Welcome to the Startup Row Toolkit! This repository contains a comprehensive, step-by-step guide for replicating the Startup Row program at local or regional Python conferences. Whether you’re a seasoned PyCon organizer or brand-new to event planning, we’ve compiled everything you need to spotlight promising early-stage startups using Python.
Startup Row offers free booth space, free conference passes, and (optional) access to the PyCon US Job Fair to selected startups at Python conferences, creating a win-win scenario:
- Founders gain visibility and engagement with the Python community.
- Conference organizers showcase exciting, cutting-edge innovations.
- Attendees learn about new products, potential employers, and interesting Python use cases.
We originally developed Startup Row for PyCon US, but the concept is open to all Python-related events. If you’re running a local PyCon, a regional Python meetup, or even a specialized developer conference, you can adapt this model to fit your community’s needs and budget.
- Clone or Download this repository.
- Familiarize yourself with the sections below—each covers a unique phase of planning and execution.
- Adapt the templates and instructions to suit your local event’s size, timeline, and resources.
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Introduction and Overview Learn the backstory of Startup Row, why it matters, and how it benefits conferences of all sizes.
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Target Audience and Goals
Understand who this toolkit is for and what we hope you’ll achieve by replicating Startup Row locally. -
Branding and PSF Relationship
Explore how Startup Row aligns with the Python Software Foundation (PSF) and best practices for local naming/branding. -
Timeline and Key Milestones
Get a sense of the recommended scheduling—from initial prep and application launch through conference day. -
Application Process
Gather tips for building a smooth, clear application funnel that ensures you find the best Python startups. -
Selection Committee and Scoring
Learn how to assemble a judging panel, evaluate startups with a simple scoring scale, and handle potential conflicts of interest. -
Outreach and Recruitment
Discover effective channels—social media, mailing lists, local user groups—to attract quality applications. -
Communication and Notifications
Master the art of acceptance and rejection notices, plus set the right tone for your startup relationships. -
Logistics for Selected Startups
From booth assignments to staffing guidelines, learn how to treat startups like sponsors without the financial cost. -
Budgeting and Funding
Explore cost considerations, deposit strategies, and how to secure external sponsorship if funds are tight. -
Ongoing Support and Scalability
See how the PyCon US team can collaborate, share feedback loops, and help your Startup Row flourish over time.
We’d love to see how you adapt Startup Row for your community! Feel free to:
- Open an Issue on GitHub if you have a question or run into challenges.
- Submit a Pull Request with improvements, clarifications, or local success stories.
- General Inquiries: If you have quick questions or want advice, open a GitHub Issue.
We’re always happy to hop on a call, share best practices, or even attend your local conference if timing and logistics allow!
- This documentation is provided free of charge, licensed under the MIT License.
- Special thanks to the volunteers, alumni founders, and Python community members who have contributed their time and expertise to shape Startup Row.
Thanks for checking out the Startup Row Toolkit! We can’t wait to see how you’ll build on this framework to highlight awesome Python startups in your community. If you have any feedback or success stories, let us know—we’d love to hear them!