The End-to-End Accelerator for Oregon Founders & Startups

$582.5M In Capital Raised &
3 Initial Public Offerings

35 Exits Netting Over $1.42B In Shareholder Value

22 Years of Accelerating &
23 Classes to Date

222 Membership Companies
in 20 Industries

357 Founder Peer Mentors &
3 Member Chapters

0 Equity Taken &
0 Fees Charged

See All Metrics

Not Just An Accelerator.
Oregon's Startup Scalerator.

Starve Ups was Oregon's first startup accelerator, and is its only scalerator, which is defined as an end-to-end accelerator. Starve Ups was founded by founders and is solely made up of a community of startup founders and their membership companies.

Formed in October of 2000 the scalerator provides support for founders from inception to acquisition to scale membership companies through all three defining stages of the startup lifecycle, known as the Survive, Strive and Thrive stages.

In turn, founders in Starve Ups have the highest levels of success through scaling daily with the support of their hundreds of peer co-founders, who collectively provide proven peer mentoring, highly established networks, vetted strategic partnerships, direct investment and funding sources, and every possible startup resource available.

Starve Ups Stages

SURVIVE

SURVIVE the first 18 to 36 months where as many as 2/3 of all startups fail, and where the greatest mistakes are made, and the most time is wasted. This is the stage of the startup lifecycle where a good portion of founders seek out an accelerator and seed capital to launch their dream.

This is the stage where Starve Ups helps founders select their corporate structure, build prototypes and MVPs, recruit advisory boards, initially raise funds and/or run crowd funding campaigns, garner early stage vendors, make initial hires, build go to market strategies, etc.

STRIVE

STRIVE into greater sustainability, profitability and expansion, when interest, investment and support tend to slow down and the models take hold. This stage of the startup lifecycle is generally in years 3 through 7, where the majority of founders raise significant rounds & build suitor relationships.

This is the stage where Starve Ups helps founders build upon their marketing strategies, sales processes and sales cycle management, VAR and partnership development, team building efforts, ongoing fundraising rounds, suitor relationship building efforts, advanced strategic development, etc.

THRIVE

THRIVE for their positive exit, IPO or existence strategy, and when our members turn into active investors, seasoned mentors, and close the startup circle. This is the stage of the startup lifecycle generally in years 7 through 12, and is where startups become brands & acquisition candidates.

This is the stage where Starve Ups helps membership companies build their overall exit strategy options, identify buyers, build investment banker relationships, build their value prop for being acquired/merged, and complete their transactions. Then, they work to become angel investors and support the next generation.

Unlike a conventional accelerator, this is not a short training course followed up by voluntary ‘alma mater’ and alumni-based support. It is a full-on, always-on, end-to-end, ‘whole business life cycle’ (and beyond) partnership, based on guaranteed mutual support. They even have a post-exit investment strategy.

- Innovation Investment Journal

A Game-Changing Approach

Over the past 22 years, Starve Ups membership companies have consistently, and exponentially, outperformed national averages for startup companies.

6x

More likely to stay in business

4x

More likely to secure funding

4.8x

The purchase price at exit

4x

More likely to exit

21x

Active participation by members

Interested in the Starve Ups Scalerator?

Join our newsletter for communications about our upcoming events and useful content for founders and investors.

We don’t invest in verticals,
we unite with peer founders

Each year we accept a new Class of companies to join our scalerator for zero cost and zero equity, only with the expectation they will pay their mentorship forward. We believe the most important factor in a startup’s success are the characteristics of its founders. While our member companies span 20 industries, all of our founders are united by three common traits:

A life that feels incomplete if they don't found their company

An all in dedication to their startup company’s success

A Pay It Forward approach to peer mentoring and life

Accepting Applications

Membership Companies

The scalerator of 223 Oregon-based startups, and their 357 founders, spans 20 industries and is comprised of 23 classes from 3 chapters.

A Cajun Life

Founders

Chris Fontenot

Overview

Great tasting authentic Cajun food and lifestyle products.

Class

Portland 2019

AboutUs
ACQUIRED

Exited

Merged/Acquired 2014 By Attensa Inc.

Founders

Ray King & Jay Westerdal

Overview

AboutUs is the wiki Internet domain directory.

Class

Portland 2010

Agaso

Founders

Todd Lincoln, David Specht

Overview

Agaso specializes in data-intensive web applications, e-commerce, online publishing, customer data collection, and online directories.

Class

Portland 2002

Agilyx
IPO ON OTCQX

Exited

Initial Public Offering 2021 On OTCQX

Founders

Kevin DeWhitt, Elizabeth DeWhitt

Overview

Agiliyx transforms waste plastic into refinery grade crude oil.

Class

Portland 2005

AirBlaster

Founders

Jesse Grandkoski, Travis Parker, Paul Miller 

Overview

AirBlaster designs products for snowboarders by snowboarders for the purpose of having fun.

Class

Portland 2005

AkeLex

Class

Portland 2001

Animosa

Founders

Jessica Southwick, Kate Blazar

Overview

Gear for Adventurous Women

Class

Eugene 2017

AppWEAR

Founders

Alan Miles

Overview

Heated garments that allow the user to remain warm and control their temperature with the AppWEAR app.

Class

Bend 2019

Appointlet

Class

Portland 2016

Arcimoto
IPO ON NASDAQ

Exited

Initial Public Offering 2017 On NASDAQ

Founders

Mark Frohnmayer

Overview

Arcimoto designs and manufactures the world's first Fun Utility Vehicle.

Class

Eugene 2010

AssetExchange
ACQUIRED

Exited

Acquired 2007 By FIS Inc.

Founders

Willie Koo & Frank Selker

Class

Portland 2000

Athletepath
ACQUIRED

Exited

Acquired 2016 By I Am Athlete LLC

Founders

David Embree

Overview

The world's first complete race platform powering the digital side of innovative races, registration through results.

Class

Portland 2010

Attensa

Class

Portland 2013

AudioName

Founders

Sheetal Dube

Class

Portland 2012

Aunt Fannie'€™s

Founders

Mat Franken

Overview

We Clean with Food.

Class

Portland 2017

BT Biotech

Founders

Andrew Tupper & Rob Batchelor

Class

Eugene 2014

BidRunners

Class

Portland 2000

Big Wake

Class

Portland 2001

Bike Friday

Overview

performance that packs

Class

Eugene 2016

BikeTrak

Founders

Kris Akins

Class

Portland 2011

Bird Seed
ACQUIRED

Exited

Acquired/Recap 2021 By Penrith & Coote

Founders

Ashley Chase

Overview

Organic and gluten free, lightly sweetened with honey Oregon-based granola.

