfolk? Glad you asked! Here's what we had in mind:
50 plus hours jam-packed with inspiration, motivation and collaboration... oh yea, and building your startup!
11 of the nation's best and most innovative entrepreneurs
14 of the Mid-Atlantics best and talented mentors
5 meals
Unlimited coffee and beer
See schedule and hotel details
Want to learn more and register to participate? Visit: www.startnorfolk.com.
Here's a look at our incredible speakers for Saturday!
Alex Edrington is a co-Founder of Norfolk, VA-based ParasitX, LLC, and took on the role of President in May, 2011. Prior to starting ParasitX, Alex served as Vice President Engineering for AdaptivEnergy, LLC, a micro energy harvesting incubator headquartered in Hampton, VA.
Mike Fleck recently co-founded CipherPoint where he wears many hats including sales guys, support guy, janitor, and jailhouse lawyer. Prior to CipherPoint, Mike spent 17 years with enterprise software and professional services companies filling the gray space between engineering and sales.
Jonathan Aberman is the founder and Managing Director of Amplifier Ventures, a seed and early stage venture capital fund based in Mclean, VA. Since 2005 Amplifier has helped to start 14 new technology companies, including BrightHub, Cardstar, Hook Mobil, SpydrSafe and Zenoss. He is also the founder and President of FounderCorps a Virginia not for profit that provides experienced mentors to partners throughout the Greater Washington Region, including George Mason University, George Washington University, University of Maryland, Social Matchbox, Startup XCR8R and others. He is also the Co-Chair of StartupVirginia.
Aneesh Chopra is the United States Chief Technology Officer and in this role serves as an Assistant to the President and Associate Director for Technology within the Office of Science & Technology Policy. He works to advance the President’s technology agenda by fostering new ideas and encouraging government-wide coordination to help the country meet its goals from job creation, to reducing health care costs, to protecting the homeland.
Jeff Casimir started Jumpstart Lab, the world's leading Ruby/Rails training company, in 2009 after seven years as a public school teacher and administrator. He loves bringing people into development, and helping existing developers sharpen their skills.
Anis Uzzaman, Ph.D is the CEO and General Partner of Fenox Venture Capital. Located in the Silicon Valley, Fenox VC considers investments across all stages including seed investments, early and advanced growth rounds. Investments can range from a few hundred thousand to multi-million US dollars. Fenox VC invests primarily in emerging technologies spanning consumer Internet, software development, consumer retail and promising ideas from other fields.
The only question left to ask is, Will you be this year's TutoriALL?
What are you waiting for register today! If you have any questions contact [email protected].
