Almost 2 years ago I co-created a new group here in Steamboat to help cultivate Steamboat’s innovation economy. At the time we didn’t have a clue where to start or what the group should be about. But, we did have an insight that there was an opportunity to provide a venue for forward-thinkers, entrepreneurs & tech junkies to meet, socialize and hopefully create something meaningful for our community.

We decided to promote the events with Ignite style presentation from the members. The Ignite presentation format of 5-minutes, 20 slides, automatically advancing every 15 seconds has produced some truly enlightening presentations. We filmed almost all of the presentations and they’re available to you online: http://ignitesteamboat.com/videos/

The Ignite Steamboat events are completely free.

Growth

2 years ago this thing started with just a handful of people. Now, there’s 142 on the list and we’ve had great participation at the Ignite events. If you’ve been looking for a group that promotes fresh thinking, connects entrepreneurs and interesting people, Ignite Steamboat may be your thing.

Spark Talks

In November we introduced Spark Talks. Spark talks are live video interviews via Skype with thought-leaders and entrepreneurs from around the country.

The hope is that their words ‘spark’ you to start something meaningful. The response from these special guests has been nothing less than enthusiastic and supportive of what this group is about.

If you’ve missed these, they’re available online for you here: www.ignitesteamboat.com/spark-talks/

A Night of Innovation

Next Thursday (April 7th) we have our biggest event yet with 3 incredible Spark Talks Lined up:

• Charlene Li – Author & Social Media Innovator
• Brad Feld – Entrepreneur, Venture Capitalist & Founder of Tech Stars
• Chase Jarvis – Professional Photographer, Entrepreneur & Innovator

Charlene Li

Charlene Li

First up is Charlene Li. This woman is amazing and we’re really honored for Charlene to spend some time with the group. If you have any interest in forward thinking business practices, social media or the new rules of leadership, this is for you. 
- Named by Fast Company as one of The Most Influential Women in Technology
- Named by Fast Company as one of The 12 Most Creative Minds of 2008
- “Groundswell” named by Fortune Magazine as one of the 3 best Web books of 2008
- “Groundswell” named by Advertising Age as number 3 of 10 Books You Should Have Read
www.charleneli.com

(Can’t see the video? Click here.)

Chase Jarvis

Chase Jarvis

Next will be world-famous photographer & entrepreneur Chase Jarvis. This guy has taken the photography industry to a new level and he got his start here in Steamboat! 
What Chase brings to the table is way more than photography.  Sure he’s a phenomenal photographer but his approach opened up what had traditionally been an industry built on secrecy and fear. So even if photography isn’t your thing, Chase has a lot to offer.

There’s no doubt you’ve seen his work for brands like Nike, Pepsi, Volvo, Reebok, Apple, and Red Bull!
www.chasejarvis.com
Chase Photographs New Zealand

(Can’t see the video? Click here.)

Brad Feld

Brad Feld

We have Mr. Brad Feld scheduled to speak with us live via Skype. Honestly I wish just typing his name would be enough for you to camp out in front of the Smokehouse to ensure a seat but I realize that some of you may need more convincing. Brad has been the driving force behind the incredible technology & startup growth in Boulder.   


The current book club book, Do More Faster was co-written by Brad. 


Brad has been an early stage investor and entrepreneur for over twenty years. Prior to co-founding Foundry Group, he co-founded Mobius Venture Capital and, prior to that, founded Intensity Ventures, a company that helped launch and operate software companies. Brad is also a co-founder of TechStars.
www.feld.com
Brad Feld on Techstars

(Can’t see the video? Click here.)

What Are You Waiting For?

This promises to be our biggest Ignite event yet! There’s a cap of 60 max – so the first 60 to RSVP are in. There are a few spots left so please RSVP now if you’d like to go!
 
Act now and save your spot!

Videos & More

I posted several videos of our Spark Talk guests on the site. Go here to check it out: http://ignitesteamboat.com/2011/03/a-night-of-innovation/

Special Thanks

Special thanks to Noreen Moore, Chad James, Jens Owen & John Moyer, all co-organizers, for their persistence, hard work and value they’ve been providing this group.