Class

Bend 2019

Black Tonic

Founders

David Price, Philippe Blanc

Class

Portland 2009

BlanketBooster

Founders

Mark Tipperreiter

Overview

The world's first self-assembling blanket lift that creates a "tent for the toes" to relieve the pressure of bed covers on the feet.

Class

Portland 2012

Blue Dog Mead

Class

Eugene 2014

Blurble
ACQUIRED

Exited

Acquired 2016 By North Star Games LLC

Founders

Grant Bernard

Overview

The hilarious, fast-paced card game that is great for all ages and group sizes.

Class

Portland 2013

Brass Media
ACQUIRED

Exited

Acquired 2018

Founders

Bryan Sims & Steve Sims

Class

Portland 2008

Brazi Bites
ACQUIRED

Exited

Acquired/Recap 2018 By San Francisco Private Equity

Founders

Junea Rocha & Cameron MacMullin

Class

Portland 2015

BuddyUp

Founders

Brian Forrester

Class

Portland 2015

Bushel Box

Overview

Share the Savings

Class

Eugene

Candid Retail

Founders

Avery Bloom, Dave Lowensohn

Overview

Honest, actionable business intelligence for retailers.

Class

Portland 2018

Capsci Health
ACQUIRED

Exited

Acquired By Traffk Inc.

Founders

Chris Logan, Adam Greene & Randall Hansen

Class

Portland 2015

CartHook

Founders

Jordan Gal

Overview

Products built to make your ecommerce business more successful.

Class

Portland 2017

Cast Fits

Founders

Michelle Huggins

Overview

Creative cast covers that are the perfect solution to protect your clothes and cast all the while looking stylish.

Class

Bend 2019

Cedar Boat Works

Founders

Don Hollerich

Class

Portland 2015

CharlieCurls

Founders

Kris Akins

Overview

CharlieCurls Is A Compact, No-Heat Hair Curler.

Class

Portland 2018

ChinookBook

Founders

Nik Blosser

Class

Portland 2001

Cocacao

Founders

Michele Davis, Jeffrey Davis

Overview

A gluten free, paleo, vegan dark chocolate and coconut experience.

Class

Portland 2019

Cognitopia

Overview

Life management apps for people who see the world a little differently.

Class

Eugene 2015

Convertist

Overview

A universe of B2B leads at your fingertips

Class

Portland 2016

CoolerEmail
ACQUIRED

Exited

Acquired 2015 By GreenRope Inc.

Founders

Lars Helgeson

Class

Portland 2000

Core To Coeur

Founders

Madison Page, Dr. Anni Sanner, Derek Schloss

Overview

A heart based approach to exercise.

Class

Eugene 2019

Covered360

Founders

David Mullan

Overview

Cloud based software purpose built for cannabis.

Class

Bend 2019

Cowbucker
ACQUIRED

Exited

Acquired 2019 By Pacific Headwear Inc.

Founders

Derek Schloss

Overview

Kick Ass Hats. Better Adventures ™

Class

Eugene 2015

Cricket Flours

Overview

Cricket Flours crafts gourmet food products made from all natural and sustainable protein made from CRICKETS!

Class

Portland 2016

Crisproot

Founders

Angela & Hermanto Hidijat

Class

Portland 2006

DB Clay

Founders

Garett Stenson, Tyler Stenson, Jeremy Diggles

Class

Portland 2007

DIY Bar

Founders

Jason Gorske & Adam Gorske

Overview

DIY Bar is a craft workshop meets bar.

Class

Portland 2020

Date Night

Founders

David Embree

Overview

The DateNight app helps every couple discover and easily plan outstanding dates.

Class

Portland 2019

Dedicated Maps

Founders

Don Hollerich

Overview

Revolutionary, Real-Time Online Mapping

Class

Portland 2009

Dinner At Your Door
ACQUIRED

Exited

Acquired 2015 By Farm To Fit Inc.

Founders

Margot Feves

Class

Portland 2012

DirtLogic
ACQUIRED

Exited

Acquired 2021 By

Founders

Matt & Aimee Gebarowski

Overview

The grading experts for builders.

Class

Portland 2004

Dr. McGrath's

Founders

Juliette Fasset

Class

Portland 2015

Dune Sciences

Founders

Richard Geiger

Class

Eugene 2014

Dwellingo

Founders

Tommy Jedrzejczyk, Mark Roush

Overview

Scheduling and management software for real estate agents.

Class

Portland 2019

Dye Candy

Founders

Kathryn Madison

Overview

Color Your Way With Dye Candy.

Class

Portland 2020

DyscoverMe

Founders

Galen Mitterman

Overview

A better way to connect talent to opportunity.

Class

Eugene 2014

eROI

Founders

Ryan Buchanan

Class

Portland 2000

EcoZoom

Founders

Ben West, Amanda West, Phil Ferranto

Class

Portland 2012

Eleven
ACQUIRED

Exited

Acquired Divisionally 2016 By Uniguest Inc.

Founders

Josh Friedman & Andrew Yorra

Class

Portland 2003

Ella & Oak

Founders

Christine Callahan

Overview

An online bridal boutique for today’s plus size bride.

Class

Bend 2019

Elsapel
ACQUIRED

Exited

Acquired 2008 By Ellington Inc.

Founders

Juliette Fassett

Class

Portland 2007

Empower Bodycare

Founders

Trista Okel & Michele White

Overview

Empower - The Gold Standard for Transparency & Quality

Class

Portland 2020

Fadigear

Founders

Falco Freeman

Class

Portland 2009

FatEarth

Founders

Chris James & Chris Stringer

Overview

Sustainability solutions for our planet.

Class

Portland 2001

FIDO/Authentic Communication Systems

Founders

Dan Hodges

Overview

Mastermind communications platform to assess needs, perspective and opportunities via an anonymous knowledge base.

Class

Bend 2019

Financial Genome

Class

Portland 2015

Fire Brew

Founders

Valerie Roth

Overview

Artisanal health tonics that improve the body's systems.

Class

Portland 2018

Fit Kitchen Direct

Founders

Loren Castillo, Megan Benedict

Overview

Portland's own healthy meal prep and delivery service. Part chef, part nutritionist, always delicious.

Class

Portland 2017

Flatrock

Class

Portland 2002

Flexiworld

Founders

William Chang

Class

Portland 2001

4-Tell

Class

Portland 2013

FraudRX

Class

Portland 2002

Fungi For The People

Class

Eugene 2015

Gadget Trak/ActivTrak

Founders

Ken Westin

Overview

GadgetTrak helps prevent laptop theft and secures your mobile devices.

Class

Portland 2008

Gathrly

Overview

Enhancing brand with community relationships in a meaningful away

Class

Portland 2016

Gear FC

Class

Portland 2016

Genesi

Founders

Shana Gunson

Overview

Simple and all natural small batch skincare for every woman.

