MDL Technology Showcases Top Ten Funniest Tech Videos on YouTube
May 17th, 2012
Posted by: T.J. Bloom, COO of MDL Technology
We all know how frustrating tech problems can be; from having a computer that won’t turn on, to losing ten pages of work because you forgot to save a document. Technological problems are everywhere.
We here at MDL Technology, LLC., pride ourselves on being the solution to technological nightmares, but we also know sometimes you just need to laugh.
Computerworld found the top ten funniest tech videos on YouTube. These are sure to make you forget your tech problems, for at least a little while.
Here are the top ten funniest tech videos:
MDL Technology, A Kansas City Managed Services Company, Profiles Big Omaha 2012
May 11th, 2012
Posted by: T.J. Bloom, COO of MDL Technology
The fourth annual Big Omaha is underway at KANEKO in Omaha’s Old Market. Big Omaha provides the chance for attendees to experience an interconnected conference on innovation and entrepreneurship. There’s been a recorded increase in the number of attendees each year – 400 at the inaugural event in 2009, and more than 650 are expected to attend this year. The conference schedule this year was created based upon feedback from the conference that took place in 2011.
This year, the sold out conference, provided another way to enjoy the event. This special addition will happen on Thursday and Friday. Big Omaha will be providing a free live stream online for all who couldn’t not attend the event or who were unable to purchase tickets. For more information regarding the live web stream, click here.
We are excited to see the thoughts and inspirations that come out of Big Omaha 2012 this year and MDL Technology is proud to be a part of helping the entrepreneurship movement move forward in Kansas City.
For more information and details regarding Big Omaha 2012, take a look at their website.
KCnext Event at LIVESTRONG Sporting Park Draws Over 400 Attendees
May 2nd, 2012
By: Micah Pratt, director, and Valerie Jennings, CEO
KCnext has been attracting crowds across the metro, specializing in mobile apps, software development, IT and investors. Silicon Prairie has grown up! We had the privilege of attending the event last night with our clients and friends Steve Roatch, CEO of Twentyseven Global; Mark Dryer, president of MDL Technology; T.J. Bloom, COO of MDL Technology; Greg Elliott, business development director at 1102 GRAND; and Todd Applegate, general manager at 1102 GRAND. We also had the honor of meeting with the editor and news editor at The Pitch, speaking with some of the area’s most influential technology pro’s including Ryan Weber, who was recently named KCnext president.
Anytime you bring together like-minded individuals, you can expect great things to happen. It was great to see how strong the technology community in Kansas City has become and it’s always amazing to see people come together to share ideas on how to transform Kansas City into a technology hotspot. Events like these reinforce why Kansas City is in the running to be named the most entrepreneurial city in America.
I can’t wait until the next KCnext event, and I urge everyone to join! Check out their calendar, follow them on Twitter and “like” them on Facebook.
Valerie Jennings, CEO of JSMM and T.J. Bloom, COO of MDL Technology
About KCnext:
KCnext – The Technology Council of Greater Kansas City is the recognized regional technology effort for the Kansas City area. The Technology Council is promoting the region’s tech sector, supporting its members and galvanizing the tech industry.
MDL Technology, A Kansas City Managed Services IT Company, Recaps Startup Weekend Kansas City
April 26th, 2012
Posted by: T.J. Bloom, COO of MDL Technology
Two weekends ago, many Kansas City entrepreneurs, startup investors and technology professionals were privileged enough to participate in Startup Weekend Kansas City. Startup Weekend Kansas City not only gave those in attendance the chance discuss their business ideas and to see if their startup was a viable option but also to network with other area professionals.
Before the final presentations began, Royce Haynes, a Startup Weekend organizer, addressed the crowd and summed up why Kansas City was such an obvious fit for Startup Weekend. “Startup Weekend is all about bringing people together that don’t know each other. You get to meet people in the community and the teams who out of nowhere, come together and build a product over just one weekend,” Haynes said.
The Results
TutHopper, a web-based startup app that teaches programming and system architecture to children and adults through game play, walked away as the winner and won free office space from OfficePort for free months along with a booth as the Sprint Innovation Summit.
