The free events, which will be coming to other major cities in 2013, include networking, community presentations, and talks – and, of course, free food and beer. They take place on the last Friday of every month. For example, newcomers are encouraged to introduce themselves and explain what they need help with. Then, community members jump in and offer suggestions or assistance. This can be a huge relief to entrepreneurs who felt like they were going at it alone, especially in communities outside Silicon Valley. Free Lunch Friday was cofounded by Beckett and Nick Bergelt, both investors, advisors, and entrepreneurs in California. It started informally about five years ago when Beckett began inviting the startup community in Grand Rapids, Michigan, for burgers and beer at his office. After a few years, they were seeing as many as 300 people come to eat and chat. The organization is run as a nonprofit, because the idea is to give back. It’s a passion project for Beckett. The next city to launch will be Washington, DC, on February 21. See the map for other locations, and inquire about becoming a Free Lunch Friday leader.
