More than 400 people are expected to attend what could be the largest startup event yet on the Peninsula on Saturday, an event organizer said.
"Ignite Virginia: Virginia Shark Tank" is expected to be both entertainment for spectators and a chance for startup businesses to attract investment, mentors or other help, Ignition Center founder Lance Zaal said.
The Ignition Center, a not-for-profit business accelerator that launched in Williamsburg last year, hopes to host the event once or twice a year, Zaal said.
The city of Williamsburg supported the event by allowing Ignition to host it at the Stryker Center at 412 N. Boundary St., Zaal said. About 120 people, including participants, will be in the main event room in the City Council Chambers where the judges will interact with the entrepreneurs while another 300 people are registered to watch the event as its videoed and streamed in the exhibit hall and other parts of the building.
