The Boston Startup Bucket List: 10 Things you have to do as an Entrepreneur

1. Hear Bill Warner’s "Startup from the Heart"- Bill Warner, affectionately known by some as ‘The Godfather of Boston Startups’ gives an amazing talk about how you should build a business with true intentions that everyone should hear.

2. Attend a Venture Café session- As I already mentioned in a previous post there is no single regular event where you can depend on free drinks and good conversation. They usually host organizations that work on different initiatives so it’s definitely worth checking out their blog to see if next week is right for you.

3.  Work out of a co-working space- Being an entrepreneur can be a lonely and enduring journey. It’s in your best interest to work out of a co-working in the early stage and fortunately Boston has many to offer. Some, like Workbar, offer days where anyone can work out of the space for a day. Take advantage of those times and when events are held in the space to see if it’s the right fit for you.

4. Go to Voltage Coffee- Everyone knows how instrumental coffee shops can be to connect with people. Voltage Coffee in Kendall Square is by far the best “startup coffee house”. No matter the time of day you’re bound to see an entrepreneur having a meeting or hard at work there.

5.  Take an Intelligently class- If you haven’t already you’re missing out. Intelligently is a beacon in the Boston startup ecosystem by bringing in star talent to explain their process and engage with others struggling with the same problems.

6.  Work with Mass Challenge- Mass Challenge is the largest accelerator program and competition in the world. Whether you work with them as an intern, employee, entrepreneur, event organizer or mentor it’ll benefit you and the community.

7.  Attend Techstars Demo Day/ After Party- Getting a ticket to Techstars Demo Day can be difficult, but well worth the effort. The technologies are amazing and the progress the teams have is incredible. Then later at night the guys at Dartboston organize a kickass party that brings in the entire startup community.

8.  Mass TLC Unconference- Every entrepreneur, investor and startup employee under one roof discussing problems they’re having and sharing ideas to solve them. It’s the can’t miss event of the year. Hands down.

9.  Write a post on Bostinno – Bostinno has become one of the flagship local sources for innovation economy news. The best part is that almost anyone can contribute to their editorial. If it’s a well-received post you’ll probably get some free local buzz around it too!

10. Pay it Forward- The mantra of every Boston entrepreneur, coined by Matt Lauzon for #RubyRiot. As an employee, entrepreneur, investor or curious onlooker make sure to pay it forward. Find someone or something you can help and do so. No questions asked, no hidden agenda. Just because it’s that kind of attitude that makes for a successful ecosystem.