Ah, the “Boulder Thesis”. Startup Communities is essential reading for anyone in the startup world, especially if you’re in the startup world outside of the Bay Area. I’ve read this book quite a few times, and have heartily recommended it over and over again. It has become such an important part of startup community development that many of the terms, ways of thinking, and even the phrase “Boulder Thesis” have become part of the startup lexicon. If you’re in the startup world and you haven’t read it, go grab it now.
Publisher’s Summary
“Startup communities” are popping up everywhere, from cities like Boulder to Boston and even in countries such as Iceland. These types of entrepreneurial ecosystems are driving innovation and small-business energy. Startup Communities documents the buzz, strategy, long-term perspective, and dynamics of building communities of entrepreneurs who can feed off of one another’s talent, creativity, and support.
Based on more than 20 years of Boulder-based entrepreneur turned-venture capitalist Brad Feld’s experience in the field, as well as contributions from other innovative startup communities, this reliable resource skillfully explores what it takes to create an entrepreneurial community in any city, at any time. Along the way, it offers valuable insights into increasing the breadth and depth of the entrepreneurial ecosystem by multiplying connections among entrepreneurs and mentors, improving access to entrepreneurial education, and much more.
- Details the four critical principles needed to form a sustainable startup community
- Perfect for entrepreneurs and venture capitalists seeking fresh ideas and new opportunities
- Written by Brad Feld, a thought-leader in this field who has been an early-stage investor and successful entrepreneur for more than 20 years
Engaging and informative, this practical guide not only shows you how startup communities work, but it also shows you how to make them work anywhere in the world.