ALEXANDRIA, Va. (WUSA9) -- Connect113, Alexandria's original co-working space hosted a tech-focused entrepreneur forum with respected local industry leaders for a panel discussion, Q&A and unparalleled networking.
The concept of 'TechPreneur' is based on the idea of connecting entrepreneurs with critical resources, including: social contacts/networking, funding and the technical advances in business that a start-up needs to be successful and up-to-speed with an ever changing tech world.
Speakers included Joshua M. Konowe (CEO of Folr.com; a four time entrepreneur with three successful exits - eAgent, BrandClick & Uppidy): Joshua was a board member and corporate secretary at Armortext and GreatMonday. As a former lecturer and panel judge for an MBA class at Georgetown University, Joshua frequently mentors aspiring entrepreneurs. He is currently a lecturer at The University of Maryland and George Mason University. His previous work includes Nielsen, Euromoney PLC, TheDeal.com & Katz Media Group.
Brian Sacash (Business Development Manager at Koverse, Lean Startup Mentor): Brian is a Washington, D.C. area business developer and analyst who works at the intersection of business and technology. With a background in business analytics, Brian's expertise is in helping organizations discover ways to extract value from data. Brian is also experienced in applying lean methodologies within growing and Fortune 500 companies. Prior to Koverse, Brian was part of Booz Allen Hamilton's Data Science Team and Innovation Consulting Team.
Tiziana Barrow (PMP Digital Marketing Expert & Consultant): Tiziana, an advanced digital marketing expert and consultant listens, evaluates and does. Tiziana is passionate about finding the 'missing link' between marketing and sales organizations, and how technology is transforming these roles. The buying process is no longer a linear journey, hence these teams must collaborate as if in a relay race (do not drop the ball). Tiziana specializes in customer journey, marketing automation, SaaS, B2B, project management, Salesforce, vendor management, and much more. She currently teaches a boot camp Marketing and Sales Alignment: Click it to Ticket Customer Journey.
'TechPreneur' began with a 30 minute networking session for guests to engage with speakers, providing a 1:1 forum for attendees to chat with the knowledgeable speakers. After refreshments were enjoyed during the first portion, the panelists and guests settled into seats to begin the fireside chat. Moderator Glenda Fu of Haute Haus Agency, who helped organize the event, asked a variety of questions highlighting the many facets of tech entrepreneurship.
All three speakers came from similar corporate backgrounds, but reached a point in their careers where they flipped a switch and decided to jump start their own businesses. Josh had a personal wake-up call after 9/11 and decided he could not wait anymore to make a change. Tiziana was inspired into entrepreneurship through motherhood, seeing a need for herself to lead by example instead of becoming another follower. Brian registered for 'Start Up Weekend' where his life was instantly changed when he was challenged by other entrepreneurs to create his own start-up.
All three speakers discussed the importance of the tech world in all industries. Josh highlighted how technology "provides opportunities for all businesses to cross chasms…bridging the have and have nots"— helping to 'level the playing field'. Tiziana added that technology has helped "change [the] dynamics of how people collaborate"— connecting the world so that 'distance is eliminated'. Brian agreed, stating that technology has made it possible for a person to "sit behind a desk in a room and create a whole company without leaving that room."
The tech world has opened many doors for new businesses in the past few years; moreover, allowing for more convenience and connection across the world. "Startups can [now] try riskier things faster than larger companies due to technology," added Brian. The panelists discussed some of their most impressive tech peers, citing innovations that have blown their mind. All agreed that Elon Musk has had a momentous impact on science and technology generating ideas and products that will allow constituents to surpass the grid- all while utilizing natural resources.
But is there a ceiling to the tech boom? Brian believes that there are 'caps in certain verticals' such as automobiles; however, he agreed with Josh that there is not technically a ceiling but a 'reapplication of ideas.' Citing Musk as an example, Josh explained how there are individuals in the tech world that can and will break the mold.
The panel was then opened up to Q&A from audience members who were eager to pick the brains of these tech world experts. From advice on app development and tackling investors, guests learned how speakers grew their own businesses, as well as their own failures and successes while on that path. Failure was discussed in excess as it is a major part of any entrepreneur's life. "Get used to the word 'no'," expressed Brian.
All three speakers agreed that they have all seen failure, even multiple times, but that each time it has been an opportunity to grow and learn how to mold their company for success. "There is no security blanket," stated Josh, who saw the ending of one of his start-ups during the housing market crash of 2007-2008. "Lots of things can kill you — big companies can kill you, external factors can kill you…you can either wait to be killed or kill yourself," Josh joked. Similar to Josh, Brian confronted obstacles and the metaphorical 'entrepreneur leap' with the same spirit. "You can be happy and uncomfortable or unhappy and comfortable…you just have to close your eyes and jump," stated Brian.
Tiziana agreed, stating that "you are your biggest obstacle." She added that it is necessary to 'get over your own fears' to become a truly successful entrepreneur. Originally launched in 2010, Connect113 offers: 24-hour access, conference rooms, guest hours, kitchen, shower (yes, even a shower), a dedicated address/mailbox as well as building directory listing(s) and discounted rates for every additional team member of your growing business.
Guests receive all the essential amenities (wifi, supplies and coffee, of course) you would expect to find in a corporate setting along with the creative energy and camaraderie of a startup. In close proximity to metro, downtown historic Alexandria, the Potomac River, major highways and airport, it's the ideal locale. Public transportation includes bikes, boats, trains and trolleys - King Street Metro and Old Town Trolley within walking distance. Join for an ideal space with big city access and a small town charm.
To learn more about Connect113 please visit: Connect113
