Why are tech entrepreneurs moving to Boise?
I meet a lot of people these days that are moving to Boise to start their next tech business. I recently asked s good friend, Dave Clemons, President of LearnKey why he is doing business here in Boise. Here’s his response:
This is an honest opinion from an entrepreneur who needs a support
system to be successful in launching and scaling a business. I thought
what I would offer you is a basic outline of the points I have been
experiencing here in Boise.
1. Boise is a very social community - unlike many larger markets, Boise
continues to have that feeling that people are friendly both in the
neighborhoods we live in and in the business community. Its not
uncommon for people to reach out as a stranger and just ask - “who are
you and what do you do”. This has given me a chance to know what to say
what I’m involved with in 15 secs …or even 30 secs … if its
appropriate. I count my lucky stars for the connections I have made
here and friend set that just stay involved in the community.
2. Two degrees of contact - I believe everyone is only two degree away
from meeting whom ever they need to meet - no matter who the contact
for what ever cause you are part of / profit - non profit - I have done
both and fine people make time to meet with you and follow up to
continue the relationship.
3. Referred business - It seems once you are in side the circle of your
choice, the reference model works extremely well - what I find works is
asking ” who along with your self … should I be talking too?”
4. Follow up in a timely and professional manner - everyone welcomes yo with open arms - lets keep it that way !
5. Test your “Big Idea” right here in Boise! - Push Mobile Media - is
our newest venture - founded here in Boise. I have found the business
here to help define the “scope” of what is the business need of
services that we provide right here in our home back yard. It is
amazing to me I do not have to travel across the country to speak to
quality companies who provide excellent feedback about usage and
product design and capabilities.
6. Use technology to involve your focus here in Boise - I started
Boise Graphic Design Group 145 members today - the fastest growing
social professional group in Boise within the design space. We were
even granted the Adobe User Group Title and Best Buy Sponsors our group
. You can build groups within a year if you plan correctly and use
technology to help you plan - communicate and inspire. http://graphicdesign.meetup
Dave’s point about “two degrees” is very true here. I’ve only met about a dozen tech entrepreneur-type people here and I already feel like I’m very connected. I wonder if Boise could use that as a selling point…
I have lived in Boise since last June, moving here from a larger market. In January 08 we launched a new business named VioletsOffice.com to provide small business accounting/back office support. We created a simple website, launched to our friends and family, specifically in Boise just to get the word out and feed back. In only a few connections and weeks, we are seeing a positive revenue trend.
Boise provides good social networking opportunities for any small business. Support groups designed to help me refine my skills especially through the Boise Chamber is a great place to learn and connect.