SparkNET Partner Jon Beschen’s Entrepreneurship Non-profit Featured in Villanova Ice

Frustrated by the lack of a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem in the suburbs? We were too, particularly since we have so much talent, energy, and resources here.

we started Liberty Valley Initiative as a way to help transform the region into an exciting environment where entrepreneurship truly flourishes. Some of the issues we’re looking to address include:

– Helping entrepreneurs find resources they need, build valuable connections, and find supportive mentors

– Helping investors find interesting and exciting startups to consider

– Helping service providers become more valuable business partners for startups – and enabling such connections

– Helping educate local government on the benefits of entrepreneurship and how they can help facilitate

– Helping connect individuals and teams into some of the hot incubators and accelerators like Walnut Street Labs 

These are just some of the areas in which we are looking to make a difference. What else would help you thrive? Walnut Street Labs  and let us know.

“On Wednesday January 28, I attended the Liberty Valley Initiative’s 4th MeetUp. The Liberty Valley Initiative is a MeetUp organization dedicated to developing a “vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem in the suburbs.” One of the group’s organizers, Anthony Gold, spoke about how the organizers were impressed by the level of activity in Philadelphia but felt that the suburbs lacked the infrastructure and critical mass despite having the ingredients of smart people, great schools, and available capital. Thus, Anthony Gold, Brian Dainis, Jonathon Beschen, and Mary Fuchs organized the Liberty Valley Initiative to try to spark engagement in entrepreneurial ventures in the suburbs through MeetUps where individuals of all experiences and resources can meet. This particular MeetUp was hosted by The Headroom, a share space where new ventures have 24/7 access, a business address for legal use, and can use any room 40 hours per month. Furthermore, The Headroom houses several resident experts whose skillsets are at the disposal of ventures in the space. The Headroom’s West Chester equivalent, Walnut Street Labs, was also represented at the event and boasts co-working space and events for startups among additional services.” – MJ Schanne