“We’re number one of the second tier.”
That’s how Me.dium co-founder Robert Reich described Boulder. And if you think about this for a moment you’ll realize that this is an advantageous position to hold. My Canadian Idol Theory holds up (More on this in a later post. Really). The city is big enough to provide meaningful support, yet not so big that tech start-ups become meaningless in the news.
I spent three days in Boulder (/Denver) last week and my impression of the emerging tech scene in that city continues to strengthen. Today, while thinking about my time there during a run it became official, I’ve become a fanboy of Boulder. What’s happening there is special and I hope that hasn’t been lost on those who are immersed in it.
There was such a feeling of community.
A warm dinner the first night with Brad, Ryan, Jason, and Chris (note: warmth may have resulted from Sake + altitude :)) helped set the tone for our time in Boulder. I enjoyed meeting familiar names like David from Colorado Start-ups and Tara from Lijit (who provided a tonne of helpful advice… and jokes! What is the deal with the extra dot in del.icio.us?)
The guys from Me.dium - Kimbal Musk, Robert Reich, and David Mandell - were helpful beyond belief and played wonderful hosts, inviting us to present at Boulder’s New Technology Meetup during a few minutes of downtime before heading to The Kitchen, Kimbal’s restuarant, for an incredible meal (I highly recommend the garlic fries).
It was fun to meet Josh from Intense Debate (more on this soon) and I’m looking forward to growing a friendship with him - it’s already started by swapping stories about moving thousands of miles to join a start-up and chase a dream. Stan must have drawn the shortest straw, having to eat dinner beside me two nights in a row. I really enjoyed chatting with Kevin, a mobile rock-star (Tiny Twitter!), while discussing the finer points of a start-up playoffs website (may have been the wine + altitude :)). And best of luck to Ari as he works towards Filtrboxes launch!
I was impressed with how the connections and relationships were woven together, everyone supporting one another in a way that transcended a working relationship and approached friendship. That’s a powerful community builder and something that happens from being the number one of the second tier. Hopefully I’ll be in Boulder again, I’m looking forward to meeting everyone again and seeing just how well the various companies are doing. Thanks everyone for making our trip so warm.
Add New Comment
Viewing 11 Comments
Thanks. Your comment is awaiting approval by a moderator.
Do you already have an account? Log in and claim this comment.
Do you already have an account? Log in and claim this comment.
Do you already have an account? Log in and claim this comment.
Do you already have an account? Log in and claim this comment.
Do you already have an account? Log in and claim this comment.
Do you already have an account? Log in and claim this comment.
Do you already have an account? Log in and claim this comment.
Do you already have an account? Log in and claim this comment.
Do you already have an account? Log in and claim this comment.
Do you already have an account? Log in and claim this comment.
Do you already have an account? Log in and claim this comment.
Do you already have an account? Log in and claim this comment.
Add New Comment