Innovate Hampton Roads highlights the contributions of The Launch Place, an organization dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship and innovation in regions of Virginia and North Carolina. The Launch Place has leveraged local assets to become an innovation hub, investing in high-growth startups through funds and offering comprehensive support. Among its upcoming events is the Big Launch Challenge 2023, an annual competition set to be held on October 5, 2023, which brings together angel investors and entrepreneurs. This event provides networking opportunities, showcases early-stage startups, and rewards winners with a prize of $15,000. The organization’s work is an example of the potential of the Dan River Region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and its transformation into an innovation hub once more.
Introduction
By Tim Ryan
The Launch Place
Innovate Hampton Roads is pleased to highlight the efforts of The Launch Place, an organization focused on fostering entrepreneurship and innovation in the Danville City and Pittsylvania County region of Virginia and Caswell County in North Carolina. The Launch Place was established with the backing of the Danville Regional Foundation, which awarded it a $10 million grant in 2012 to stimulate entrepreneurship and create a more robust local and regional economy. The Launch Place has successfully leveraged the region’s unique assets, such as its central location, warehouses, and transportation corridors, to become a hub for innovation once again. Through the Pre-Seed Fund II and Seed Fund II, the organization continues to invest in high-growth, technology-driven startups and offers comprehensive support to new companies, furthering its mission to build a thriving tech-based economy.
Upcoming Events
Here are two exciting upcoming events that deserve special attention:
1. Big Launch Challenge Pitch Competition
On October 5, 2023, The Launch Place, in collaboration with the Angel Capital Association (ACA) Angel University, will host the 11th Annual Big Launch Challenge at the NC Biotechnology Center in Durham, NC. This event will bring together angel investors and entrepreneurs for a learning, sharing, and networking day. The competition awards $15,000 in prize money, showcases ten leading early-stage startups, and provides invaluable networking opportunities and resources. The deadline to apply is September 1, 2023. For more information, apply to pitch at the Big Launch Challenge 2023 or register to attend.
2. ACA Angel University
Held on the same day as the Big Launch Challenge, the ACA Angel University will offer two interactive workshops, “Due Diligence” and “Exit Strategies.” These courses are tailored for both entrepreneurs and angel investors, providing insights and strategies to optimize angel investments and startup success. Taught by leading experts, attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the due diligence process, exit strategy planning, and how to achieve mutually beneficial outcomes. Register at ACA Angel University.
Conclusion
Innovate Hampton Roads celebrates the work of organizations like The Launch Place that continue to nurture innovation, stimulate job creation, and pave the way for a brighter, tech-driven future. The Launch Place’s efforts exemplify the strength and vitality of the Dan River Region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and its potential to transform the area into a hub of innovation once again. For additional information about these events, contact Varun Sadana.
Question & Answer
What is The Launch Place?
The Launch Place is an organization dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship and innovation in regions of Virginia and North Carolina, specifically in Danville City, Pittsylvania County, and Caswell County.
How does The Launch Place support startups?
The Launch Place supports startups by investing in high-growth technology-driven startups through funds like Pre-Seed Fund II and Seed Fund II, as well as offering comprehensive support to new companies.
What is the Big Launch Challenge 2023?
The Big Launch Challenge 2023 is an annual competition hosted by The Launch Place in collaboration with the Angel Capital Association (ACA) Angel University. It brings together angel investors and entrepreneurs, showcases early-stage startups, and awards winners with a prize of $15,000.
