1 Million Cups

Have you ever considered presenting at 1 Million Cups (1MC?) If you’re an entrepreneur, presenting can help share your idea, give you the opportunity to receive valuable feedback, and practice talking about your business in front of a live and safe environment. 

1MC: Caffeinating Entrepreneurs Nationwide Every Wednesday ← how excellent is that tagline?

Based on the notion that entrepreneurs discover solutions and engage with their communities over a million cups of coffee, the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation developed 1 Million Cups in 2012—a free program designed to educate, engage and inspire entrepreneurs around the country. Through the power of volunteers, 1 Million Cups has grown to more than 160 communities.

As a program of the Kauffman Foundation, 1MC works with entrepreneurs, empowering them with the tools and resources to break down barriers that stand in the way of starting and growing their businesses. Mr. Kauffman believed it was a fundamental right for anyone who had a big idea to be able to bring it to life—and we’re here to fulfill that mission.

Each of the 163 communities nationwide is run slightly differently but all will ask how the 1MC community can help your idea grow. You’re allowed roughly 6 minutes to talk about your business or idea then the floor opens for question and dialog. Using a few slides #(lessismore) to help keep on track is helpful. While presenting it helps to be vulnerable and talk about pieces often shared privately. The attendees are there to help and that has been true in our experiences. 

1 Million Cups – Mankato hosts out of the College of Business Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship. The room is large and has a nice screen for your slides. The people were very kind and friendly and asked wonderful questions. They even took a video of the first section which was unique.

You’re welcome to watch as TJ talks about ClipDifferent.

The slides:

Thank you 1 Million Cups Mankato for such a positive experience.