In 2017, Jon Jones, a prominent entrepreneur and mentor, spearheaded a dynamic startup weekend event in Asheville that brought together a diverse group of innovators, investors, and mentors from all over the region. This startup weekend was a series of intense brainstorming sessions, collaborative discussions, and strategy meetings that left them invigorated and full of new ideas. Although he didn’t know it at the time, that event and the people he met would inspire Hatch This and lead him down the path to becoming a founder and leader of Hatch.

Jon and other passionate Hatch Innovation Hub founders set out to build what is now Hatch This—a vibrant event where entrepreneurs can collaborate refine existing projects, and connect with local startups that might be hiring. It serves as both a community and incubator designed to spark creativity, accelerate new ventures, and cultivate groundbreaking ideas. With opportunities for mentorship, networking, and collaboration, Hatch This awards cash prizes and welcomes entrepreneurs to pitch promising business ideas they’ve already been working on. It’s the ultimate entry point into the local startup ecosystem.

“The first event was chaotic but successful in creating valuable connections and a real sense of belonging,” he recalls. “Many participants have found co-founders and job opportunities, and as a mentor, I’ve seen firsthand how this event reveals talent in a way that traditional interviews can’t.”

While Jon served for five amazing years on the Hatch board and has since passed the reins to a dedicated team, he remains enthusiastic about the future of Hatch This. “The dedication of our volunteers has been crucial. Managing everything required considerable coordination, and I’m thrilled to see what this year’s team will achieve.”

Looking forward to Hatch This 2024, Jon is excited for the enhancements being introduced: “We’re refining our approach to ensure a seamless experience for all attendees. This year promises an action-packed weekend with improved ticketing and engagement systems.”

For those eager to accelerate their startup or dive into the Asheville entrepreneurial scene, Jon emphasizes, “Hatch This is the best opportunity all year. It’s an incredible chance to network, gain mentorship, and be part of a special community. Don’t miss it—it’s completely worth your time.”

Hatch This is powered by Hatch AVL Foundation, Venture Asheville, and AVL Digital Nomads. The event will be hosted at the Hatch Innovation building at 45 S. French Broad Ave. The closing pitch event on Sunday evening will take place at The Mule/Devil’s Foot Beverage.