SAN ANTONIO - (Business Wire) An exciting opportunity for early stage technology companies and investors, the Idea Finishing School debuted today in San Antonio. Culminating from the vision of local entrepreneurs Dean McCall, Rudy De La Garza and Linda Mills, the Finishing School was created to identify and foster growth in high-potential technology companies. The School will also pair these entrepreneurs with investors interested in finding the best technology investments. The concept of the Idea Finishing School arose from a need for investors to find high potential technology ideas early and also to help entrepreneurs realize their dreams.
"It's really just our vision of helping investors and technology entrepreneurs be more successful. We help investors to invest technology dollars wisely, and remove hurdles that get in the way of great ideas," said Dean McCall.
The Idea Finishing School (IFS) is located in the San Antonio Technology Center (SATC), a facility that promotes high-tech growth by providing an environment for technology-related companies to thrive through its unique infrastructure and design.
IFS will provide approximately $60,000 of critical services and support to early stage companies during a three- to six-month period.
"Candidates for the program are scrutinized closely by the IFS executive team to identify potential market disrupters, valid technology and solid financial structure. Each selected candidate is reviewed by our 16-plus advisors and accredited investors," said Rudy De La Garza.
IFS' services include office space, professional and administrative services. But most importantly, at the conclusion of the school, IFS entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to present their polished and groomed products/services to receptive, pre-screened investors.
"For too long, the playbook for tech startups said they should move north to Austin. The Idea Finishing School is here to change that mindset. IFS is providing the much-needed support to startups to get beyond the idea stage and become real businesses," said Dirk Elmendorf, Rackspace Hosting founder and IFS advisor.
San Antonio Startups Video about the Idea Finishing School
(http://www.sanantoniostartups.com/2009/08/26/read-to-launch-in-san-antonio-ideagins-finishing-school-getting-great-ideas-to-the-finishing-line/)
Idea Finishing School, San Antonio
Linda Mills, 210-618-2836
linda@ideafinishingschool.com
www.ideafinishingschool.com