Adam Arredondo, a member of the TutHopper team which included entrepreneurs, developers, designers and coders, credited the win to how well the group worked together to reach a common goal. ”Our team was unselfish and hardworking with enough comic relief to keep everyone upbeat,” said Adam Arredondo of the group’s vibe. “It was a huge relief that the judges were able to look past the technical errors during our presentation and see the tremendous potential TutHopper really has.”
Second place went to Keyzio, an app that sends postcards to people interested in selling their homes to let them know that someone has shown interest in buying while third place was awarded to Grüple, an app that provides ways to conduct monetary reimbursements.
To learn more about Startup Weekend Kansas City and its results please visit www.kansascity.startupweekend.org
MDL Technology, A Kansas City Managed Services IT Company, Urges Tech Professionals To Attend CityCamp Kansas City
April 19th, 2012
By: T.J. Bloom, COO of MDL Technology
Next weekend, CityCamp Kansas City will bring together elected officials, civic leaders, urbanists, technology professionals and more to discuss innovation in Kansas City. MDL Technology, a Kansas City managed services IT company, urges anyone who is interested in how the intersection of local government, city life and technology impact our community to attend this event.
When: Saturday, April 28th 9:00a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Where: OfficePort, Kansas City
The “unconference” series will focus on four main objectives:
- Gather local government officials, municipal employees, experts, programmers, designers, citizens and journalists to share perspectives and insights about the cities in which they live
- Develop patterns for using the Web to facilitate local government transparency and effective local governance
- Foster communities of practice and advocacy on the role of the Web, mobile communication, online information, and open data in cities
- Create outcomes that participants will act upon after the event is over
As Kansas Citians, attendees can expect to walk away with a clear understanding of:
- How technology enables us to work together across jurisdictions
- How we can empower citizens to take a greater part in the local government
- How open source software and open data save taxpayer money
- How we can increase online service delivery despite shrinking budgets
For more information on CityCamp Kansas City please visit www.citycampkc.org.
KCnext, The Technology Council of Greater Kansas City, Announces IT Networking Event at LIVESTRONG Sporting Park
April 11th, 2012
Posted by: T.J. Bloom, COO of MDL Technology
KCnext- The Technology Council of Greater Kansas City recently announced that its next IT networking event will be held April 26, 2012, between 5:00-8:00 p.m. at LIVESTRONG Sporting Park.
This happy hour event will give area tech professionals the opportunity to connect with other industry leaders, exchange ideas and develop strategic and beneficial relationships and partnerships.
In addition, attendees will have the chance to tour the new sport facility and learn about the technologies implemented throughout its development. As always, Boulevard beer and food will be provided.
Register for this event here or visit www.kcnext.com to learn more about opportunities similar to this.
Startup Weekend Brings Together Kansas City Technology Companies and Entrepreneurs
April 5th, 2012
By: T.J. Bloom, COO of MDL Technology
What an exciting time to be part of the Kansas City technology community! This weekend, local entrepreneurs and business leaders will gather at Union Station to share ideas, educate the community and inspire action at Startup Weekend Kansas City.
Startup Weekends are 54-hour events where entrepreneurs and local developers, designers, marketers and other startup enthusiasts meet to discuss their business ideas to see if their startup is a viable option. The event kicks off Friday night with open mic pitches which allows attendees to first introduce their ideas and rally others to join their team. On Saturday and Sunday, these teams then focus on validating their ideas and practicing LEAN Startup Methodologies. Finally, on Sunday evening, teams present their demo to a panel of experts to receive feedback.
Adam Coomes, founder and CEO of Salt and organizer of Startup Weekend Kansas City, said, ”Startup Weekend is one of the most important events for Kansas City, especially as we gear up to become America’s Most Entrepreneurial City. Startup Weekend provides anyone, even those with day jobs, an opportunity to truly live in the startup world for a weekend, test an idea and bond with talented people. Real companies can come out of this weekend. There’s no better time to explore your passions.”
