Silicon Valley Association of Startup Entrepreneurs
Silicon Valley Association of Startup Entrepreneurs (SVASE) is a Silicon Valley nonprofit dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship. SVASE currently operated virtually in Silicon Valley, with an associate membership exceeding 11,000. SVASE is closely affiliated with the Silcion Valley entrepreneur and investor communities, and is recognized as an important networking forum for entrepreneurs. SVASE's speakers and sponsors are drawn from nearly every early stage venture capital firm, angel group and legal firm in Silicon Valley.
Overview
SVASE was founded in 1995 in Silicon Valley by a group of aspiring entrepreneurs, with roots in the software industry. There are currently more than 11,000 members. SVASE's mission is to foster entrepreneurship through mentoring, networking, and education. Dedicated to the virtuous cycle of wealth creation and giving back to the community, SVASE’s focus is on generating and nurturing our next generation of entrepreneurs.
Membership
SVASE has several tiers of membership, including: Charter Members, Individual Members, Corporate Members, International Members, and Student Members. Charter Members have achieved significant success in the Silicon Valley business community.
Activities
SVASE hosts a variety of events for entrepreneurs to network with successful startup founders and potential investors, and to learn about the best practices for becoming a success themselves.
Prominent Participants in SVASE activities
- Jonathan Abrams, serial entrepreneur & angel, Founder, Friendster
- Guy Kawasaki, author, Managing Director, Garage Technology Ventures
- Steve Blank, author, serial entrepreneur, lecturer
- Reid Hoffman, serial entrepreneur & angel, Founder, LinkedIn
- Dave McClure, person who is Dave McClure, former President of SVASE.
Corporate Sponsors have included: Microsoft, HP, Adobe, Silicon Valley Bank, Bridge Bank, PWC, Ernst & Young, Applied Materials, Deloitte & Touche, SAP, Venture Capital Sponsors have included: Garage Technology Ventures, DFJ, Claremont Creek Ventures, Woodside Fund