Austin Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Enrichment Experience

Established in 2023, the Austin Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Enrichment Experience provides participants with the skills, knowledge, and best practices to support promising startups in developing and scaling their businesses with an introduction to the robust and innovative Austin startup ecosystem. The program consists of workshops in entrepreneurship with a transfer of methodology in technology commercialization, an Austin ecosystem tour, and connecting cross-cultural business and tech communities to advance innovation and collaboration.

Program components include:

• Providing access to workshops in entrepreneurship and innovation to transfer methodology in technology commercialization.
• Connecting participants with ecosystem partners in Austin for advice and support.
• Promoting understanding of U.S. markets, resource navigation, and investment opportunities.
• Providing participating startups access to market opportunities and expertise.
• Connecting business and tech communities to advance innovation and collaboration.

This enrichment program can be customized for international startups, universities, and government officials aiming to expand their entrepreneurial ecosystems to promote early-stage startups. For 12 Thai universities, the weeklong program was designed to equip incubator/accelerator managers with the skills, knowledge, and best practices needed to enhance their product offerings for promising startups. Additionally, four Japanese startups had the chance to engage in foundational business training and visit Austin's vibrant ecosystem, helping them further develop their businesses. From six Panamanian participating in the program, one startup secured a $100,000 investment and partnership with an Austin-based Incubator.