What is the Gig Tank?
This summer we’re inviting 10-15 students to join The Gig Tank. Part start-up accelerator, part think tank for students with the ambition and skills to dream-up the next disruptive gigabit businesses and apps that will utilize and take advantage of the country’s first and largest gigabit fiber optic network.
The Gig Tank student track is powered by the Lamp Post Group — a Venture Incubator that combines the talent of a successful start-up incubator with the financial capabilities of a venture capital firm to create a system that encourages fast, independent company growth.
Why should I apply to the Gig Tank?
This is a chance to pioneer the future of the internet, when bandwidth is no longer a barrier. We want you to think big, collaborate with other brilliant students and imagine what the world will be like when gigabit bandwidth is ubiquitous.
And if that weren’t enough, there’s a $50,000 cash prize for the best gigabit idea to come out of the Gig Tank. You’ll also have several opportunities to work with mentors and pitch your idea to VCs and Angels from around the country. So that’s why.
What happens once I’m there?
Like any Think Tank, on day one we’ll want you to start thinking and brainstorming what’s possible and how gigabit bandwidth speeds will change the world as we know it.
You’ll then start collaborating with other students to build prototypes and start testing your gigabit ideas on a live test market of residential customers and businesses here in Chattanooga.
Throughout the summer there will also be several social gatherings and seminars with prospective angel investors, service providers, mentors, influencers, and community leaders. At the end of the Gig Tank you’ll pitch your idea to VCs and investors, and the best gigabit idea will win a 50,000 cash prize.
Who can apply?
We are looking for students, both undergrads and graduate level students, who are eager to spend a summer in Chattanooga and help pioneer the future of the internet. If you are not a student but think you have what it takes and want to join us, we’d like to hear from you, too.
Who is an ideal candidate for the Gig Tank?
Developers, engineers, hackers, designers, digital ninjas and dreamers. We’re looking for people who have big ideas and the skills to help build them. The more experience you have and the more projects you’ve worked on the better. But you tell us, why are you an ideal candidate for the Gig Tank?
Do I need a team?
No. We’re only accepting applications from individual students. But if you do have some brilliant friends or partners who you’ve worked with, let us know and make sure they apply too.
Do I need to be in Chattanooga the whole summer?
Yes. This is a full-time program with weekly events and check-ins and lodging provided for extent of the program. However, we’re not here to babysit you, and we’re not tracking your every move. Once you’re here, your level of success and what you accomplish is up to you.
What will be expected of me once I’m there?
We expect you to work hard and think big, collaborate with other students and have a product to demo on Pitch Night. We also expect you to have a blast, because playing with the world’s fastest Internet for a whole summer is our idea of a fun time.
Is housing provided?
Yes.
What about food and travel?
If you’re accepted to the Gig Tank you’ll need to find a way to get to Chattanooga for the summer.
And once you’re here you’ll need to feed and clothe yourself. But there will be several events and social gatherings where food will be provided. If a hardship exists and this presents an issue, accommodations through our generous sponsors can be worked out on a case-by-case basis.
Where are the Gig Tank Student Headquarters?
The Gig Tank command center is located in downtown Chattanooga at the Lamp Post Group’s loft office space. You will be provided with the fastest gigabit per second broadband speed in the country. Access to the Gig Labs lets you tap directly into the fiber grid. You’ll also have access to conference rooms and larger workspace when needed. As other operational or organizational needs arise in the development of the business, we will help you meet those needs.
What do I need to bring?
You need a laptop and any another tech toys you think will come in handy.
Any fun stuff to see or do while I’m in Chattanooga?
Oh yeah, did we mention Chattanooga is a scenic city surrounded by mountains, world-class kayaking rapids, and hiking trails.
Recently voted best city to live by Outside Magazine, downtown Chattanooga is five minutes from caving, rock climbing, mountain biking, and boating; another 20 minutes from olympic-class whitewater rafting and hang gliding.
If you’re more of a downtown type, you can walk or take the free electric shuttle to dozens of restaurants, bars, parks and museums. There’s a good chance by the end of the summer you won’t want to leave.
Who can I contact if I have any other questions?
Website: Thegigcity.com
Email:[email protected]