The 2023 Denver Startup Week, scheduled from September 18 to September 22, promises to be an extravaganza of ideas, networking, and opportunities. Founded by the dynamic trio of Erik Mitisek, Tami Door, and Ben Deda, this event is all about bringing the entrepreneurial community together for a week of collaboration, mentorship, and, of course, a dash of funding.A Week to RememberThis week-long celebration is organized by dedicated volunteers and the Downtown Denver Partnership, and it's all about you—the passionate entrepreneurs. The sessions are handpicked with input from the entrepreneurial community, making sure it aligns perfectly with your needs and interests.Tracks for EveryoneWith a whopping 200 sessions to choose from, you can customize your Denver Startup Week experience to match your startup's niche or your role within your business. That's the beauty of it, as Erik Mitisek puts it, "That's the magic of startup week."Celebrating Physical ProductsThe climax of this incredible week is the Physical Product Showcase event. Imagine a space where inventors, entrepreneurs, engineers, manufacturers, consultants, and investors come together to showcase their physical products. It's a playground of innovation and creativity, where you can discuss your journey and process with like-minded individuals.Bigger and BetterOrganizers are keeping their fingers crossed for a grand turnout this year. They're hoping to inch closer to pre-pandemic attendance levels, with nearly 15,000 people expected to participate—quite an increase from the 10,000 attendees last year. COVID-19 might have kept it from reaching 20,000, but the enthusiasm remains undiminished.A Founder's PerspectiveErik Mitisek, a five-time founder himself, knows firsthand the challenges that come with launching a startup. He describes it as the "hardest job in the world." But Denver Startup Week is his favorite time of year, focused on amplifying the stories of Denver startups and putting local entrepreneurs on the map. This year, the overarching themes are all about broad-based, collaborative inclusiveness.Artificial Intelligence Takes Center StageOne dominant issue that's set to capture everyone's attention this year is Artificial Intelligence (AI). Whether you're starting an AI-focused business or simply integrating AI into your startup, this topic is going to be everywhere. Mitisek and Tami Door, co-chairs of the event, say that AI's potential to boost productivity, profitability, and innovation has everyone intrigued. But they're also aware of the philosophical questions it raises, and Denver Startup Week aims to be a forum for discussing how Colorado can become a leader in responsibly managing AI as a tool.Diversity and InclusionAnother hot topic is diversity and DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion). It's not just about ticking boxes; it's about building successful, inclusive businesses in their growth stage. The week will delve into how to be highly inclusive and successful in growing your business, making it an enriching experience for all.Emerging IndustriesColorado has its sights set on emerging industries like clean energy and technology, positioning itself at the epicenter of the next energy wave. Startup Week has always been the breeding ground for new industries in the state, and this year is no different. From cannabis to blockchain, it's where these topics first emerged.Venture Capital and InvestmentsFor those of you eager to understand venture capital, there's a whole day dedicated to it. Learn how it works, how to secure it, and, most importantly, connect with investors. As Erik Mitisek puts it, "We're really focused on connecting founders with investors this year." The mentorship and knowledge sharing that occur during these interactions can often be the catalyst someone needs to take their startup to the next level.A Good Idea is a Good IdeaWith economic uncertainty looming, Mitisek and Door have a message for nervous entrepreneurs— a good idea will always find its way. Even in rocky economic times, if you've identified a niche and filled it, securing capital and launching is still very much possible. They point to success stories like Uber and Airbnb, which emerged during economic downturns.Denver's Vibrant EcosystemDenver aims to create an ecosystem that attracts entrepreneurs and businesses from all corners of the world. While most attendees were from Colorado last year, representatives from 41 countries graced the event. The energy and ideas that flow during this week are nothing short of incredible. Holding it in Denver's downtown, a melting pot of diverse professional backgrounds, ensures the exchange of ideas and knowledge is at its peak.What is Denver Startup Week?Denver Startup Week is an annual event in Denver, Colorado, focused on bringing together the entrepreneurial community for a week of networking, mentorship, and idea sharing.When is Denver Startup Week 2023?Denver Startup Week 2023 is scheduled to run from September 18 to September 22.Who founded Denver Startup Week?Denver Startup Week was co-founded by Erik Mitisek, Tami Door, and Ben Deda.
