Startup Idea Workshop

Build your plan in one night, then pitch the next!

You’ve had the idea. You’ve noodled on it in the shower, while you’re taking the dog on a walk, maybe even drafted a note on your phone. But you haven’t done anything with it yet. Now is the time! The Startup Idea Workshop is a free, 2-hour hands-on workshop for technologists and aspiring founders who are ready to stop thinking and start doing. This fast-moving session will take you from raw idea to a live pitch in just one evening. No business background required. No polished slide decks. Just your idea and two hours of focused work. What You’ll Do Using a simplified startup framework (think: business plan without the fluff), you’ll: Define your idea — the problem you’re solving, your solution, and who would actually pay for it Pressure test your thinking with structured exercises and real-time feedback Shape a 2-minute pitch you’ll be ready to deliver the very next night This is hands-on, fast-moving, and designed to get you unstuck. What Happens Next Completing the Innovation Sprint gets you a spot on stage at the TCNewTech Bar Napkin Pitch — a public pitch night hosted at Kilkenny's the following evening (Tuesday, 5–7pm). You’ll deliver your 2-minute pitch to a live audience competing for a $100 audience-choice prize. The Bar Napkin Pitch is open to the public, so bring your people! Who Should Come Technologists with a startup idea they haven’t acted on yet Builders who want to test a concept before investing serious time or money Early-stage founders looking for a fast, low-stakes way to validate their thinking Curious professionals ready to take their first step into entrepreneurship Spots are limited. If you’ve been waiting for a sign to finally do something with your idea, here it is! About 20Fathoms Based in Traverse City, 20Fathoms is a nonprofit organization and the hub for entrepreneurship and innovation in Northwest Michigan. The 20Fathoms team works with entrepreneurs of all stages and industries, and also offers specialized services to meet the unique needs of technology-focused startups. Programs include startup education, business coaching, TCNewTech pitch competitions, access to capital, a vibrant coworking space, and general resources and support. For more information visit: https://20fathoms.org/