Benefits of Startup Weekend
1. Education
2. Networking
4. Learn new skills
5. Meet community leaders
6. Be part of a global community
Tickets to Startup Weekend Kansas City are $80 and will include meals, snacks and access to exclusive resources. If you want to just go Sunday and see all the presentations you can purchase a ticket for $15. Make sure you register here!
Watch this video to see how Startup Weekends are impacting entrepreneurs globally!
MDL Technology Urges Kansas City Tech Companies and Entrepreneurs To Apply For Flyover 50
March 29th, 2012
Posted by: T.J. Bloom, COO of MDL Technology
Kansas City has become a hub spot for entrepreneurs in a variety of industries including tech and art. We are excited to be part of a community that is under consideration as the most “entrepreneurial city” in the nation. Organizations such as PIPELINE, Think Big Partners and the Kauffman Foundation have played a huge role in molding startups to make Kansas City the success it is today.
Five Elms Capital, a venture capital and private equity firm, wants to highlight and honor the most exciting, beneficial and fastest growing companies in its Flyover 50 contest.
Why Apply?
1. Recruit top talent. Potential employees want to work for growing companies, and Flyover 50 honorees are recognized as the fastest growing in the middle of the country.
2. Increase Visibility. Members of the Flyover 50 benefit from local, national, and industry recognition as one of the premiere businesses in the middle of the country.
3. Network with other Flyover 50 winners. Cities in the middle of the country tend to be geographically spread out, and at times, entrepreneurs may feel isolated. The Flyover 50 was designed to allow honorees to share ideas, collaborate, and find ways to partner.
4. Validate success. Being honored as a member of the Flyover 50 validates your success to customers, employees, and potential partners.
5. Support the entrepreneurial cause in the Midwest.
Companies located in Kansas, Missouri, Iowa, Nebraska, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Colorado, Kentucky, Tennessee, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas are eligible to apply.
About Flyover 50
Five Elms Capital created the Flyover 50 as a way to highlight hardworking entrepreneurs who are shaping the next generation of the communities we love. Flyover 50 honorees are the fastest growing companies in the middle of the country. To be honored as a member of the Flyover 50, a company must have annual revenue greater than $1 million in 2011.
The vast majority of both media coverage and capital is on the coasts. The Flyover 50 recognizes and celebrates the hard work and achievements of those who are building exciting companies in the middle of the country. Our fast-growing entrepreneurial community, highlighted by the Flyover 50 winners, provides plenty of reasons to land here!
Think Big Partners Take Kansas City Technology Startups To Silicon Valley
March 22nd, 2012
Posted by: T.J. Bloom, COO of MDL Technology
Yesterday, 10 local technology startups left on a ‘field trip’ sponsored by Think Big Partners to Silicon Valley, an entrepreneurial mecca for technology businesses. The team at MDL Technology wants to wish each participant luck as they pitch their ideas to a number of investors at two different showcases.
Herb Sih, Think Big Partners co-founder, said, “The Think Big Field Trip is more than just an opportunity for Midwestern startups to get noticed and get funded. It’s also the chance for Think Big to go out to Silicon Valley and prove that big things are happening in the Midwest.”
Here is an article from Silicon Prairie News on the event as well as the startups participating.
Think Big Partners embarks on ‘field trip’ with 10 Midwestern startups
At a time of year when winter-weary travelers flock to sun-splashed beaches for spring break, 10 Midwestern startups are embarking on a coastal excursion of their own. But there won’t be much of a break involved in this spring trip.
Think Big Partners, the Kansas City, Mo.-based startup accelerator and business incubator, is chaperoning its Think Big Field Trip today through Friday, taking 10 startups to pitch in front of investors at two different showcases in Silicon Valley.
The 10 startups participating in the Field Trip (with descriptions courtesy of a Think Big Partners press release) are:
Audio Anywhere (Bixy): Audio Anywhere aims to increase ad revenues for online media platforms by a factor of 10. Ads are created through Bixy, the company’s self-service ad platform. Bixy is like Google AdWords for personalized interactive ads. Businesses utilize the Bixy toolkit to create their own ads in less than five minutes for as little as $50.
