We know you’ve got a TON of questions!
Q: What is Techstars Global Startup Weekend COVID-19 | Remote Edition?
A: A fully online Techstars Global Startup Weekend, ran on a country level, designed to support participants to develop prototypes which will contribute to solving the most pressing challenges around the COVID-19 pandemic. So far, 57 countries have signed up to host an event during this initiative.
Q: When will it take place?
A: Our event starts on the 24th of April and ends on the 26th. You’ll be part of a global community with events taking place all over the world, through the entire month of April.
Q: Why are we doing this now?
A: COVID-19 has developed into a global crisis in just a few weeks. 196 countries are currently affected by the virus and facing similar challenges. Techstars and Startup Weekend have one of the world’s largest networks of founders, community leaders, corporate executives, mentors, and investors, with enough brainpower and passion to come up with innovative solutions to these challenges.
We want to provide a platform for everyone to be heard and harness some of the brightest minds and innovations. We will bring this network together in a 54 hour online Startup Weekend to develop prototypes that will contribute to solving the most pressing challenges of this global pandemic.
Q: Will there be a focus on specific themes for this edition?
A: Yes! We encourage participants to come up with solutions to problems that are affecting communities across the globe during this crisis. The themes we selected are:
- Health: Address and scale a range of health initiatives, including preventative/hygiene behaviors (especially for at-risk countries and populations), supporting frontline health workers, scaling telemedicine, contact tracing/containment strategies, treatment and diagnosis development.
- Vulnerable Populations: The set of problems facing the elderly and the immuno-compromised, such as access to meals and groceries, and supporting those who are losing jobs and income.
- Businesses: The set of problems that businesses are facing to stay afloat, collaborate effectively and move parts of their business online.
- Community: Promoting connection to friends, family, and neighbors to combat social isolation and the digitizing of public services for local governments.
- Education: Alternative learning environments and tools for students, teachers, and entire school systems.
- Entertainment: Alternatives to traditional forms of entertainment that can keep the talent and audiences safe and healthy.
- Other: The above themes are just suggestions. Feel empowered to get creative!
Q: Do I need to pay to participate in the event?
A: There are no ticket fees for Techstars Global Startup Weekend COVID-19 | Online Edition. There is an option to make a donation. All proceedings from the donations will be going to the World Health Organization.
Q: Do I need a team to participate?
A: Everyone who attends the event as a participant is expected to participate on a team. This is important not only to preserve the mission of Techstars Startup Weekend (teamwork!) but also to minimize distractions/disruptions for all working teams. You do not need to come with a team. You will be able to join a team before the event kicks off.
Q: What ticket type should I purchase to submit an idea?
A: You can purchase any ticket you prefer. You will find a link to the Idea Submission Form in your ticket purchase confirmation email.
Q: Do I have to submit an idea to attend?
A: No, but we encourage you to! You can submit an idea related to solving a COVID-19 related problem.
Q: Can I submit an idea not related to COVID-19?
A: The focus of this initiative is on solving COVID-19 related issues. Having said that, we encourage you to use the themes mentioned above as a guideline when submitting your idea.
Q: If I submitted an idea, does that mean that I will get to work on it during the weekend?
A: The event mentors will select approximately 30% of the ideas submitted and those will be worked on during the weekend. We can’t guarantee that your idea will be selected, but we encourage you to submit a clear and compelling written elevator pitch, outlining why your idea is relevant in the context of the COVID 19 crisis.
Q: I did not submit an idea but I’d like to join a team. How can I do that?
A: Team formation will happen using a platform called Discord. After you’re registered on Eventbrite, you’ll get an e-mail from us with instructions on how to join us on our Discord server.
Q: How many participants are allowed to join a team?
A: The ideal team size is anywhere between 5 and 10 participants.
Q: Do I have to participate all three days?
A: Yes. This is important not only to preserve the ‘vibe’ of the weekend (“no talk, all action”) but also to minimize distractions/disruptions for working teams.
Q: What do I need for the weekend?
A: You will need a reliable internet connection and access to a few tools that will be used during the weekend. Make sure you download Discord and can use Google Hangouts or Zoom.
Q: How will I interact with the other attendees?
A: We are using a platform called Discord for this event. The organizers will invite you to join Discord before the event kicks off.
Q: Will I have the chance to get advice from mentors?
A: Yes! On Saturday you and your team will have mentor meetings. The organizing team will help you schedule those.
Q: Are there any prizes for Techstars Global Online Startup Weekend COVID-19?
A: TOP 20 teams worldwide will get selected by Techstars. Top 5 teams will be awarded 10k USD to pursue implementation.
That being said, make sure you do not miss out on this opportunity!
- Get your ticket -> https://bit.ly/SWRomaniaRegister
2. Submit your idea -> https://bit.ly/SWRomaniaIdeaSubmit
3. Share with friends -> https://bit.ly/SWRoOnline2020
