Bounce’s third-annual Startup Showcase brought Akron’s entrepreneurial community together again for a full day of speakers, workshops and presentations with a focus on highlighting the nonprofit’s programs and entrepreneurs. The day kicked off with a rousing talk from LinkedXL CEO Bill Taylor, a former Goodyear Tire executive and motivational speaker, followed by networking and a wide variety of workshops and one-on-one office hours for entrepreneurs.
A special VIP dinner was hosted in The Bit Factory on the fifth floor as a thank you to Bounce’s presenting partners, donors and event sponsors. The private event featured several local food entrepreneurs who treated guests to a variety of dishes and cocktails. These entrepreneurs included Jenuine Cuisines Catering, Julia Belle’s Seasonings, Cookie’s Chicago-style BBQ, Bereka Ethiopian Coffee and Cuisine and Mxology 21 Craft Cocktail Catering.
In the evening, guests were treated to networking, a live DJ and catering by Stray Dog Cafe. Bounce’s five showcase entrepreneurs, then each took the stage, led by emcee Dan Hampu, executive director of the Student Venture Fund and COO of Fontus Blue. The presenters were:
Vinny Peterson, CEO, Vigeo Gardens, Tech Incubator
Jason Edwards, founder, Shoo.in, Next Level Business Incubator
Denise Williams, founder, Diva de la Creme, MORTAR at Bounce graduate
Matt Crowley and Bill Wichert, TonDone, Software Accelerator
Dr. Dan German, founder, orthobrain, Tech Incubator, remote
Thank you to everyone – staff, volunteers, donors, entrepreneurs, partners and friends – who made this event a success!
Photos by Shane Wynn Photography