Celebrating Entrepreneurial Spirit: Highlights From The Startup Champions Network Summit
For three days, from April 30th to May 2nd, Startup Champions Network (SCN) and the Shenandoah Community Capital Fund hosted an event that felt more like a celebration of the entrepreneurial spirit thriving in the Shenandoah Valley than a typical conference.
The 2024 Startup Champions Network Summit was packed with activities, workshops, and discussions. We explored topics like inclusive entrepreneurship and empowering under-represented populations while getting to know the unique aspects of the local ecosystem. My favorite part was the breakout sessions where we worked with local members to brainstorm solutions for real-life issues affecting founders in the Shenandoah Valley.
I also loved interacting with the local community. We visited multiple local ecosystems, enjoying great coffee, delicious food, and some fantastic craft beverages. We visited places like the Manufactory, and the Virginia Metal Crafters Building – with a kick-a$$ concert venue and a wine incubator! Strolling around Staunton with friends, I bought a tiara from a local artisan, and I wasn’t the only one! Dinner with locals, a scavenger hunt, and plenty of shopportunities to support the local economy made the experience even more enjoyable.
This summit was not just about listening to success stories; it was about being part of one. Spending time with our cohort from the Make Startups Executive Fellowship made it all the more special. The 2024 Spring Ecosystem Builder Summit was a testament to the vibrant entrepreneurial spirit of the Shenandoah Valley and a celebration of the future we’re creating together.
Maura Shenker
Program Director
Make Startups