Class

Bend 2019

Genki-Su

Founders

Takako Shinjo & Judy Tan

Overview

The original Japanese drinking vinegar company.

Class

Portland 2013

Glimmer Technology

Founders

Vance Naegle, Cary Torkelson

Overview

Turning static images into 3D portals.

Class

Eugene 2018

Good Company

Founders

Dag Hinrichs, Josh Proudfoot, Josh Skov

Class

Eugene 2001

GoodPrints

Founders

Christian Rea, Tor Naerheim, Nate Kay, Jordan Sofro

Overview

The mission is simple. Good prints that do good.

Class

Bend 2019

Goodbeing

Founders

Aysia Wright

Class

Portland 2015

GreenRope

Overview

Take Command. Create Demand.

Class

Portland 2014

GrowlerFresh

Founders

Chris Maier

Overview

A growler cooling system, connected online to be a smarter, more efficient beer delivery system.

Class

Portland 2018

GruntWorks
ACQUIRED

Exited

Acquired 2015 By HouseHappy Inc.

Founders

Scott Fouser

Overview

GruntWorks is the conduit between property owners and consumers in the home services lead generation business.

Class

Portland 2013

HallSpot

Founders

Sean Thorne

Overview

Helps students save money at their favorite campus bars and restaurants.

Class

Eugene 2014

Handful

Founders

Jennifer Ferguson, Jody Filkins

Overview

Activewear for women, helping them grab life by the handful.

Class

Portland 2018

Heritage Laboratories

Founders

Kateigh Williams, Pabel Delgado

Overview

Holistic skin nutrition through a new form of ingestible skincare.

Class

Eugene 2018

Indow Windows

Class

Portland 2013

Innovative Dental Technologies

Class

Portland 2017

Invana

Founders

Michael Williamson

Overview

Automated inventory management.

Class

Portland 2019

Jive
IPO ON NASDAQ

Exited

Initial Public Offering 2011 On NASDAQ.

Founders

Bill Lynch, Matt Tucker & Dave Hersh

Overview

Jive is the leading provider of enterprise collaboration solutions and customer communities.

Class

Portland 2005

Journey Gym

Founders

John Friess, Robert Montgomery, Chris Gunson

Class

Portland 2009

KETO Butta/LIFE Butta

Founders

Arron Barnes

Overview

Keto and paleo approved nutritious & delicious, superfood infused nut butters.

Class

Portland 2019

KETO Pint/Upstar Nutrition

Founders

Chris Spencer, Gabrielle Sanders

Overview

Ice cream redefined with both the first commercially available keto ice cream and delicious low calorie ice cream.

Class

Portland 2018

Katie Brown LA

Founders

Katie Brown

Overview

Timeless pieces of made-in-America clothing staples.

Class

Eugene 2018

Keen Healthcare

Founders

Vail Horton, Jerry Carleton, DJ Widmer & Summer Widmer

Class

Portland 2003

La Familia Beverage Group

Founders

Jose Gonzalez

Overview

Craft ciders blended in the spirit of traditional Mexican aguas frescas.

Class

Portland 2019

Lessoneer/EdCaliber

Founders

Kevin Stone

Overview

Prepare to Inspire

Class

Portland 2010

Light Dance

Class

Eugene 2014

Local Traffic

Founders

Chris Lee

Overview

The digital concierge platform for hotels and hospitality locations.

Class

Eugene 2018

Locl

Founders

Joel Siedenburg

Overview

See your customer's journey from digital to in person purchase.

Class

Portland 2019

Lola's Fruit Shrubs

Overview

craft cocktail mixers

Class

Eugene 2016

Looptworks

Founders

Scott Hamlin

Overview

Excess Made Useful

Class

Portland 2010

Lucid Blend

Founders

Aaron Bean

Class

Portland 2004

Madorra

Founders

Holly Rockweiler, Ryan Krone

Overview

The simplest, most natural & effective vaginal dryness tool.

Class

Portland 2018

Magnosys Labs

Founders

Christina Aiyami Tom

Overview

Developing tools for the biomedical imaging of oxidative stress for disease identification to inform treatment.

Class

Eugene 2019

Maka Brew

Class

Eugene 2014

Make It Hapin

Founders

Veronica Lieberman, Andrea Tucker

Overview

Fashion technology company that turns inspiration into reality.

Class

Portland 2019

ManageMyCoop
ACQUIRED

Exited

Acquired by FS&B LLC

Founders

Nathan & Kimmy Gustafson

Class

Eugene 2014

Mason-re

Founders

Eric Harvey

Overview

The first koozie to perfectly fit a mason jar.

Class

Bend 2019

Matradee

Class

Portland 2009

Metolius Hemp Company

Founders

Donnie Gilman, Quin Trick, Robert Montgomery, John Friess, David Mullan, Rion Friess

Overview

Premium + Enhanced CBD + CBG + CBDV Consumer Hemp Line 'Reducing Or Replacing' Tobacco, Alcohol and Pharmaceuticals With Healthy Vices.

Class

Bend 2021

Midas Health

Founders

Brian Forrester

Overview

Midas Health helps big companies overcome talent shortages by using a.i. to generate and promote digital content.

Class

Portland 2019

Million Monarchs

Founders

Sean Patrick

Class

Portland

Minim

Founders

Michael Williamson, Reid Paquet

Overview

Minimalist, multi-use outdoor gear.

Class

Portland 2017

Miracle Query

Class

Eugene 2016

MxResearch

Founders

Lucas Littlefield & Troy Morris

Class

Eugene 2014

NemaMetrix

Founders

Matt Beaudet & Janice Weeks

Class

Eugene 2014

Oomph Cooking Blends

Founders

Christine Janae - Leoniak & Michael Leoniak

Overview

Oomph makes cooking Easier, Healthier and Tastier.

Class

Portland 2020

Opal

Founders

George Huff & Steve Giannini

Overview

Opal is a marketing collaboration platform for brands.

Class

Portland 2013

Oreganik

Founders

Ted Brown

Class

Eugene 2014

Pagatim

Class

Portland 2014

Paydici
ACQUIRED

Exited

Acquired 2015 By North America Bancard Inc.

Founders

Eli Alford-Jones

Class

Portland 2008

Pitch Dark Chocolate

Founders

Brian Flick

Class

Portland 2015

Pixio
ACQUIRED

Exited

Acquired 2003 By Planar Systems Inc.

Founders

Kelly Rupp

Class

Portland 2002

PocoPet

Founders

Jenn Sturiale

Overview

Ultra portable pet carrier and support system.

Class

Portland 2019

Portland Bee Balm

Founders

Brad Swift

Class

Portland 2013

ROAM Fitness

Overview

Free to Move

Class

Eugene 2016

RapidProtoCasting

Class

Portland 2005

Real Live Food
ACQUIRED

Exited

Acquired 2018 By SOHR Performance & Nutrition Inc.

