Running a business requires an immense amount of time and energy. And sometimes, so does Twin Cities Startup Week.
That's not necessarily a bad thing, but it presents a challenge to founders and startup employees trying to take advantage of the week's many showcases and networking sessions while accomplishing day-to-day tasks.
Legal-tech startup SupraBook participated in TCSW for the first time last fall. The company offers a tool that allows attorneys to digitize, edit and share legal documents. In 2018, the company showed off its product at two of TCSW's most popular events: Minnedemo and the Beta Showcase.
Minne Inno spoke with SupraBook's Chief Marketing Officer Simon Okiror about the startup's plans for TCSW 2019.
Note: This conversation has been edited for brevity and clarity.
Minne Inno: How will SupraBook be participating in TCSW this year?
Simon Okiror: Last year was our first year and we didn't have much of a strategy. The Beta.MN Showcase, our first exhibit, and Minnedemo, our first audience demo, consumed a lot of our energy. But it was totally worth it.
MI: How has your schedule changed in year two?
SO: This year, we're prioritizing focused networking and meetings with people and groups who can help advance our company. We've scheduled a few meetings already and want to book as many followup meetings as possible. We also want to give back to the community when we can and will attend or volunteer at Beta.MN and Minnestar events. I'm also speaking at Fueled Collective and BITcon events.
MI: Do you believe it's difficult to balance TCSW events with your typical workload? How do you plan to balance the two?
SO: The short answer is yes, but the benefits far outweigh the challenges. We don't plan to change too much. We've just accepted that we're going to work longer hours and skip leisure activities for a few days. I'm also doing meal prep and extra cardio in advance.
MI: Would you recommend that other founders/entrepreneurs participate somehow in TCSW?
SO: Absolutely! No doubt. Just make sure you have a strategy so you don't get overwhelmed. Speak to another founder or entrepreneur who has already been for tips.
MI: Are there any events in particular that you're looking forward to?
SO: The Beta.MN Showcase and Minnedemo. We did both last year and both organizations have done a ton for the community and for us. Also, it's inspiring to see and connect with early-stage startups before they blow up. We love how BITcon and Fueled Collective promote diversity in tech, so I'm looking forward to their events.
MI: What do you believe the benefits are to TCSW?
SO: For early-stage startups, connections and exposure. Everyone you'll need to lean on – other founders, incubators, accelerators, investors, advisors, customers, corporations – they're all there and willing to help. It's also a gold mine for connecting with media outlets and for creating your own social content.
