Startups2Students reverses the traditional dynamic of recruitment and job fairs by putting the work and pressure on the company needing to hire. Created in 2016 by HackCU, Startup2Students is now being organized jointly by HackCU and CU Boulder's Innovation & Entrepreneurship Initiative. On October 19th, they brought 20 of Boulder/Denver’s most promising start-up companies, and 150 of CU Boulder's students to the Idea Forge for a pitch and networking event designed to connect motivated CU students with the startup community.
The structure is simple, yet different; flipping the traditional career fair on its head. Instead of having students go from table to table they have the company pitch the audience on why they are the best place to work. The room was filled with enthusiasm and spirit as each startup talked about the uniqueness of their venture and vision.
This event was a significant success on both sides, all the while challenging the status quo and competing for top talent. Startups are thrilled to participate because it gives them direct access to innovative CU Boulder students who are pushing boundaries and already start-up aware. Not to mention, there have been multiple hires since this event’s inception. Startup2students is a considerable opportunity for the students as well as it connects them with opportunities in fast-paced, challenging environments with passionate leaders.
Does this sound like an event that you would like to attend? Startups2students will be hosting again for the Spring semester. Click here for information on the Spring Startups2students event.