Founders

Kimberly Johnson

Class

Eugene 2017

Recess
ACQUIRED

Exited

Acquired By Anderson LLC

Founders

Tanya Barham

Class

Portland 2007

Red Duck Foods
ACQUIRED

Exited

Acquired 2020 By Beaverton Food Co.

Founders

Karen Bonner & Shannon Oliver

Overview

Elevate your food.

Class

Eugene 2014

Rhapline

Class

Portland 2008

Riff Cold Brewed Coffee

Founders

Steve Barham, Kevin Smyth, Paul Evers, Bobby Evers, Nate Armbrust

Overview

The future of cold brewed is upon us.

Class

Bend 2019

Road Noise

Class

Portland 2013

Roaster Tools

Class

Portland 2017

Ruby Receptionists
ACQUIRED

Exited

Acquired/Recap 2014 By Updata Partners LLC.

Founders

Jill Nelson

Overview

Your real, live virtual receptionist.

Class

Portland 2012

Rugged Thread

Founders

Kim Kinney

Overview

Converting broken outdoor gear into the new repair economy.

Class

Bend 2019

Rumblefish
ACQUIRED

Exited

Acquired 2013 By SESAC Inc.

Founders

Paul Anthony Troiano

Class

Portland 2000

Sameunderneath

Class

Portland 2001

Saucefly

Founders

Sara Willis

Overview

Chef-inspired sauces, mixers, marinades & more delivered to your door.

Class

Eugene 2019

Scout Military Discounts

Overview

Defenders of dope deals.

Class

Portland 2017

Second Porch
ACQUIRED

Exited

Acquired 2011 By HomeAway Inc.

Founders

Brent Hieggelke & Kerry Kelley

Class

Portland 2010

Sekse Fit

Founders

Christina Kekke, Kimberly Yannarrielo, Kim Thurman

Overview

The future of dance and pole fitness is Sekse Fit.

Class

Bend 2019

Send Smart

Founders

David Yasnoff

Overview

Using AI to double your lead response rate.

Class

Portland 2019

Sensi Graves Bikinis

Overview

Bikinis that stay on- no matter what.

Class

Portland 2017

ShareThis

Class

Portland 2001

Shishkaboom

Class

Portland 2009

Shurky Jurky

Founders

Mike Shur & Megan Stack

Overview

Crafted for Moments Worth Savoring

Class

Portland 2013

Shwood

Founders

Kirkpatrick & Eric Singer

Class

Portland 2011

Sidebar

Founders

John Hayden

Overview

Real-time customer reviews via opt-in chat platform.

Class

Portland 2018

Sightbox
ACQUIRED

Exited

Acquired by Johnson & Johnson Vision Inc.

Founders

Travis Rush

Overview

Vision Care. Simplified.

Class

Portland 2016

Sit Stay Share

Class

Portland 2013

Sitecast

Founders

Bradley Gauthier

Overview

Sitecast is a suite of configurable API’s to rapidly deploy web projects with ease.

Class

Portland 2015

Slumberkins

Founders

Callie Christensen, Kelly Oriard

Overview

Cuddly creatures with intention.

Class

Portland 2018

Society Nine

Overview

Society Nine - For the Fight Within Every Woman

Class

Portland 2016

Sock It To Me

Founders

Carrie Atkinson

Overview

The original creators, designers and distributors of fun and funky leg wear for the people.

Class

Portland 2008

Sohr Performance

Founders

Joey Jaraczewski & Andrew Ek

Overview

Do what makes you SOHR with the only protein shake made effective and delicious with organic hazelnut milk and 16g of plant-based protein.

Class

Eugene 2018

Southern Cross Spirits

Overview

Crafted spirits made in Oregon.

Class

Portland 2013

Spaceview
ACQUIRED

Exited

Acquired by Atheer Inc.

Founders

Milos Jovanovic

Overview

Bring your vision to life.

Class

Portland 2013

Spark

Overview

“charcoal’s back” we are being a bit intentionally vague at this point.

Class

Portland

SpeakShop

Founders

Clay & Cindy Cooper

Class

Portland 2006

Sseko Designs

Founders

Liz Bohannon, Ben Bohannon

Overview

Sseko is direct to consumer ethical fashion brand that produces premium and custom leather goods, footwear and apparel that creates opportunity for women globally.

Class

Portland 2018

StatDragon/ThemeDragon

Class

Portland 2015

Stitcharama

Overview

Modern Embroidery Pattern Marketplace

Class

Portland 2016

Sunsama

Founders

Travis Myers, Ashutosh Priyadarshy, Jacob Katzen

Class

Portland

Supportland

Founders

Michael & Katrina Scotto De Carlo

Class

Portland 2010

SupraSensor
ACQUIRED

Exited

Acquired Divisionally 2016

Founders

Calden Carroll

Class

Eugene 2014

Sweet Spot Diabetes
ACQUIRED

Exited

Acquired 2012 By DexCom Inc.

Founders

Chris Logan & Adam Greene

Class

Portland 2010

Tali

Founders

Matt Volm, Matt A-W, Matt Holland

Overview

Tali is your voice-driven productivity assistant that eliminates the friction from tracking time and automates the time entry process.

Class

Portland 2018

Thanks.org

Founders

Galen Mittermann, Orion Matthews, Isaac Pino

Overview

Personalized digital thank you cards.

Class

Eugene 2019

The Digits/FUNDA

Founders

Scotty Iseri

Class

Portland 2015

The Dyrt

Founders

Sarah Smith, Kevin Long

Overview

A Better Way to Search for Campgrounds

Class

Portland 2016

The Presentation Company

Founders

Janine Kurnoff & Lee Lazarus

Overview

The Presentation Company helps companies tell your story visually and virtually.

Class

Portland 2005

The Sock Porter

Class

Eugene

Thinking Tree Spirits

Founders

Emily Jensen

Overview

Sustainably focused farm-to-flask distillery.

Class

Eugene 2019

TiQlr

Founders

Willie Koo & Frank Selker

Class

Portland 2014

Top Level Design

Founders

Ray King

Class

Portland 2014

Trail Supply Co.

Class

Eugene 2017

Tripgrid

Founders

Jake Hoskins

Overview

Simplifying complicated team travel logistics.

Class

Portland 2018

TrovaTrip

Founders

Nick Poggi, Lauren Schneider

Overview

To enhance lives through meaningful connections, learning and exploration.

Class

Portland 2019

Twofold/Wheelhouse

Founders

Eli Alford-Jones, Anja Bump

Overview

Transforming walls and rooms into adaptable, ergonomic and efficiently-utilized spaces.

