How 3 local orgs help founders and entrepreneurs build their networks

In the startup world, who you know can be just as important as what you know.

Founders and entrepreneurs lean on their connections for leadership advice, technical input, funding resources, growth opportunities and more. A peer or colleague can make introductions to accelerate a business’s trajectory, and a strong network can mean the difference between a successful company and a great idea that never gains traction.

But if you’re just starting out, it can be tough to make those initial contacts, especially if you’re from an underrepresented background or don’t already know folks in the industry. That’s where ecosystem-supporting orgs can help, acting as a gateway to the broader tech community and guiding you to take those first steps.

For some additional insights, the following organizations shared with us how they help local founders and entrepreneurs grow their networks. If you like what you see, follow the links to their Directory Pages to learn more and explore ways to connect.

Delaware Prosperity Partnership

Delaware Prosperity Partnership leads Delaware’s efforts to attract, grow and retain businesses; build a stronger entrepreneurial and innovation ecosystem; and support employers in place-marketing Delaware to potential employees.

“Delaware Prosperity Partnership works with a collaborative spirit to link budding entrepreneurs with members of the Delaware innovation ecosystem that can help the entrepreneurs thrive. In 2023 alone, DPP’s Innovation Team met with more than 60 new startups and continued engagement with two dozen additional startups to offer key advisement and vital introductions.

DPP has been able to launch numerous mentoring relationships by connecting top names in Delaware business with top-performing startups in their industries — particularly in science and technology. DPP always aims to leverage its partnerships to help ventures build the connections and networks needed to grow.” — Erica Crell, manager of innovation

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TEDCO

TEDCO, the Maryland Technology Development Corporation, enhances economic empowerment growth through the fostering of an inclusive entrepreneurial innovation ecosystem. The organization identifies, invests in and helps grow technology and life science-based companies in Maryland.

“TEDCO was created to support early-stage founders and startups in the technology and life science industries. After nearly 26 years of growth in leading innovation to market, we have a multitude of programs and opportunities that provide support to Maryland’s businesses. However, we recognize that at the center of all business growth is building connections and expanding networks; that’s why several of our resources assist with this endeavor.

Programs like the Prelude Pitch and Network Advisors offer entrepreneurs the opportunity to connect with Maryland thought leaders, gather knowledge from experts and grow their networks. The recent addition of the Institute for Women Entrepreneur Excellence expands this initiative, focusing on eliminating barriers that prevent women leaders from entering and thriving in entrepreneurship in the state.

Finally, TEDCO’s Development and Marketing department are prominent supporters of early-stage startups working with TEDCO. Through their support, entrepreneurs have benefited from access to events for making important connections, and exposure from media outlets through interviews, articles and more, all contributing to promoting the successes of TEDCO’s portfolio companies.” — Terry Rauh, chief finance and operations officer

University City Science Center

The Science Center is Philadelphia’s premier catalyst of entrepreneurial activity, healthcare innovation and economic growth. Established in 1963, the nonprofit has been recognized by The Brookings Institution as a best-in-class investor, mentor and economic development partner for young technology companies.

“The Science Center employs dual strategies to foster connections and network-building among founders and entrepreneurs. Participants in our startup support programs like Capital Readiness, Founders Fellowship and Proof Positive benefit from exclusive access to industry stakeholders, mentors and investors, with tailored support designed to address pain points at each stage of the commercialization continuum.

Additionally, attendees of our public-facing events, like Venture Café, which are free and open to the public, enjoy access to a vast and diverse network of players within the innovation ecosystem.” — Kristen Fitch, senior director of marketing

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Working to build connections in your local tech community? Take a look at the Technical.ly Preferred Partners list, and check out other companies in the Technical.ly network here to find out about their missions, cultures and initiatives.

P.S. If you’re curious about Technical.ly’s services for your own org, find more info here and connect with us.

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