The 2nd Annual LA Tech Week.
This was the second year A16Z has put on LA Tech week and after year one, there was certainly some room for improvement. It seemed like this year was slightly more organized and definitely more well attended.
The cool thing about LA tech week is there are SO many events you can make it your own experience and as with anything, you get out what you put in.
The Smoov team made it to 18 events in 6 days and we're going to show you what is was like over the course of the week with write-ups and video breakdowns for each day.
Here was our breakdown for Day 1.
Event 1: Building Brands from Seed to IPO.
This event was in Culver City at the Koto Offices and the content was somewhat interesting although in our case a little bit of reinforcing what we already know or believe, vs totally new breakthrough concepts.
Definitely reiterated the focus on building a brand and how it needs to be a conscious effort.
I ran into a friend from college who I hadn't seen in 10 years which was super cool.
Event 2: This Week In Fintech Kick Off.
This event was in Santa Monica at Clocktower Ventures offices.
This Week in Fintech is an awesome fintech-focused newsletter I've been following for a long time and it was nice to get a fintech specific event on the books early in the week.
The downside was that the format for the event was nonexistent which is turning into a bit of a pet peeve of mine after learning about "The Art of Gathering" from Priya Parker.
Typical open bar, appetizers and ~networking~ atmosphere. The office has an incredible view but was extremely loud and even with no music it was hard to chat with and get to know people.
We met some great people and ran into some LA homies right off the bat which is super nice though.
Event 3: Money is Funny: The Tech Pitch Roast Comedy Show.
This event was in east Santa Monica at The Crow comedy club.
Through a mutual connection I was introduced to, Elizabeth the host of this event and she invited to pitch just a few hours before the event started... In the spirit of nothing ventured, nothing gained I decided to accept the opportunity despite very little prep time.
It was a bit of a hostile pitch environment but in the end felt like good exposure and a great experience.
Here's the video recap from day one below.
The week only gets more busy from here - stay tuned for Day 2 recap coming tomorrow.
Best,
Tuck from Smoov
In honor of a successful LA Tech Week, use promo code "LATW!" for 35% off of your next purchase at the Smoov shop!