DC Offers Free Rent for Innovators

DC is transforming from a government town to a technology hub and this year, DC wants to showcase its growth at SXSW.

The Washington DC Economic Partnership (WCDEP) has partnered with the DC tech community to collectively promote the District’s growing technology economy  at SXSW, the premier trade show for creative industries and innovation.

“SXSW offers an extraordinary podium that will help provide the District access to the world’s leading creative audiences so we can attract much needed talent and investment to DC’s existing tech companies,” said Keith Sellars, President/CEO of WDCEP. “The Delegation has a packed schedule over three days that includes meetings and networking events with creative industry leaders, financiers and entrepreneurs.”

The WCDEP has rented an entire restaurant just across the street from the Austin Convention Center. The We DC House on 340 East 2nd Street will be open during the interactive festivities between March 13th -17th.  During this time, DC partners can activate their brands, ideas, hold panels and more.

In an effort to promote the District as a start-up friendly business community for technology companies and to celebrate its upcoming presence in Austin, WDCEP today announces its “Live Free in DC” contest. For three months, Washington, D.C. will host one start-up technology company to build their dream in the nation’s capital. From housing and workspace to culinary and cultural experiences, D.C. invites entrepreneurs to see what it’s like to turn a vision into a reality with a little help from the District of Columbia. The selected winner will receive travel to the District, three months of housing, workspace accommodations, and a variety of entertainment packages so that they can experience all that Washington, D.C. has to offer.