The Myths and Reality of Tech Entrepreneurship and Getting Funding

As an entrepreneur, understanding what it takes to succeed and secure investment while still retaining the enthusiasm and drive to move forward can be challenging. Melanie de Vries of the SBDC Tech Team will take you through the myths and realities of running a scalable startup to get to the truth of why some startups succeed and others do not. There are several inaccurate assumptions about business that early-stage entrepreneurs tend to make; join her as she dives into them and how you can resolve them successfully along your journey.

Event format:

This is an in-person event and lunch will be provided. There is no charge to attend.

Space is limited. Please register.

Who should attend:

The workshop is open to the public and suitable for early- and middle-stage business owners

Key take-aways:

• How to ask yourself the hard questions at the early stages of your business to ensure success
• Learn why startups fail so that you can avoid common inflection points
• Learn business needs and requirements outside of your product or offering

About the speaker:

Melanie has over 20 years’ experience in driving growth strategy for early-stage software, education technology, professional services, non-profit, alternative energy, manufacturing, and health services organizations. She has a history of success in developing marketing and sales programs that build and improve on the profitability of companies.

Her recent experience includes serving as CEO and Co-Founder of PaymentScholar (an edtech start-up). She has worked in the entrepreneurial ecosystem as an independent consultant advising start-up organizations on strategic planning, market positioning, market analysis, brand development, and customer discovery. She has also served as the senior marketing officer for Deloitte & Touche/Deloitte Consulting, The Learning Care Group and ForeSee Results. In these roles, she oversaw the execution of business and marketing strategies to drive growth and increase market share.

Melanie is a graduate of The University of Michigan.

About 20Fathoms

20Fathoms is the home of technology and entrepreneurship in Northern Michigan. We catalyze innovation and entrepreneurship through startup incubation services, business workshops, community partnership, and a vibrant coworking space. We also remove barriers and accelerate career growth through tech career training, talent acquisition, and the advancement of regional strategic initiatives.