Neel Mehta
Tim Chi, founder and CEO of online software marketplace WeddingWire, will headline the fireside chat portion at the summer 2015 edition of the Big Idea CONNECTpreneur Forum, an event for venture capitalists and other business leaders.
Chi, also a founder of Blackboard, started WeddingWire in 2007 and the Chevy Chase, Md.-based company now operates in 14 countries as a connection between engaged couples and local vendors ahead of their wedding dates.
An “Early Bird” discount is available to registrants through Wednesday for the event, which will take place at the Tysons Corner Marriott.
Tien Wong, CEO of event sponsors Tech 2000 and appnetic, told GovCon Executive Chi will describe to the audience how he conceived the idea behind WeddingWire, how the company raised money from angel investors and other backers such as Martha Stewart Omnimedia and other efforts to raise institutional capital for the firm.
“We are delighted to have one of DC Tech’s hot rising stars in the house to talk about WeddingWire’s incredible growth and success, and to share his energy around entrepreneurship, technology and leadership,” Wong said.
The forum will also feature a five-person panel of investors who will discuss current trends in early-stage investing and offer their outlooks for the near-term future.
Panelists include:
- Joe Burkhart of Saratoga Investment Co.
- Leslie Jump of Startup Angels
- John May of New Vantage Group
- Hank Torbert of RLMcCall Capital
- Sever Totia of Edison Partners
Seven early-state companies will also present at the event.
