Maerz, Weisberg and Milne to Headline Accelerate DSM
GREATER DES MOINES, IA — Square One DSM today announced plans for the second annual Accelerate DSM event, held on Wednesday, May 17 at the Iowa Events Center. The event is produced in collaboration with 1 Million Cups and the Technology Association of Iowa.
Keynote speakers throughout the day include:
- Torey Maerz, Founder of Rocket Referrals, which specializes in developing intuitive and effective software for businesses. Maerz will share his thoughts on what any business — from a venture-backed startup to an established brand — can learn from a bootstrapped company. Rocket Referrals started with two people, $9,000 and no investor support. Four years later, the staff has quadrupled and the company has continued turning a profit since day one.
- Cayla Weisberg, Partner at InvestHER Ventures. Weisberg invests in emerging technology startups led by women. Weisberg will speak on raising capital in the Midwest. Weisberg has been an entrepreneur since age 17. She worked for one of the nation’s “100 Fastest-Growing Companies” early in her career and has since led business development initiatives for two fast-growing tech companies at a venture capital incubator.
- Ben Milne, Founder and CEO of Dwolla, a digital payment network startup that has experienced strong growth. Milne will speak on accelerating a funded high-growth company.
In addition to the keynote addresses, the day will begin with 1 Million Cups and feature roundtable sessions. Programming throughout the day will be focused on how to accelerate business growth. The day will end with a TechBrew sponsored by the Technology Association of Iowa.
“Accelerate DSM is a great opportunity for entrepreneurs from throughout Central Iowa to learn from each other and from experts from all parts of the startup ecosystem,” said Mike Colwell, Executive Director of Entrepreneurial Initiatives at the Greater Des Moines Partnership. “Attendees will have the chance to make worthwhile business connections and learn lessons that will help them grow their business.”
Additional speakers will be announced in the coming days. Learn more about the event and register here.
About the Greater Des Moines Partnership
The Greater Des Moines Partnership is the economic and community development organization that serves Greater Des Moines (DSM), Iowa. Together with 23 Affiliate Chambers of Commerce, more than 6,100 Regional Business Members and more than 330 Investors, The Partnership drives economic growth with one voice, one mission and as one region. Through innovation, strategic planning and global collaboration, The Partnership grows opportunity, helps create jobs and promotes DSM as the best place to build a business, a career and a future. Learn more at DSMpartnership.com.