Mason Programs

Learn about programs and activities developed by the Mason Enterprise Center Loudoun and other George Mason University organizations that serve MEC Members, the tech eco-system and the business community as a whole

MEC Loudoun Programs

Pitch Practice

Quarterly tech venture Pitch Practice sessions brought to you by the MEC Loudoun start Oct. 27, 2021. Each session will give selected tech ventures the opportunity to give their 12-minute pitch to a panel of investors and previously funded entrepreneurs.

In these Pitch Practices, tech companies seeking equity investment will receive critical feedback for their startup venture–before going in front of investors and actually asking for money. Don’t go unprepared, take the opportunity to practice here. To apply to Pitch complete a simple application form here: https://bit.ly/MECPitchApplication.

Mason Moments

These community seminars feature George Mason University faculty and staff who share key topics related to business success, quality of life, sustainable practices, cybersecurity and others. These sessions will be offered periodically based on demand and timeliness of the topics.

Techcess Talks

These high-level forums will showcase speakers and panels in the tech industry who will share trending information and cutting-edge ideas. Don’t miss these opportunities to learn from the experts. To find upcoming sessions visit our calendar of events. To see past topics check out posts on our News page.

1 Million Cups

1 Million Cups (1MC) is a national, licensed entrepreneur support program that provides community connections and a peer-to-peer forum in which people can help get their business problems solved. Once a month, every 2nd Wed. morning at 9:00 AM entrepreneurs have an opportunity to present their business concept, startup or re-invented company to a diverse audience of advisors, business people, entrepreneurs and service providers. Presenters have 8 to 10 minutes to share their business concept and any issues they are having. As a community, the participants provide supportive feedback and help you solve your challenges.

At 1MC you meet others, get connected and gain the help you need as you grow your business. Learn more about 1 Million Cups or apply to present
(https://www.1millioncups.com/loudoun). RSVP at https://www.meetup.com/1-Million-Cups/ 

MEC Mixer

MEC Mixers are informal gatherings around coffee or drinks that give current MEC Member companies and MEC Alums, as well as, select local business leaders and supporters, a chance to get to know each other and development meaningful business synergies.

GovCon Sessions

Through our Contractor Chat Meetup we share events we have developed that help local, state and Federal government contractors, learn, connect and grow. This group will help you understand new techniques and best practices, introduce you to industry experts and connect with teaming partners. Through these sessions you learn skills and make connections that help you grow your company. Visit our events calendar for upcoming sessions and learn more here: https://www.meetup.com/contractorchat/ 

George Mason University Resources

MEC Incubator Organization  Workshops

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The Mason Enterprise Center Business Incubator organization and its cadre of trainers and instructors offer a wide variety of high-quality professional programs on topics relevant to small business owners in the community. No matter your current state of advancement, you will be able to learn from experienced professionals to help develop your own business.

Virginia SBDC – Virginia Small Business Development Center

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The Virginia SBDCs offer 2 hour to 4 hour training programs and seminars on a variety of topics including business planning, marketing, management, cybersecurity, legal considerations, accounting and bookkeeping, financial analysis, technology, and access to capital. Vetted subject area experts deliver
training programs for the Virginia SBDCs.

ICAP – Innovation Commercialization Assistance Program

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The Innovation Commercialization Assistance Program (ICAP) is focused on helping Virginia-based technology and innovation-driven startups on their path to success. ICAP works with startups to provide support along their entire journey towards scaling – from the early idea stage, all the way through working on Series A level of funding. This is accomplished through experiential learning programs and one-on-one advising with a team of experienced entrepreneurs and intrapreneurs.
Based on the National Science Foundation’s I-Corps™ program for Lean Startups, the ICAP Introductory Course helps inventors and entrepreneurs take the right first steps in bringing new technologies and innovations to market. ICAP includes FREE training programs and counseling services offered through ICAP instructors and mentors to startups across the Commonwealth. The ICAP Introductory Course helps startups identify potential customers and develop successful business models. It is an ideal program for early-stage companies trying to prepare for eventual venture investment.

International Business Development (IBC)

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The International Business Development Program works with established Virginia based firms to
enhance their global success. Our Certified Global Business Professionals provide confidential, no-cost
advising, training, and research to help companies mitigate risks, prioritize markets, identify financing,
and grow export sales. Selected companies can receive a no-cost, customized Market Analysis plan.

PTAC – The Virginia Procurement Technical Assistance Center 

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PTAC is dedicated to helping local businesses do business with the government, which includes federal,
state, and local. Their services consist of assisting clients with understanding how to properly analyze and successfully communicate with the government. PTAC provides no-cost counseling, educational classes and match-making events for government contractors, as well as a subscription Bid-Match Service (BMS) which aggregates federal, state, and local government bid opportunities related to your
business.

Center for Government Contracting

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The vision of the Center for Government Contracting is to establish the first-in-the-nation university center to address business, policy, regulatory and other issues in government contracting. The School of Business at George Mason University is uniquely positioned to create this center by virtue of the composition of our faculty and students as well as our geographic co-location with the Federal Government and many headquarters and major facilities of companies that make up the $500 billion government contracting (Gov-Con) industry. A nexus for government, industry, and academia to explore issues in government contracting. Activities to implement this vision will focus on three lines of effort: Research, Collaboration, and Education and Training.

Craft Beverage Assistance Program

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Craft Beverage Assistance Program (CBA) services are designed to promote sustainable growth and resilience among Virginia-based producers, from start-ups to established and expanding companies.
Through CBA advisors (no-cost) and workshops craft beverage entrepreneurs can receive assistance with market analysis, sales strategy, distribution and logistics, back-office and operations, promotion plans and expansion and exports.

Cybersecurity Program

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The Va SBDC provides no-cost support for small companies to keep your business secure by offering one-on-one advising, assessments, and webinars to learn how to protect your businesses from cyber threats. Cybersecurity expert, Tom Stamulis, can work directly with very small business owners who do not have a managed IT service provider or who self-manage as well as provide professional suggestions and guidance to IT teams. Mr. Stamulis, offers weekly tips to understand the basics and what it take