Google Startup Weekend is big opportunity for entrepreneurs

Take a look at a small, mid-size or even a large company and you will find a person or group of individuals who started with an idea.

In March, this community may see a future success story as the Google Startup Weekend is held at Codefi in Cape Girardeau.

This is the first time the event will be held here. During 54 hours March 13 through 15, innovators will pitch ideas, work in groups, organize a presentation to bring before a judge and gain input from successful entrepreneurs. Dr. James Stapleton, co-founder of Codefi, told the Southeast Missourian it's designed for those who have an idea but have not pursued it.

Winners will receive $3,000 worth of service via Codefi, additional support from local entrepreneurs and an opportunity to participate in the 1ST50K competition in June.

You can read more online at semissourian.com in a story by Erin Ragan. More information and links to purchase tickets can be found online at up.co/communities/usa/cape-girardeau or codefiworks.com.

Entrepreneurship is key to the economic engine of our economy. Not only do the entrepreneurs find their own employment, but also, many times, these businesses provide jobs for others.

This is an exciting opportunity for Southeast Missouri. Thank you to Codefi, the Cape Girardeau Area Chamber of Commerce and The Bank of Missouri for their sponsorship.

We look forward to hearing some breakthrough ideas.