Class

Portland 2018

VIA
ACQUIRED

Exited

Acquired 2018 By United Language Group Inc.

Founders

Chanin Ballance & Dieter Waiblinger

Class

Portland 2000

Vault

Founders

Chad Haas

Class

Portland 2006

Versation
ACQUIRED

Exited

Acquired 2015 By Berlitz Inc.

Founders

John Hayden, Miguel McKelvey & Zach Hoffman

Class

Portland 2000

Vidi.jobs

Founders

Sam Kingery, Matt Brennan, Ben Luikart

Class

Portland 2015

Vino Voyage

Founders

Cheryl Dannen

Overview

App based, curated wine tours and more.

Class

Portland 2019

VisionSite

Founders

Mark Hutchinson

Class

Portland 2001

Vizify
ACQUIRED

Exited

Acquired 2014 By Yahoo Inc.

Founders

Todd Silverstein

Class

Portland 2012

WIGL

Founders

Vivek Mano

Class

Portland 2015

WedBrilliant

Overview

Plan Your Wedding. Name Your Price.

Class

Portland 2016

WelVu

Founders

Mark Friess

Class

Portland 2013

WhereNext

Class

Portland 2000

X-rai

Founders

Bryan Erickson

Overview

Providing IP lawyers with artificial intelligence tools.

Class

Portland 2018

Yecuris

Founders

John Bial

Class

Portland 2011

Zuri Media

Class

Portland 2004

wired.MD
ACQUIRED

Exited

Acquired 2008 By MediMedia Inc.

Founders

Mark Friess & John Friess

Class

Portland 2000

Upcoming Events

Starve Ups hosts a series of events designed to engage founders and broaden their knowledge and expertise. Many events are open to the public. You can learn more about upcoming events in our events calendar.

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Strategic Partners

The exclusive strategic partners work with membership companies to provide startup centric services, funding, and support that drives them forward in critical ways.

Able Sage

Principals

Dallas Roemeling

Overview

Exclusive Print & Signage Strategic Partner

Partner Since

2017

Adidas

Principals

Chris Simons

Overview

Exclusive Apparel & Footwear Strategic Partner

Partner Since

2018

Apex Real Estate

Principals

Rennie Dunn & Nathan Sasaki

Overview

Exclusive Commercial Real Estate Strategic Partner

Partner Since

2005

Banner Bank

Principals

Chris Solomon & Scott Price

Overview

Exclusive Banking Strategic Partner

Partner Since

2013

Get-Benefits

Principals

Mark Ehl & Tim DeWolf

Overview

Exclusive Healthcare Benefits Strategic Partner

Partner Since

2018

HRT Northwest

Principals

Darcy McAllister

Overview

Exclusive Human Resources Consulting Partner

Partner Since

2018

Immix Law Group

Principals

Jerry Carleton & Heather Carleton

Overview

Exclusive Legal Counsel Strategic Partner

Partner Since

2015

Jason Stein

Principals

Jason Stein

Overview

Exclusive Business Coaching Strategic Partner

Partner Since

2017

Jones & Roth

Principals

Evan Dickes

Overview

Exclusive Certified Public Accounting Strategic Partner

Partner Since

2019

Lightbox Filmworks

Principals

Marc Rotse

Overview

Exclusive Video Production Strategic Partner

Partner Since

2013

Opal 28

Principals

Margot Feves

Overview

Exclusive Event Space & Catering Strategic Partner

Partner Since

2013

Sitecast

Principals

Brad Gauthier & Rubie Tiburcio

Overview

Exclusive Technology Strategic Partner

Partner Since

2017

SKA Wealth Strategies of Raymond James

Principals

Jason Saunders & Stephanie Kelly & Jeri Richard

Overview

Exclusive Wealth Management Strategic Partner

Partner Since

2017

University Of Oregon

Principals

Nathan Lillegard

Overview

Exclusive University Strategic Partner

Partner Since

2017

WeWork

Principals

Miguel McKelvey & Adam Neumann

Overview

Exclusive Co-Working Strategic Partner

Partner Since

2015

Portland

Portland Chapter

Established 2000

Starve Ups was founded in October 2000 by a group of first time founders, from seven Oregon-based startup companies, as Oregon's first startup accelerator. In attendance were the founders of what became the startups knowns as AssetExchange (acquired), CoolerEmail (acquired), eROI (now Thesis), Rumblefish (acquired), VIA (acquired), Versation (acquired), and wired.MD (acquired).

Eugene

Eugene Chapter

Established 2013

Starve Ups Eugene was founded in December of 2013 by a group of founders, from ten Oregon-based startup companies including: Arcimoto (Initial Public Offering), BT Biotech, Dyscover.me, Dune Sciences, Light Dance, Manage My Co-op (acquired), MxResearch, NemaMetrix (now InVivo Biosciences), Organik, and Red Duck Foods (acquired).

Bend

Bend Chapter

Established 2018

Starve Ups Bend was founded in April 2018 by a group of founders, from nine Oregon-based startup companies including: FIDO, Bird Seed (acquired), Covered 360, Ella & Oak, Genesi, Mason-re, Riff Cold Brewed Coffee, Rugged Thread, and Sekse Fit.

Founder Testimonials

Starve Ups was created by founders, is run by founders, and is solely for founders. In turn, it is the end-to-end accelerator founders would ideally create. Here are some membership companies feedback on the value of the scalerator.

Carrie Atkinson

Carrie Atkinson
Founder
Sock It To Me


"The support from you as well as Starve Ups was vital to our success."

I wanted to let you know that we just hit the $10M mark for this year so far. The support from you as well as Starve Ups was vital to our success.

As you know, it can be very lonely as a founder, but support from a community of like minded people makes all the difference.

Thank you!! And thank you for continuing to put so much heart into the cause.

Lars Helgeson

Lars Helgeson
Founder
GreenRope
Inc. 5000 Company

"To put it simply, we wouldn't exist today if it wasn't for Starve Ups."

As a founding member of Starve Ups, we were part of the initial exploration of whether or not other company founders could benefit from being connected to each other. To put it simply, we wouldn't exist today if it wasn't for Starve Ups. The relationships we forged, the lessons we learned from each other, and the long-lasting friendships have been the primary reason we grew from a couple guys with an idea to one of the most broadly used integrated CRM and marketing automation SaaS companies on the market.

When times were tough, I was able to share our struggles and get new ideas on how to solve problems. As we grew, the feedback we received from other founders kept us away from the many pitfalls that come with growth. Knowing we could talk to other businesses about how to best use resources and how to deal with potential investors kept us alive. We learned how to build a positive, cohesive, data-driven culture, and Starve Ups was a primary driver behind that metamorphosis into a "real" company.

