That’s why we took a look at San Diego’s startup community to find out how the lesser-known destination for entrepreneurship operates and what startup founders there think of it. Turns out, it’s a pretty awesome place for startups. Well, that’s if you’re ready for the San Diego experience. If you think the money meetings are happening in boardrooms and coffee shops, think again, as a margarita might be in your future. It’s not just the food that attracts investors to the city, San Diego has proven itself as a fertile environment for startup success and there are dozens of entrepreneurs to prove it. From the unique talent to the sense of camaraderie, San Diego offers a diverse range of opportunities and benefits that stand tall against its more popular counterparts in the state.
There Are Tons of Resources
Daniel Passov, President of Greek U, says there are so many resources and opportunities at your disposal:
Fellow Entrepreneurs Want You To Succeed
Passov says that the entrepreneurial community is very selfless and want others to succeed: Renne Catalano Gussman, Director of Business Development at San Diego Sport Innovators, says the entrepreneurs and executives who have found success want to share their knowledge with founders and mentor budding startups:
There’s Incredible Talent
Jurgen Schmerler, CEO of VerifiR, says there’s an extensive pool of talent that entrepreneurs can tap into: Jason Riggs, CEO of OSSIC, says the talent coming out of universities in and around San Diego are extraordinary: Matthew Veling, founder and COO of NumberBarn, says the employees really make each startup special: Jon Belmonte, co-founder and CEO of Spoutable, says they make for awesome teammates:
The City Is Evolving Rapidly
Smelko says the combination of low cost, hip culture, and sense of community make the city something special:
It’s Accessible and Fast-Paced
Lisa Bicker, co-founder of PartyKroo, says the fast-paced startup culture vibes well with how accessible fellow entrepreneurs and resources are on-demand:
The Weather and Environment Makes Life Easier
Jenn Harris, CEO of Street Swings, says the relaxing atmosphere the city’s location provides adds a relaxing element to the stress of running a startup: Evan Harris, Co-Founder and CEO of SD Equity Partners, says it’s important to take a little time out of work to enjoy the beauty and culture of the city:
It’s Easier To Make Mistakes and Learn From Them
Craig Cole, founder of Doppler, says San Diego gives you a wider space than most to fail gracefully and improve your business:
Funding Can Be Difficult
Daniel Magy, founder of CITADEL, says San Diego is the best place for his business, but that funding can be difficult to attain at times: Shaun Savage, founder and CEO of GoShare, says the only downside is that you might need to look elsewhere for funding: One thing is clear: San Diego is becoming a juggernaut for entrepreneurship and innovation. Read more about the San Diego startup ecosystem here on Tech.Co Photo: Flickr / peasap