Author Archives: Eau Claire Area EDC

1 Million Cups – Now in Eau Claire!

1 Million Cups, a free weekly program developed by the Kauffman Foundation that helps build startup communities nationwide, is now in full-swing right in Eau Claire!

Eau Claire, WI is one of the newest homes for a national program to engage, educate and connect local entrepreneurs. 1 Million Cups — based on the notion that entrepreneurs network and discover solutions over a million cups of coffee — is a free, weekly gathering that helps to build startup communities on a grassroots level.

Entrepreneurs, innovators, funders and other interested community members are invited to attend each Wednesday from 9 to 10 a.m. at the Local Lounge, located at 2106 N Clairemont Ave, Eau Claire, WI  54703.

The program’s model is consistent in each city: Every Wednesday morning, one or two early-stage startups present their companies to an audience of mentors, advisers, and other entrepreneurs. Each entrepreneur presents for six minutes, followed by a 20-minute question-and-answer session with the audience.

In each 1 Million Cups city, local entrepreneurs drive the program as community organizers. Volunteering for the leadership roles in City are:

  • Diane Hoadley, University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire
  • Ann Rupnow, University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire
  • Christina Wasson, Eau Claire Area EDC
  • Nick White, Live In Eau Claire
  • Heidi Schreiner, Landscape Designer/Consultant
  • Tyler Heath, The Moving Company
  • Jessica Wicklund, University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire
  • Becky Seelen, Eau Claire Chamber of Commerce
  • Tyler Anderson, University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire

Learn more about 1 Million Cups at http://www.1millioncups.com/eauclaire 

The Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation is a private, nonpartisan foundation that aims to foster economic independence by advancing educational achievement and entrepreneurial success. Founded by late entrepreneur and philanthropist Ewing Marion Kauffman, the Foundation is based in Kansas City, Mo., and has approximately $2 billion in assets. Visit www.kauffman.org for more information.

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