`Launch Pad` for Early Stage Technology Companies Begins Taking Applications

Idea Finishing School Matches Entrepreneur Graduates With Pre-Screened
Technology Investors
SAN ANTONIO--(Business Wire)--
An exciting opportunity for early stage technology companies and investors, the
Idea Finishing School debuted today in San Antonio. Culminating from the vision
of local entrepreneurs Dean McCall, Rudy De La Garza and Linda Mills, the
Finishing School was created to identify and foster growth in high-potential
technology companies. The School will also pair these entrepreneurs with
investors interested in finding the best technology investments.

The concept of the Idea Finishing School arose from a need for investors to find
high potential technology ideas early and also to help entrepreneurs realize
their dreams.

"It's really just our vision of helping investors and technology entrepreneurs
be more successful. We help investors to invest technology dollars wisely, and
remove hurdles that get in the way of great ideas," said Dean McCall.

The Idea Finishing School (IFS) is located in the San Antonio Technology Center
(SATC), a facility that promotes high-tech growth by providing an environment
for technology-related companies to thrive through its unique infrastructure and
design.

IFS will provide approximately $60,000 of critical services and support to early
stage companies during a three- to six-month period.

"Candidates for the program are scrutinized closely by the IFS executive team to
identify potential market disrupters, valid technology and solid financial
structure. Each selected candidate is reviewed by our 16-plus advisors and
accredited investors," said Rudy De La Garza.

IFS' services include office space, professional and administrative services.
But most importantly, at the conclusion of the school, IFS entrepreneurs will
have the opportunity to present their polished and groomed products/services to
receptive, pre-screened investors.

"For too long, the playbook for tech startups said they should move north to
Austin. The Idea Finishing School is here to change that mindset. IFS is
providing the much-needed support to startups to get beyond the idea stage and
become real businesses," said Dirk Elmendorf, Rackspace Hosting founder and IFS
advisor.

* Early stage technology companies interested in participating should email
candidates@ideafinishingschool.com. Applications are being accepted now.
* Investors should email investors@ideafinishingschool.com or call
866-610-4332.

San Antonio Startups Video about the Idea Finishing School

(http://www.sanantoniostartups.com/2009/08/26/read-to-launch-in-san-antonio-ideagins-finishing-school-getting-great-ideas-to-the-finishing-line/)

Idea Finishing School, San Antonio
Linda Mills, 210-618-2836
linda@ideafinishingschool.com
www.ideafinishingschool.com

Copyright Business Wire 2009