The idea of an intelligent electricity network is being promoted by many as a way of dealing with the increasing problems of global warming, energy independence and electric grid resilience. This so called “smart grid” will create opportunities for new technologies and businesses which will emerge to satisfy the demands for improved communications, smart appliances, distributed power generation, demand response, transportation electrification and many more applications.

To help entrepreneurs and innovators in the Portland area learn more about smart grid opportunities and collaborate with others the TiE Oregon is hosting an event with industry experts and capital providers who have an interest in growing smart grid businesses.

Panelists include:

• Bill Campbell Principal at Equilibrium Capital • Bobby Kandaswamy, Investment Director, Intel Capital • Jeff Hammarlund, Adjunct Associate Professor and Senior Research Fellow at PSU's Mark O. Hatfield School of Government and the Executive Leadership Institute.

By attending this event you will hear about the policies shaping the smart grid movement, learn about various technology and application opportunities and meet others who are already working in the smart grid or have an idea that could turn into a new business.

Gives entrepreneurs a crash course in how to build a ClimateTech* Startup. 45Camp JumpStart provides a concentrated 3-day weekend with training, mentorship and connections to let you explore the idea of building a ClimateTech Startup. You’ll also see examples of VertueLab Entrepreneurs who are making it in ClimateTech. VertueLab is a ClimateTech non-profit that is focused on helping Pacific Northwest ClimateTech entrepreneurs achieve their goals.

Ideas come from anywhere, and individuals with those ideas often don’t have the entrepreneurial awareness, tools, or guidance to get started in their exploration. Also, entrepreneurship is new in many communities and they need a jumpstart to gain the right knowledge and connections to move forward.

The best way to discover, learn, and explore entrepreneurship is through a hands-on approach and meeting others that are building technology and can explain by showing. JumpStart Weekends are designed to be a comfortable space to gather curious individuals and introduce them to tools and methods they can use to explore their ideas and get instant feedback and mentorship, all packaged over a weekend.

Although it's in our mission to address the impacts of climate change, entrepreneurship is for everyone. We want to increase access to entrepreneurship, and provide the tools and knowledge to everyone so that we are all part of the solution. So no prior knowledge of ClimateTech is required, all you need is an idea and the curiosity to know more and explore in a weekend of fun, we encourage you to apply!