Molly Rogers

Molly Rogers
Founder
Lola's Fruit Shrubs

"I wouldn't be in business today if not for the support from Starve Ups. "

My time as an entrepreneur has not been easy. It has been a journey of personal growth, growing into the role as CEO by letting go of self doubt. Being in a group of people who have made or are making this journey means the world to me.

It lets me know I'm not alone, and it demonstrates that making dreams materialize is possible. Beyond demonstrating the possibility Starve Ups brings tools to the table to work on each members' business.

Being a part of this group, community and network are so fundamental that I wouldn't be in business today if not for the support from Starve Ups.

Willie Koo

Willie Koo
Co-Founder
AssetExchange
Acquired by Fidelity National Information Services (NYSE: FIS)

"We knew with absolute certainty that we could rely on each other."

There were at least 3 times I was absolutely prepared to quit, but changed my mind after attending Starve Ups meetings. Every gathering was cathartic, educational, and most importantly, it was filled with tenacity and encouragement.

Even though the other company founders had no stake in mine, they all supported me as if they did. The initial Starve Ups members were a family.

We knew with absolute certainty that we could rely on each other. To walk away would have meant walking away from family, not just my venture. I couldn't do that.

Kevin Long & Sarah Smith

Kevin Long & Sarah Smith
Co-Founders
The Dyrt

"

Like no other organization I've ever experienced, Starve Ups continues to...serve up very critical moments when needed most."

Succeeding with a startup is dependent on being able to piece together enough game changing moments, that continue to move your startup to the next level.

The Dyrt would not be experiencing our current success without the Starve Ups led founder-to-founder conversations and the Starve Ups led fundraising networking.



Like no other organization I've ever experienced, Starve Ups continues to consistently and naturally serve up very critical moments when needed most.

Rob Coons

Rob Coons
Co-Founder
Scout Military Discounts

"I can honestly say that Scout Military owes its existence to the Starve Ups community."

Starve Ups' peer mentoring exceeds any level of community we've seen from coworking spaces, incubators, accelerators, and investment funds.

They've been there before (or are going through it currently), and they don't require the sugar coating that many stakeholders need. The specific attention paid to your unique situation is second to none.

I can honestly say that Scout Military owes its existence to the Starve Ups community. During our darkest time, they gave us their time, expertise, and experience to steer us through our challenge.

Tanya Barham

Tanya Barham
Founder
Recess
Acquired by Cheri Anderson

"After more than a decade in Starve Ups I can conclusively say…that it is real."

The candor, support, successes, failures and life experiences we all share as entrepreneurs is a valuable form of emotional insulation from the extreme pressure cooker that is entrepreneurship. After more than a decade in Starve Ups I can conclusively say that while the value is difficult to articulate in a bullet list, that it is real.

A sense of community and the momentum that can help a person or entity maintain is rare and difficult to sustain for as long as Starve Ups has managed. I'm honored to have been a member, board member and emeritus member of the Starve Ups community and am grateful for the inspiration and support I've been lucky to have given and received there.

Scott Fouser

Scott Fouser
Co-Founder
Gruntworks
Acquired by HouseHappy

"From my first founders happy hour, I was never in a bubble."

Over the years, the passionate, enthusiastic, caring, supportive and frikkin smart Starve Ups entrepreneurs have consistently added value through problem solving, opportunity exploration and encouragement.

When it came time to explore an exit, the insights gained through real conversations about personal and financial objectives, with having different optics than me, resulted in a more much satisfying exit than it started out to be.

From my first founders happy hour, I was never in a bubble.

David Embree

David Embree
Founder
Athletepath
Acquired by imATHLETE

"…the amount you will learn from others' successes, and stumbles will shock you."

Starve Ups helps entrepreneurs and founders who commit to the community...the amount you will learn from others' successes, and stumbles will shock you.

Starve Ups is a community that ensures nobody has to make the same mistake that somebody else has endured and learned from – which means that together you can benefit from each others' successes and accomplishments.

Some times you're avoiding pitfalls, sometimes you're taking the "express tunnel" you wouldn't otherwise have known about. And all along the way – and this is important – you have the genuine support of your fellow Starve Ups entrepreneurs.

Kris Akins

Kris Akins
Founder
Charlie Curls

"No one is a founder unless they've stepped off an edge…Starve Ups is Founders."

Starve Ups are Founders. No one is a founder unless they've stepped off an edge, believed enough in a dream and themselves to risk everything. Founders enter a cutting edge world and cutting an edge means meeting terrifying situations and make or break decisions, almost always without all of the resources readily at hand; decisions that affect family, investors, maybe even the world and definitely the heart of the person making the decision.   

Starve Ups are people who've felt the exhilaration, yet the fear. When my path seems erratic, necessitating new choices every few steps, yet an electrifying force is driving me forward, it is only founders who can truly understand the dynamics. Starve Ups is Founders.

Margot Feves

Margot Feves
Founder
Dinner At Your Door
Acquired by Farm To Fit

"Starve Ups has provided me consistent guidance...a huge part to creating, building, and then selling my first company."

The life of an entrepreneur can feel unstable; however, the dynamic group within Starve Ups has provided me consistent guidance. Since 2009, I have had the opportunity to meet so many like minded individuals willing to offer feedback, support and friendship.

These connections were a huge part to creating, building, and then selling my first company. As I complete the 4th profitable year of my second company I am certain my experience with in the StarveUps community encourages my continued success.

Milos Jovanovic

Milos Jovanovic
Founder
SpaceView
Acquired by Atheer

"I couldn't have finished the SpaceView acquisition without the crucial help from Starve Ups."

Starve Ups stands out as the most valuable peer group. The group was supportive in ways that only fellow founders who had no monetary gain tied to my success could. Understanding, encouragement and help on the highest level.

They were there for me in every step of the way, especially when times got hard and everyone one else gave up. I couldn't have finished the SpaceView acquisition without the crucial help from Starve Ups.

Michael Williamson

Michael Williamson
Co-Founder
MINIM

"Starve Ups community is constantly feeding us both as a startup and as individuals."

Whether it is a planned event, one-on-one meeting, or working at HQ, the Starve Ups community is constantly feeding us both as a startup and as individuals. Interacting with other founders who genuinely desire to make a difference with MINIM has helped us in almost every aspect of the business.

Although the community has helped us improve our product offering, optimize our business model, and provide a clearer growth path, the most significant impact Starve Ups has made is with our brand itself. MINIM's "more from less" ethos can be contributed not only to our personal experiences as outdoor enthusiasts, but the Starve Ups community as a whole. And for that, we are incredibly grateful.

Shannon Oliver

Shannon Oliver
Co-Founder
Red Duck Foods
Acquired by Beaverton Food Co.

"Starve Ups is the ultimate connector…and the lessons learned have been invaluable."

