First Look Forum March 24, 2009

Magnify your opportunities -- first impressions count!
Apply by February 6 to make your pitch at NWEN’s inaugural First Look Forum.

Don’t miss this premier opportunity to present your early stage company to a forum of qualified angel investors. Gain the practice, visibility and connections you need to make a great first impression and get a clear understanding on how to move your business forward.

NWEN’s First Look Forums provide the next generation of emerging Northwest companies with the opportunity to pitch their business ideas to, and network with, an audience of the region’s top angels.

NWEN is inviting applications from entrepreneurs in every product and service segment. A maximum of a dozen startups will be selected per forum, provided intensive coaching by a team of seasoned investors, and given the opportunity to present to a room of close to 100 angels.

There are currently two forums planned for 2009, with the first scheduled for March 24. The application deadline to be considered for the March forum is Friday, February 6. Spots are limited, so entrepreneurs wishing to present should apply now. ((hotlink))

Who should apply:
The First Look Forums are targeted at early stage entrepreneurs who haven’t previously presented and are in the pre-funding stage of their trajectory. If you have a business plan that is differentiated, that you are able to articulate, then this forum is for you.

Entrepreneurs should be ready to:
• Work through the investor presentation process
• Connect with the people you need to know
• Receive structured feedback and advice from experienced entrepreneurs and angels with
operating experience to shape your pitch and business proposition
• Present to an audience of early stage investors who are there to take a “First Look” at you

Forum format:
The half day forums will be held in a single track. Twelve companies will be selected to give their three minute pitches. The audience will then vote to determine the top five companies. These five companies will then make their 15 minute business plan presentations.

The winning presenter from the forum will receive a prize package including offerings from Swift HR Solutions, Microsoft BizSpark, Puget Sound Business Journal, Keiretsu Forum, and Zino Society, in addition to incredibly valuable contacts, advice and connections. And maybe, just maybe, one or more will end up with a relationship that will help take their idea and their company to the next level.

Key dates:
February 6: Deadline for applying to present at the March 24 Forum
February 23-27: Initial presentation and review to screening committee and coaches
March 9: Announcement of 12 presenting companies
March 10-17: Presenters meet with coaches
March 24: First Look Forum

If you’re an entrepreneur looking for relationships with and feedback from experienced angel investors there’s no better opportunity than NWEN’s First Look Forums.

Official Website: http://www.nwen.org