Bill Gates once famously said that "if I only had $2 left, I'd spend $1 on PR."
Well, 1871 is spending that proverbial $1.
The digital startup hub has partnered with global public relations and communications firm Burson-Marsteller to provide new training programs for its members.
“1871’s primary focus is on helping entrepreneurs develop successful businesses,” said 1871 CEO Howard A. Tullman in a release. "We are excited for Burson-Marsteller to bring its public relations expertise to the 1871 community."
The firm will help emerging startups and entrepreneurs improve and enhance their messaging through a variety of free courses focused on storytelling and content development. The series of workshops will put members directly in touch with industry veterans so that they can uncover and develop the communication strategy that best suits their business.
“Determining a communications strategy is a necessary part of any company’s business plan, but it is critical to ensure it happens at the right time in the development lifecycle,” said Erica Swerdlow, Burson-Marsteller’s Executive Vice President in Chicago.
This announcement marks the first of many strategic programming partnerships that 1871 will be rolling out over the next couple of months to benefit its members. Tullman has recently reiteratedhis intention to weed out startups that aren't gaining traction and these educational workshops are set up to facilitate growth and success. 1871 will be expanding to 75,000 square feet soon and would prefer to avoid empty desks.
Fortunately, they have a global leader to help keep them full.
"It is an exciting time for start-ups in Chicago and we are delighted to work with 1871 to help build businesses in the region.”