Feeling disconnected from a professional community, I volunteered for Startup Boston. From the moment I joined, it was clear I had made the right choice. I joined a vibrant ecosystem of like-minded individuals who shared my passion for innovation and collaboration.
When I came on board last January, the team was already full steam ahead planning every detail for Startup Boston Week 2024. The year flew by and all of a sudden the big week was here. There was so much enthusiasm and connection-building leading up to the event, I was excited to volunteer for two days and fortunate to work alongside my fellow volunteers.
The venue overflowed with an energetic spirit and uplifting atmosphere that was almost palpable. I overheard old connections reunite and witnessed new relationships form. No matter their industry, role, or funding stage, every attendee shared something in common– eagerness to learn and embrace unique growth opportunities.
Networking at Startup Boston Week
In a virtual-dominated world, building relationships face-to-face was a breath of fresh air. Networking often feels daunting—especially for us introverts—but I forged genuine connections driven by curiosity about each other’s career journeys.
I introduced myself to strangers in the morning, and by lunchtime, I established bonds and even friendships. I checked in job seekers at Thursday’s buzzing career fair and welcomed guests to our closing celebration, where startups showcased their missions over casual conversations and pizza.
My Favorite Sessions of Startup Boston Week 2024
When I wasn’t volunteering, I weaved in and out of expert panels that covered a broad spectrum of subjects. As a first-time founder, I’ve become sharper and more informed in many areas. 30 pages of notes later, I felt like a sponge soaking up expert knowledge.
Here are a few highlights:
Work Smarter: Legal Bootcamp for Founders - I received an education in ownership structures, intellectual property considerations, and company governance.
Know the Hand You’re Dealt: The Ins and Outs of Term Sheets - this session taught me how to navigate prospective investors’ term sheets and better understand expectations and best practices throughout an investor engagement.
Getting Past Go: Bringing Your Startup Out of the Idea Stage - was a very timely listen and an incredible source of inspiration for me at this stage in my founder journey. This panel offered me guidance in the early stages as I listened to successful founders talk through their journeys and shed light on how they chartered their entrepreneurial paths.
The Startup Boston team will be adding video content from the event on YouTube. If you're interested in the sessions listed above, and others, be sure to subscribe for updates!
I was incredibly excited as I walked into my first Startup Boston Week, confident I knew what to expect. However, the conference exceeded even my highest hopes. Whether you are startup curious, toying around with an idea, growing your team, or even raising your next round, this conference warmly welcomes all of you. I encourage everyone to take the leap– you never know what relationships are waiting on the other side of the door.
Check out Startup Boston’s event calendar which is jam-packed with events and opportunities to build your network. Who knows? You might recognize some familiar faces at Startup Boston Week 2025!
Interested in volunteering for Startup Boston Week 2025? Fill out this form and we'll be in touch!
About the Author: Deanna Defelice is an accomplished professional in the CPG sector. She is well-experienced with domestic and international supply chains and direct-to-consumer business operations. With a passion for mission-driven brand building, strategy, and innovation, Deanna's current focus is on the FemTech space.
Comments