Part One of a Three-Part Series

Building a thriving startup community takes more than just brilliant ideas. It demands consistent financial backing and a strong, collaborative spirit. While individual startups often chase venture capital, the long-term health of an entire ecosystem relies on smart, strategic support.

Erik Mitisek, a veteran community builder, has raised over $10 million for community-based initiatives. He's learned a lot about cultivating these vital partnerships.

It's a Team Sport

Erik stresses that sponsorship is truly a team sport. It's about bringing everyone in your local ecosystem together. Think government, universities, corporations, and even individual entrepreneurs, all united by one ambitious vision.

He points to Denver's journey as a prime example. After a recession, Boulder was the clear startup leader in Colorado. Denver needed its own identity. Erik and his team ignited a rally cry: Denver would become the "tech hub between the coasts."

This wasn't an overnight success story. It was a 20-year vision built on consistent messaging, radical inclusivity, and achievable goals. This inspiring narrative brought diverse groups together, showing the power of collective ambition.

The Power of Inclusivity

A key lesson from Erik? Be "highly inclusive" when seeking sponsors. He shared the story of Denver's early "Startup Community Bash." This event was a test run for their sponsorship strategy.

The entry fee was just $1,000 for participation. But that small ask brought in 50 sponsors, including 11 competing law firms, raising $50,000 for a community celebration. This collaborative spirit, where rivals prioritized community growth over individual branding, proved powerful.

It showed funders a united front for Denver's emerging startup ecosystem. This approach didn't just fund one event; it created a platform of committed partners, making all future fundraising efforts smoother and more impactful. The message was clear: "It's a barn raising, not a competition."

How Techstars Helps

This philosophy is core to what the Techstars Startup Community Partnerships offer. We understand every community has its unique strengths.

We provide a structured framework for collaboration, proven methods for ecosystem development, and guidance on crafting a compelling, inclusive narrative. Techstars empowers your community to attract the sustained investment it needs to truly flourish.

Imagine various sectors coming together under one banner, all contributing to a shared vision of prosperity and innovation. That's the impact of strategic sponsorship, done right.

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