I Love Alliteration - TH3 @ YBI

Tomorrow at three, there will be a presentation at the YBI on liquid crystal technology by AlphaMicron CEO Dr. Bahman Taheri. Its applications include digital lens eyewear, market-ready fashion, auto dimming mirrors and electronic shutters. Indeed, every Third Thursday at Three (TH3) at the YBI, you can catch an innovative program. Here's the schedule:

March 20th

Ohio Aerospace Institute’s Dr. Michael Heil will discuss the future of the aerospace industry in Ohio and opportunities for the state’s manufacturers, universities and federal laboratories. OAI supports the aerospace industry through research and technology development, education and training, and networking. Learn what opportunities exist for Mahoning Valley companies and organizations!

April 17th

David Karpinski, Vice President of Technology Innovation, NorTech, will present the Innovation Accelerator, a program designed to help small and mid size manufacturers develop innovative solutions and ideas. Developed in conjunction with MAGNET, the program includes monthly programs led by innovation experts, peer groups for networking and idea exchange, and innovation guides which connect companies with other resources to spur innovation and growth.

Contact:
Julie Michael Smith, Chief Development Officer
Youngstown Business Incubator
241 Federal Plaza West, Youngstown, OH 44503
jmsmith@ybi.org 330-259-7644

Ambassador YOU

I've been reconnecting lately with high school dorm hallmates, music camp cabinmates, even a cousin that I'm meeting for dinner next time I'm in DC.

This is the power of social networking. Through Facebook and LinkedIn, I'm even finding connections to people I've heard about and never met.

It's said that who you know is of primary importance. That's why these tools are so valuable in reinforcing and nurturing those connections. Likewise, how do you stay in front of those whom you wish to influence or just keep in contact with? You need to find a way to broadcast yourself. If you haven't yet found a medium that gives voice to your muse, have you tried blogging?

Think about creating a blog. It doesn't have to be profound or win an award. But put your thoughts down, whether silly or serious, and state your views. Even if you focus on a particular topic (hint: Youngstown), don't restrict yourself to just that. Everyone likes and needs an occasional diversion, and if you also provide that, they'll be even more grateful for the focus you apply to your main theme.

Blogging is an opportunity to stand up and do something without actually getting off the couch, if that's where you're most comfortable. The Youngstown Business Incubator is planning soon to host an informational session on blogging and podcasting and the like. I'll keep you posted as plans develop. There's no need to wait for that to get started, but it is intended to be a resource to help you get more comfortable with the format.

Be an ambassador for something you care about, even if it's just yourself. Open up a bit, and let people see what's inside--what you really care about. Chances are you'll find some kindred spirits and expand your world in the process. Your who-you-know will increase by who knows you until you're a you-know-who!

O, the green wothe botheth

Can anyone source the title? It's from my favorite novel, and no you can't Google it!

The word of the day is GREEN. Why? The Youngstown Business Incubator's newest portfolio company, GreenEnergyTV, provides in essence a free online TV station devoted to renewable energy projects.

In the very short time that it has been up, videos have been uploaded to the site by GE, Google, Yahoo, the United Nations, Penn State University, the US Department of Energy, Johnson & Johnson as well as from just individuals themselves.

I sing the YBI electric

I was treated today by Jim Cossler to a tour of the Youngstown Business Incubator. If you still have any doubts that good things are happening in Youngstown, then you need to hear about the YBI.

Jobs. National and international revenue streams. Serious profits. Innovation. Seriously impressive. And the place couldn't have a better pitchman. Jim is practiced at wowing visitors with his tour. I was likewise wowed.

The incubator clearly does a remarkable and invaluable job nurturing and leveraging its portfolio companies--including now-veteran Turning Technologies, positioned-for-explosive-growth Softek and secret-weapon Zethus Software--providing all the physical and technical resources needed to run a company and serving as a powewrhouse international network of contacts and expertise.

Jim says as the YBI gets exposure, he gets resumes from across the country from former Youngstowners longing to return and grateful to see there are opportunities being created. I related that my wife and I decided to move back when we finally realized that all the stories we told each other were about the people and places of Youngstown and our good times there. It's a singular place with a unique history and uncommon people in distinctive communities.

Now, forward this to your friends who know Youngstown, and tell them there are jobs coming here they can return to. Youngstown has been home to the best and brightest the world has to offer, and we're still here and welcoming more!