ConnectWise PitchIT | Helping Build Communities and Relationships in the Startup World
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Show Website: https://mspbusinessschool.com/)

Guests:

Sean Lardo - https://www.linkedin.com/in/seanlardo/) Andrea Barrow - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreabarrow/) Sam Hoyen - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-hoyen-4711611a4/)

Company: ConnectWise (Invent) Website: https://www.connectwise.com/theitnation/pitchit) Today’s episode features an in-depth discussion with the Connectwise PitchIT team, including Sean Lardo, Andrea Barrow, and Sam Hoyen. As they gear up for IT Nation Connect, the team shares the excitement and challenges of the PitchIT competition, where innovative startups compete for the top spot.

This year’s PitchIT program saw a diverse group of finalists, each representing different tech industry segments. Sean Lardo emphasizes the evolution and improved quality of contestants, while Andrea Barrow highlights the importance of community and collaboration among participants. The conversation delves into the unique strengths of each finalist and the supportive environment that PitchIT fosters, encouraging innovation and growth.

The episode also explores the Connectwise Invent program, a crucial pathway for vendors to integrate with the Connectwise platform and gain the coveted stamp of approval. Andrea Barrow explains how the program supports vendors through technical guidance and security reviews. Sam Hoyen shares his excitement as a new team member and underscores the importance of community connections formed through events like ChannelCon's Crow’s Nest.

Key Takeaways: 

•  PitchIT Program Evolution: The quality and diversity of PitchIT contestants have significantly improved, showcasing a wide range of innovative solutions.
• Community Building Participants benefit from forming valuable connections with peers who are going through similar business challenges.
• Invent Program: Connectwise’s Invent program provides essential technical and security support for vendors, ensuring high-quality integrations.
• Importance of Pitch Practice: Competitors need to master different types of pitches (30-second, 1-minute, 5-minute) for various engagement scenarios.
• Event Highlights: The success of ChannelCon’s Crow's Nest event demonstrates the power of networking and community support.

Host: Brian Doyle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briandoylevciotoolbox/) 

Sponsors vCIOToolbox: https://vciotoolbox.com)