When you travel, do you hope to truly experience the heart of a new locale? To get a glimpse of what makes it, and its residents tick? If you’re like most travelers, this is in fact the purpose of your trip or, at least a pleasant byproduct. There’s many ways to “live like a local” in Savannah. Each Wednesday morning, there’s a very special opportunity.
Just outside the historic district, in the Creators’ Foundry, more than fifty locals gather every Wednesday at 9am to hear two entrepreneurs present their startup companies and to help these emerging businesses flourish.
Attendees gather to gain insights on a stimulating and ever changing range of endeavors, from the latest developments in image stabilization to knowledge of patented mosquito control methods to innovative methods to use the library.
After showcasing their latest business concepts, early stage startup, or new challenge in six quick minutes, the presenting entrepreneurs (those referenced above are Aetho, Green Bug, and Koios) engage with attendees, fielding questions and absorbing suggestions for nearly 20 minutes.
Don’t think you’ll have anything to contribute to the discussion? No immediate ideas about mosquito control, marketing strategies, video technology or attracting capital? Think again. You’ll likely surprise yourself.
You’ll learn that college students, former executives, relocating professionals, or career-changing native Savannahians all have great ideas, suggestions and advice to contribute. You’ll leave amazed at the creativity, the constructive feedback, and the inspiration you’ll get in just an hour. By 10am you’ll be back out on the beautiful historic squares, hopping on a horse-drawn carriage for a tour about town. Unless you linger with a new business partner over one more cup!
More than any selfie you snap that day, the energy, local coffee (ours is from PERC), and the beauty of Savannah’s community life will linger with you.
What is this magical Wednesday morning event? It’s 1 Million Cups Savannah (1MCSav) and it’s part of a free, national program designed to educate, engage, and connect entrepreneurs at every level. Developed by the Kauffman Foundation, Savannah’s 1MC chapter started in January 2015 and quickly mushroomed into a highly visible connector for presenters, accelerators, funders, and most important, community feedback.
If you’re in Savannah for a short visit or to explore a new hometown, 1 Million Cups is a great way to see a glimpse of Savannah’s future (certainly more than a ghost tour!). So break out of the box and live like a local while you’re here. The coffee’s brewing and we hope you’ll join us one Wednesday--or each Wednesday--at 1 Million Cups Savannah. We’re at 415 West Boundary Street and there’s plenty of parking.