EyeVerify: Eveverify brings to market a software authentication module that will leverage the onboard cameras on mobile devices to take images of the blood vessels in the whites of the eyes to use as a unique biometric identifier, ultimately answering the question: who is holding the phone?
Klink Mobile: Klink Mobile enables the transfer of cellular airtime minutes and currency via a proprietary, cloud-based financial transaction platform.
LockerDome: Backed by Square co-founder, Jim McKelvey, LockerDome is one of the hottest sports startups in the country. LockerDome aims to be a person’s sports identity. The bet we’ve made is that people have three big personas in their life: social, professional, and recreational. Facebook covers social. LinkedIn covers professional. LockerDome wants to cover sports/recreational – an area that we believe people are more passionate about than any of the others and the only one of the three areas that completely transcends international borders.
LiveOn: LiveOn aims to be the brand that consumers and businesses trust to preserve their digital legacy.
ABPathfinder: ABPathfinder brings technology to Autism therapy by providing tools for therapists to use in their everyday assessments.
InvenQuery: InvenQuery is a technology platform with mobile application that seamlessly integrates inventory management and point-of-sale, with the ability to administer and publish an e-commerce website. IQ software is agile, scalable and easy to use while maintaining sophisticated reporting mechanisms managers depend on to measure success.
RollSale: RollSale has created a technology that will disrupt the traditional ways in which automotive dealers conduct their wholesale trade. RollSale is a communications platform where dealers are able to connect with other dealers in an environment that mimics the function and usability of common social networks.
SEIN Analytics: SEIN is bringing to market an open cloud application and database for analyzing asset-backed securities (ABS). SEIN is leveraging its proprietary web scraping and data mining technology to rapidly standardize data across all ABS categories. With $2.7 trillion in ABS outstanding, SEIN is directly addressing the pain points of this large market, while taking advantage of new regulatory proposals for increased transparency.
Kauzu: Kauzu is a company that seeks to innovate and empower the U.S. employment industry by providing a dynamic, online environment with unique tools to create meaningful, timely connections. Kauzu is like eHarmony.com meets eBay for the employment industry, which will make job search and hiring timely, active, and satisfying.
Gremln: Gremln.com makes it easy for businesses to easily and effectively market themselves and their products on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and LinkedIn. Gremln provides comprehensive messages management, success analytics and social media ROI analysis for businesses of every size. Engage, learn, and monitor return with Gremln.com.
Learn more about the two day trip here!
Kansas City IT Company Reviews 2012 Technology Entrepreneur Speakers Program Speakers
March 15th, 2012
Posted by: T.J. Bloom, COO of MDL Technology
Every year, Polsinelli Shughart sponsors a Technology Entrepreneur Speakers Program to highlight the area’s most innovative business leaders in the technology industry. The series highlights experiences and unique issues faced by entrepreneurs in the area. This is a great chance for tech enthusiasts and entrepreneurs alike to advance their knowledge as well as network with some of the most qualified professionals in the area.
This year the first three speakers have been announced starting with Maria Flynn, the CEO and president of Orbis Biosciences for March 20, 2012. Flynn combines her business development experience from her time at Cerner Corporation with her technical experience as an engineer to help Orbis Biosciences revolutionize the delivery and safety of products in the pharmaceutical, consumer product, food and specialty chemical industries.
The second scheduled event will be April 17, with Ben Milne, the co-founder and CEO of Dwolla taking stage. Dwolla is a new payment network that works with users and their banking relationships to offer a cheaper, safer and better payment experience.
The third speaker that has been scheduled for May 15, is Thad Langford, the former president of Zave Networks which was recently acquired by Google. Langford is currently an executive in residence at Open Equity Partners, a private equity firm that focuses on the wireless, communications and mobile Internet sectors.
All of the Technology Entrepreneur Speakers Program events are held at the offices of Polsinelli Shugart in Kansas City, Missouri, from 5:30-7:00 p.m. Tickets cost $25 in advance and $30 at the door. If you plan to attend, please register here in advance.