MIT Enterprise Forum

The MIT Enterprise Forum is a public clinic for entrepreneurial, growing, technology-based companies. The Forum was formed in 1978 under the auspices of the MIT Alumni Association, and has grown to 24 chapters worldwide. The MIT Enterprise Forum in New Hampshire, which is run as a joint program of the MIT Alumni Association and New Hampshire High Technology Council, provides both strong educational content and direction, as well as important networking opportunities.

The Forum offers emerging companies, at critical stages in their development, an opportunity to obtain consul from experts and top business leaders regarding possible actions in achieving their goals and objectives.

Through presentation of a business plan to a panel of experts (who have been provided previously with the company’s business plan) the CEO of an emerging company receives vital feedback on his/her strategy, planning, marketing and financial orientation. The panelists participate without pay. In an objective and analytical session, members of the panel comment on the business plan. The panelists are specifically recruited for the particular case presentation. Typically, panelists will include at least one venture capitalist or angel, or financial institution representative. Other panelists are chosen for their familiarity with the industry or strategic issues being addressed. The audience represents the spectrum of entrepreneurs, individuals from small and large business, as well as individuals interested in business development, investing, etc.

At each case study Forum, a CEO presents his/her company history, current challenges, strategies to meet the challenges, and business plan overview. A panel of selected specialists (usually three or four) comments on the presentation and gives the CEO advice.

CEOs of the companies that have been presented report benefits to their companies including:

• expanded exposure to the business public,
• hearing advice of expert panelists,
• hearing constructive criticism,
• gaining insight into how others think about their businesses,
• preparing for presentations to general business audiences,
• introduction to strategic alliances and future board members.

Some CEOs report that making an MIT Forum presentation has supported the process of investment in their companies. Most CEOs who make Forum presentations are guiding their companies through a transition of some kind and want to gather additional information and resources for managing that transition.

The Forum presentations are open to the public, and members of the audience are also invited to present and offer additional advice or opinions.

We are fortunate in New Hampshire that so many people of recognized expertise are willing to share their knowledge and experience. The high quality of our presenting companies, session moderators and panelists has contributed to many successful presentations.

If you wish to become involved as a presenter, moderator or panelist, please contact Hollis McGuire, 603-546-1551.