The Startup of the Year program is a search for the most innovative startups around the world. The most recent program is culminating at INNO Conference, a new innovation conference hosted in New Orleans that stands at the intersections of technology, corporate innovation, entrepreneurship, and community. INNOconf will take place in between the two weekends of Jazz Fest, April 29 through May 2.
“We know that innovation stems from everyone with the ‘oomph’ and courage to take that leap, which is why we scout far and wide in order to find the best startups ranging in industry with diverse leadership to invite to apply to Startup of the Year.”
Ten of the 36 finalists hail from New Orleans, with the rest from locations throughout Louisiana and the U.S. The full list of finalists is available here.
INNO is hosting the first ever Startup Night NOLA Showcase, a free event and a chance to mingle with startups, investors, and the greater New Orleans community. The top five finalists will be competing in a live pitch competition at the showcase.
INNO has also partnered with local entrepreneurial organizations to offer free events around the city, including:
AWS and Loyola Hackathon – Monday 4/29: Do you have what it takes to solve a problem for the city of Baton Rouge using the power of programming…in just 24 hours? Join AWS and Loyola for a 24-Hour Civic Hackathon, including a full lineup of city planning experts and a product development workshop! Register here for the Civic Hackathon on Monday, April 29.
Launch Pad’s 10th Anniversary Party, Thursday 10:30 am: It’s a celebration: Launch Pad is turning 10! What began with the idea to build community and catalyze the growth of New Orleans’ entrepreneurial ecosystem has expanded into new cities and helped businesses raise hundreds of millions in capital. Join them for Bloody Marys and mimosas, and expand your network on Thursday, May 1.
“INNO aims to restore a well-curated space for entrepreneurs, corporate innovators, and technology professionals to make meaningful connections, collaborate, and find the partners, tools, and resources that they need,” shared organizers. “We are also working to ensure an engaging four days of activities, events, and impact. And we want the New Orleans entrepreneurial ecosystem there.”
Take advantage of a special 3-for-1 ticket offer by following this link.