Starve Ups is the ultimate connector.  We've met so many other great companies that have been open and willing to share their knowledge, network, challenges, and solutions.  Nobody has any clue what they're doing when they first start a business and to have access to people who are a year or two ahead of us that have shared their experiences and lessons learned has been invaluable.  There are just some things you can't Google an answer to and the peer to peer aspect has been amazing.

Starve Ups is more than simply creating space and time for founders to connect though.  Starve Ups also connects startups to the people and resources that will help build their businesses.  We've had questions or needs that our peer network may not necessarily have answers for and there is no shortage of connections to the people, companies, and resources that can help drive us forward.

Lastly, we know that as we continue to grow and build our business we'll encounter challenges (and excitement) we never even imagined.  It's truly great to know that no matter what comes along, we're tapped in to a vast network of people who'll be able to help us to reach our goals.

Sam Pardue

Sam Pardue
Founder
Indow

"I have found Starve Ups to be instrumental to Indow's rapid growth."

I have found Starve Ups to be instrumental to Indow's rapid growth. I always enjoy the peer networking and advice. I try to make it to every Hot Seat that I can, not only because I love helping other entrepreneurs, but also because I can learn so much from my fellow CEOs as they go through key inflection points on their own journeys.

Starve Ups has also been exceptionally helpful for our fundraising. We met our Series B lead investor, William Hambrecht, at the first Starve Ups Venture Community event. Indow subsequently received $100,000  from a fund we connected with through Starve Ups networking. 

I highly recommend Starve Ups to every start up CEO. It's a great community and it's fun!

Ben West

Ben West
Co-Founder
Spark

"Starve Ups is a prepackaged set of amazing people that love startup so much, they help other people with their companies too."

I think the toughest thing about startup is that you don’t know what you don’t know. Experience is something gained over time by living through something.

Starve Ups is composed of an amazing set of first-time entrepreneurs and experienced serial entrepreneurs that love what they do. Spark is my second company in the Starve Ups community; the first time was so valuable, I had to do it again. Everyone wants seasoned professionals around them when pursuing something.

Starve Ups is a prepackaged set of amazing people that love startup so much, they help other people with their companies too. It gives us all energy to help others and watch the group grow as people, and as a set of companies. It can be tough out there, but you don’t have to do it alone.

Phil & Jessica Fraser

Phil & Jessica Fraser
Co-Founders
IDT

"What an amazing community Starve Ups provides to us founders...nothing short of remarkable."

What an amazing community Starve Ups provides to us founders! The introductions that are made to other founders (new and experienced alike), startup friendly companies, and investors are phenomenal and the help that comes from the community is nothing short of remarkable.

Whether it’s getting through the day-to-day hustle, major corporate issues and everything in between, there are always multiple people there to prop you up or provide you with the guidance you need. Our company would not be in the great position it is today without our membership in Starve Ups.

Matt Beaudet

Matt Beaudet
Co-Founder
InVivo Biosciences (Formerly Nemametrix)

"I would not be where I am today without Starve Ups and I do not think I will be able to get where I need to go without them as well."

Starve Ups means never feeling like you are doing it alone. I started a Biotech company and… there are not many of those in Oregon. But in the end it was not the biotech side of the business that was the struggle - it was all the other stuff. And while it was not instantaneous - Starve Ups did become that network of close friends and colleagues that I could turn to when I was struggling.

Struggling with how to hire someone I could not afford. Struggling with raising my first investment. Struggling in the early days when sales were… flat. Struggling with reconciling my own ambition with the pain of a startup.

It was not so much that the Starve Ups members have the right answers. It is more that they, as peers, understood what I was going through and the weight of those struggles. They had experiences and stories of their own struggles. No magic answers but a heap-ton of critical guidance on what worked for them (and what did not). I would not be where I am today without Starve Ups and I do not think I will be able to get where I need to go without them as well.

Sensi Graves

Sensi Graves
Founder
Sensi Graves Swim (Formerly Sensi Graves Bikinis)

"I am continually inspired and re-motivated to take my business to the next level. And with Starve Ups help, I am able to do so."

The best thing about Starve Ups is the connections that you make with fellow entrepreneurs. The networking is invaluable and extremely helpful.

I am continually inspired and re-motivated to take my business to the next level. And with Starve Ups help, I am able to do so.

Kimmy Gustafson

Kimmy Gustafson
Co-Founders
Manage My Co-Op
Acquired by FS&B LLC

"Starve Ups founders refused to let me quit and instead helped us find a way to sell the company instead."

I can remember my first Starve Ups meetings like it was yesterday (it was four years ago). It was a quarterly catch up where we all shared what our biggest victories and struggles of the past quarter were. Listening to a fellow female founder share her worries about making payroll, getting her product actually on shelves, and manage her small warehouse was profoundly altering. I knew in that moment I wasn’t alone. We all went on to help her problem solve her way through her hurdles with advice she couldn’t have found anywhere else.

Since that meeting I have been coached and mentored through my own struggles as a founder. When we had reached the limits of our abilities, and I was ready to burn the company to the ground, fellow Starve Ups founders refused to let me quit and instead helped us find a way to sell the company instead. Simply having this community meant the difference between a wind down and an exit.

Jordan Gal

Jordan Gal
Co-Founder
CartHook

"A genuine environment of trust, combined with unfiltered access to founders at all stages of the startup lifecycle. "

Starve Ups has been an instrumental part of our success as an early stage software company. There's a world of advice and best practices available on Twitter and various startup blogs.

But there's nothing like being surrounded by a group of fellow founders going through the same journey in real time. That's what Starve Ups provides in a very unique way. A genuine environment of trust, combined with unfiltered access to founders at all stages of the startup lifecycle.

Over the past year, I've needed, and received, specific actionable help on hiring, customer success, fundraising, pricing, and marketing strategy. The value is incalculable, but I have no doubt it's made a material difference. Also, it helps you stay sane, which, it turns out, is essential.

Jody Filkins

Jody Filkins
COO
Handful

"Sharing this journey with others in Starve Ups has given us confidence and energy to push ourselves to be the best company we can be."

Starve Ups has connected us with an eco-system of support, energy and intellect. The entrepreneurial world is amazing, but it isn’t easy. You have to like the roller coaster – full of ups and downs.

Starve Ups has thoughtful, smart and hard working members that help lift you when you’re down and help hold you when you’re up. We have found mentors and partners. We are encouraged and pushed. We grow. Building a company can be lonely.

Sharing this journey with others in Starve Ups has given us confidence and energy to push ourselves to be the best company we can be.

