With apologies to Sir Isaac …

The first law for start-ups = an idea at rest stays at rest

Whatever your plans are for the next big thing, be it software, hardware, service or other – you cannot just sit on your idea waiting and hoping for something to happen. Ideas are not meant to be static; they have to be worked on, challenged and sometimes scrapped in favor of something better. Some minimal level of activity and momentum are critical to the on-going development and maturity of your idea and all too often I meet wannabe entrepreneurs and potential start-up founders who are frustrated with the lack of interest in their idea only to find that they have not made any effort to move forward since their initial scribble on a napkin.

If you’re not motivated enough to break a sweat trying to test and improve your idea, why should anyone else listen, assist or invest. Show that you care enough to make your idea better and if you are unsure of your next steps or lack the resources to get there, ask for help.

In Tampa / Central Florida there are several places start-ups can turn to for support and encouragement. IdeaField Coworking was created to assist freelancers and entrepreneurs by providing a comfortable, collaborative workspace where ideas can develop and grow. Another resource is STAR Tec’s TEC Launch program which is specifically geared towards innovators and entrepreneurs who want to validate their ideas and create cool new products. On November 6^th, TEC Launch is hosting a workshop for anyone that has a good idea and has the motivation to make it better. Only 20 ideas will be accepted for this hands-on workshop, so please submit your IdeaCamp applications ASAP (deadline is October 21^st).