Jan. 21, 2014 (Akron, Ohio) – To foster entrepreneurship and retain talent in Akron, OSC Tech Lab, a new local co-working space for technology startups, is partnering with SunDown RunDown, a group that creates networks and provides support for entrepreneurs, to establish two new events. The events are being supported by $20,000 from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation.
The first SparkAK event will be held Feb. 7-9, 2014. Startup enthusiasts, including developers, marketers, designers and business professionals, will develop ideas for new companies and products, as well as solutions for community challenges. The group will then vote on these ideas and form teams to create a working prototype or pitch.
Local speakers and coaches will work with the teams. On Feb. 9 each team will pitch their project to a panel of investors. Winners will share in more than $3,000 in prizes along with opportunities to develop their ideas further.
“It’s going to be an intense weekend of product iteration with some fun mixed in to keep everyone sane,” said Nicholas Petroski, co-host and president of OSC Tech Lab.
“These events will help nuture a culture of entrepreneurship in Akron and strengthen community attachment by providing a channel for innovative people to build on ideas that are important to them,” said Jennifer Thomas, Knight Foundation program director for Akron.
Tickets for the February event are available now. To learn more about the event and be notified when tickets go on sale visit: www.OSCTechLab.com/sparkak.html
About OSC Tech Lab
OSC Tech Lab is a brand new co-working space located in downtown. The space is a haven for Akron’s tech entrepreneurs and freelancers to work, meet people, and enjoy the startup ride. To learn more about OSC Tech Lab, Akron’s startup co-working space, please visit http://www.osctechlab.com/
About SunDown RunDown Akron
SDRD Akron is a group of individuals who bring entrepreneurs, investors, mentors and talent together to make great connections and build local businesses. Chapters currently include Columbus, Mansfield and Akron. The Akron Chapter is run by Katie Mang and hosts quarterly pitch events for budding entrepreneurs in the greater Akron community. To learn more about SunDown RunDown, please visit http://sundownrundown.org/
About the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation
Knight Foundation supports transformational ideas that promote quality journalism, advance media innovation, engage communities and foster the arts. We believe that democracy thrives when people and communities are informed and engaged. www.knightfoundation.org
CONTACTS:
Nicholas Petroski, President, OSC Tech Lab, 330-283-5568, Nick@OSCTechLab.com
Anusha Alikhan, Director of Communications, John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, 305-908-2677, media@knightfoundation.org