Chris Fontenot

Chris Fontenot
Founder
A Cajun Life

"It’s like a brain trust on steroids. Thanks Starve Ups for already helping us take our business to the next level! "

In the short time since becoming a member of Starve Ups, we have received invaluable insights, guidance, recommendations and more both from our peer group as well as mentors and partners. Being a founders only organization provides a unique environment for founders to express the ups and downs, successes and challenges of our respective businesses, without the feeling of being judged or facing repercussions for stating what we all really want to say all in a value added, reciprocated way. The community and lasting relationships created by this structure are for sure unique to Starve Ups.

In our case specifically, we have already received guidance and referrals/introductions for an open capital raise as well as direction for a potential acquisition we are exploring. On the flip side, having the ability to give/receive direct feedback from peers provides additional viewpoints into our business from perspectives we likely wouldn’t have otherwise had or at least without paying for it.

During our regular peer group meetings, conversations are had across multiple industries ranging from tech, to clothing, to food, and more with each bringing unique challenges to the table that we all collectively help troubleshoot. It’s like a brain trust on steroids. Thanks Starve Ups for already helping us take our business to the next level!

Katie Brown

Katie Brown
Founder
Katie Brown LA

"I am so grateful and wouldn't be here today, were it not for Starve Ups."

Starve Ups came to me via Mark Frohnmayer, founder of Arcimoto. He highly recommended it and explained that one must apply to get in. I have participated in other accelerators and similar groups. They all bring something to the table as far as what they offer and I am grateful for all of those experiences! I applied and got in to Starve Ups. I started going to the events and I was struck by something: every single time I met up with the group, in whatever configuration, for whatever purpose, I walked away feeling like I had just received a serious vitamin B shot.

I am a serial entrepreneur, having started seven ventures. My current company is a clothing company - but it's WAY more than a clothing company. I want to start a revolution around conscientious consumerism, less is more, inclusivity, environmental awareness, slow fashion, high quality - timeless basics made in the USA.

Being a founder of a startup is incredibly intense, rewarding, hard, lonely, exciting, challenging, thrilling... Starve Ups has been, without question, my main lifeline. It has helped me in my darkest moments. The people have inspired me, supported me, encouraged me and rallied! And, it is my hope, that I have given this back to them. This is my entrepreneurial family and I am incredibly loyal to this family.

I am now on the board of Starve Ups and I couldn't be more honored to be a player in taking Starve Ups all the way to the stars. We genuinely support one another in this AMAZING pursuit - this thing called being a founder of a startup. I am so grateful and wouldn't be here today, were it not for Starve Ups. Thanks, guys, from the bottom of my heart.

Dan Hodges

Dan Hodges
Founder
FIDO

"Thank you for creating and building such a needed force in the business building business."

Being able to share best practices, challenges and opportunities with a group of like minded entrepreneurs is something anyone starting a business needs to do. As a fourth time founder who has participated in other accelerators, I found this group dedicated and engaged. I also found the terms of engagement "spoke to me" as they focus on your personal success knowing the halo affect takes care of everything else. It's an altruistic, "let's all be successful" endeavor. Thank you for creating and building such a needed force in the business building business.

Kelly Oriard

Kelly Oriard
Co-Founder
Slumberkins

"Knowing that the model was created by founders for founders allowed us a level of trust and transparency that we would not have had anywhere else. "

Starve Ups has been an essential part of our success at Slumberkins. As two educators turned entrepreneurs we did not have a community of peers until we connected with the Starve Ups community.

Knowing that the model was created by founders for founders allowed us a level of trust and transparency that we would not have had anywhere else. This allowed us to grow faster, make smarter decisions and find the right network of investors, mentors and strategic partners. We feel so lucky to be part of an innovative group that is changing the game for founders.

Richard Geiger

Richard Geiger
Co-Founder
Dune Sciences

"Starve Ups to me personally, to my company, is like the Force to a Jedi!"

Starve Ups to me personally, to my company, is like the Force to a Jedi!

It is just freaky, the number of times I have gotten exactly the right bit of advice or encouragement from other founders. It just boggles the mind. Whether, it was at Launch Pad, quarterly catch-ups, M&A breakfasts, or just a quick call and coffee with another founder, Starve Ups has been a life saver for our company.

No matter the product or service you are creating with your company, there is a smart, dedicated member of your start up family to help connect you to someone, pump you up or just let you vent so you can get back at it. Knowing what I do now... I would start a company just to hang with the amazing group of people that are Starve Ups... may the force be with you!

Christina Kekke

Christina Kekke
Co-Founder
Sekse Fit

"Starve Ups founders are open, honest, and will fight for you and your company..."

At our very first Starve Ups meeting we knew this was going to be the team to help us launch our brand. The camaraderie, genuine interests, and generosity of sharing of knowledge and connections from founders who have had success in exiting as well as many learning experiences, aka failures, from which they have gained a wealth of knowledge that they pass down to us, makes us feel very fortunate.

Starve Ups founders are open, honest, and will fight for you and your company—plus they feed you! Joining Starve Ups gave us the insight and knowledge to help us strategize and think big.

We are very grateful that they are here to pick us up when we are feeling defeated or exhausted. They always hold the light at the end of the tunnel, plus we always get a good laugh at every meeting!

Jon Ewalt

Jon Ewalt
Founder
RoasterTools

"Peer to peer mentoring flat out works, and I can't recommend Starve Ups enough. "

Starve Ups is like a second family that's along for the ride during my startup journey. A family of fellow founders, who get the struggle, the highs and the lows that come with building a successful startup. But they aren't just along for the ride.

Your peers in Starve Ups will challenge you, pushing you to move beyond the day to day struggles to achieve more. It's everything from the nitty gritty to mindset, from the daily struggle to keeping your aware of the bigger picture.

Peer to peer mentoring flat out works, and I can't recommend Starve Ups enough.

Valerie Roth

Valerie Roth
Founder
Fire Brew

"I love everyone in the group and am grateful to have them on my team."

Starve Ups has given me a community of entrepreneurs to lean into when times get challenging and also a group with whom I can celebrate my company's victories, both big and small!

Everyone understands the ebbs and flows of building a business and it's comforting to know that a group of likeminded, super determined (and maybe a little crazy) individuals have my back, especially when I feel like no one else does! I love everyone in the group and am grateful to have them on my team.

Michele Davis

Michele Davis
Co-Founder
Cocacao

"We attended Launch Pad and felt like we had found our people. "

When we found out about Starve Ups we wanted to see what it was all about. We attended Launch Pad and felt like we had found our people. It was so nice to be around people who understood no sleep, being stressed, and having a dream. Our own family does not understand how we are feeling while trying to launch a company.

We were accepted to be part of the 2019 class and we were so excited! Since joining we have found friends who understand us. We had fellow cohorts jump in and help at an event when we were understaffed. We have had help preparing for our first pitch at an event. We can reach out to any member of Starve Ups and they are there to help even when they are so busy with their own companies.