Michael Ryan Norton, Technical Project Manager of UP Global, has been paired with Eau Claire’s Startup Weekend as part of his cross-country tour. Norton has been with UP Global, the organization behind the Startup Weekend movement worldwide, since August of 2014. He is also the Founder of Jet City Limited and owner of his own photography business.

Patrick Gaetjens, Project Manager of the EDC, had the opportunity to attend Kansas City Startup Weekend where Norton was facilitating.

“Michael did a great job facilitating the Startup Weekend and I’m glad we have such an experienced facilitator. Michael’s impressive speaking skills and relaxed personality make him an ideal facilitator for Eau Claire’s first ever Startup Weekend.”

Startup Weekends are 54-hour events where developers, designers, marketers, product managers and startup enthusiasts come together to share ideas, form teams, build products, and launch startups! Beginning with open mic pitches on Friday evening, attendees bring their best ideas and inspire others to join their team. Over Saturday and Sunday, teams focus on customer development, validating their ideas, practicing LEAN Startup Methodologies, and building a minimal viable product. On Sunday evening, teams demo their prototypes and receive valuable feedback from a panel of experts. Startup Weekend Awards are then presented.

Eau Claire’s Startup Weekend is taking place October 2-4, 2015 at the newly renovated Lismore Hotel (formerly Downtown Ramada). To learn more about Eau Claire’s Startup Weekend, or to register, visit www.ec-startupweekend.com