The Venture Forum
“The Venture Forum (VF) has traditionally been a volunteer managed non-profit that supports startup companies in the greater Worcester region and did not have a physical location. This situation changed in the past 18 months and the VF hired me for the role of Executive Director and established its office at WorcLab in mid 2021. Having a physical presence at WorcLab was particularly helpful coming out of COVID as it allowed the VF to more easily offer programming and events for its constituents at a reasonable cost and to host planning meetings in the conference rooms. In particular, the VF used WorcLab for training and mentoring sessions for its signature event, the 5 Minute Pitch Competition. The close proximity to the other entrepreneurs who use WorcLab has allowed the VF to gain insights into their needs and to develop further programming to support those and other startup companies. Having access to the facilities at WorcLab will allow the VF to further develop its programs to support early stage startups and maintain its position as the gateway to entrepreneurship in Central Massachusetts.” - Zach