Second Impressions

I’m an investor in a company called GiveForward which helps raise money for loved ones, for medical needs. This company has so much “heart” that it’s hard to describe. You feel it in the founders every day, and in the stories that come in from their customers. I am incredibly proud of them for what …

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28 Million More Ways To Help Startups

When I founded Techstars in 2006, the goal was to help discover amazing entrepreneurs and invest in them with not just dollars but also with a new style of super-engaged mentorship. Looking back after six years, we’ve expanded to five locations and Techstars has become something very special. The network of mentors, entrepreneurs, and investors …

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There is no tone in email

Consider the email chain below. I’ve assembled it in sequential order and bracketed out some parts that are not public.   On Feb 8, 2012, at 10:56 AM, David Cohen wrote: Hi Mark, [Something great is happening to me that I never expected – redacted]. Who knew. Can you send me [the address I need …

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file under: Blog, Startups

San Diego and Entrepreneurial Communities

Last night, I was invited by Xconomy to come to San Diego and talk about entrepreneurial communities at a private dinner that had about 25 entrepreneurs and investors that care deeply about the issue. It was a great group of people and a lively discussion to say the least. Xconomy had asked that I share …

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file under: Startups

Help me crush Brad Feld like a bug

If you have a startup, and you want free stuff, head over to Startup America and sign up. Techstars is in a race with Brad Feld (booooo!) to see who can sign the most startups up. We must win or we will be… well…. bummed out! Help us! What do you get? A growth kit …

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Microsoft launches the Kinect Accelerator

In mid-November, Microsoft announced its launch of the Kinect Accelerator, a Seattle-based accelerator program powered by Techstars. Since then, hundreds of applications have poured in from hackers and entrepreneurs eager to tap into the possibilities of the infinite motion sensing world. What innovative idea that leverages the Kinect do you have? Remember that Kinect is …

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