uThinkTank was part of the inaugural 1 Semester Startup class, and has been actively tackling the problems first proposed by Dr. Metcalfe concerning the UT entrepreneurship ecosystem. Additionally, we have been a part of the NCIIA VentureLab, and have been endorsed by Larry Chiang. We are working in partnership with UT’s IC2.
Rob Adams and Bob Metcalfe clearly recognize the problem with spurring wealth creation within the university ecosystem as they have been addressing it with their New Venture Creation, Texas Venture Labs Practicum and One Semester Startup courses. While they have had a great deal of success with these initiatives, I believe we can take these to the next level by building a social network, business creation & funding platform for entrepreneurs. uThinkTank is an idea collaboratory and virtual incubator platform helping university students collaborate for ideation, team matchmaking, acquiring free professional help, funding, and getting educational resources in all things entrepreneurship. It will empower students to commercialize IP and turn their own ideas into successful companies. Undergraduates and graduate students who number around 5000 will benefit most from this platform that drives innovation and commercialization of ideas. Successful business people within the community, including subsidiaries of IC2 can use it to find promising students and companies to mentor or possibly take in. Members of CTAN and other investment organizations will also have one more place to review companies and watch for up to date developments. Business Model – Our online platform will be sustained by lead generation using an advertising model. Additionally, to keep members active, a form of freemium will be available. Members will either be active within the community, or pay a fee to stay on after a certain amount of time.
Management Team
Jonathan Van – Since before 1 Semester Startup, I have been researching the entrepreneurship ecosystem. I am relentlessly resourceful. As CEO, I see that it is my mission to set the strategic vision and give my team all the tools necessary to be successful. I find the best options possible, and my team executes. I am committed to watch the entrepreneurship and innovation ecosystem develop and grow.
Nick Spiller – Soon after Nick heard Dr. Metcalfe speak about the issues regarding setting up a thriving entrepreneurship ecosystem in Austin, Nick went to work hosting the first uThinkTank symposium to gather entrepreneurially minded students . Simply put, Nick delivers.
Matt King – He has an eye for what works and what does not. After spending an entire semester working on designing and implementing social media strategies to enhance uThinkTank’s online presence, Matt is eager to develop uThinkTank to its fullest.
For more details please call me at 2142801589 or email JonathanHuangVan@gmail.com
UThinkTank 