Growing an IT Business From Start-up to Exit: Real life advice on becoming a full-time entrepreneur

Many entrepreneurs question when to leave a comfortable day job in order to devote full attention to a startup business. Greg Pugh will be discussing his experience starting and then exiting from an IT business and the challenges that came along with being a full-time entrepreneur. Michael Bowers will share his experience and input as the District Consortium Director of the Small Business Development Center. Join us to learn about the many important aspects of this career decision. Also enjoy a continental breakfast while networking with other aspiring entrepreneurs.

The event is free but registration is required.

 Agenda:

7:30 am     Registration and Networking (a continental breakfast will be provided)

8:00 am     Introduction and Program

9:00 am     Q & A and networking

9:30 am     Adjourn 

 Discussions Points include:

• Are my personal finances ready for the jump? What about health benefits?
• Is my new business opportunity far enough along?
• What challenges exist today for new IT firms and how do I overcome these?
• What strategies should be implemented today that will lead to a successful exit?

Presenter's Bio: 

Greg Pugh is a serial entrepreneur and founded Integrated Mobile in January, 2004. In 2006 Integrated Mobile was awarded the TechColumbus TOPCAT award for "Best Start Up" and the American Business Awardfor "Best New IT Service in America." Integrated Mobile was sold to the Enhanced Equity Group of New York in 2007 and to Broadsouce of Atlanta in 2010. While at Integrated Mobile Greg Pugh held various positions including CEO, COO, and SVP of Product Development. Greg has twice been named a regional finalist for the Ernst and Young Entrepreneur of the Year award and has been named to Business First’s 40 under 40 in Central Ohio.　

In February, 2011 Greg Pugh joined TechColumbus as Director of IT Commercialization. In his current role Greg is a mentor and coach to IT start ups in Central Ohio. Greg works with entrepreneurs to increase their probability of success as well as identifies the most promising start ups as investment opportunities. Before joining TechColumbus and the success of Integrated Mobile, Greg held multiple business development roles for Columbus based IT companies. Greg began his career as a High School Physics Teacher.　

Michael Bowers has served as the District Consortium Director of the Ohio Small Business Development Center since 2002. He holds a Bachelor’s degree from The University of North Alabama, with majors in Economics and Finance and a Master’s degree from The Ohio State University in Public Administration. Given his extensive background in the investment space, he helps prepare entrepreneurs to seek and obtain equity financing. The Ohio SBDC provides business advising and consulting services at "No Charge" to the entrepreneur as part of their relationship with the Small Business Administration and the State of Ohio.

Thank you to our sponsor and event host:

Since 1995, Revolution Group has been helping customers utilize technology to achieve their business goals. For growing, small and medium businesses, we offer comprehensive IT solutions, including managed technology services and IT project management. For manufacturers and mid-market businesses, we specialize in CRM and ERP consulting, implementation and integration. Our passion for technology and superior customer service make us your ideal technology partner.