A Hub of Innovation
ETHDenver 2023 emerged as a significant event, drawing thousands of developers, hackers, and blockchain enthusiasts to the vibrant city of Denver, Colorado. From February 24 to March 5, the city buzzed with energy as participants from across the globe gathered with one mission: to collaborate, innovate, and perhaps snag some investment along the way.
Searching for Shelter
As anyone who’s tried to book a hotel in a bustling city during a major conference knows, good luck finding a reasonably priced room at the last minute. Enter the “hacker houses,” grassroots operations where sleep is optional, networking is mandatory, and friendships blossom over cold coffee and coding marathons.
Meet Jessy: The Architect of Collaboration
At the helm of one of these innovative hubs is Jessy, who organized four hacker houses accommodating around fifty enthusiasts. Meeting with Jessy and her co-organizer Waylon Jepsen on February 28, it became clear that this was no ordinary meetup; it was a carefully curated experience designed to foster real connections.
- Goals of the Hacker Houses:
- Facilitate networking opportunities
- Encourage collaboration on crypto projects
- Build lasting relationships in the industry
From COVID to Collaborations
Interestingly enough, Jessy’s journey began at the last ETHDenver conference in 2022, where despite testing positive for COVID-19 (don’t worry, they still managed to connect), she noticed a need for accommodation. It was a moment of serendipity that turned into a full-blown initiative.
A Diverse Bunch
What makes these hacker houses special is the diverse mix of participants. From fresh college grads eager to break into the scene to seasoned professionals from academia working on cryptography, the energy is palpable. Jessy mentions, “It’s about playing long-term games with long-term people,” and it’s evident that this isn’t just a fleeting connection.
Choosing the Right Fit
The selection process for participants goes beyond skills; it’s about vibe. The team strives to find those who are genuine and scrappy, ensuring that the atmosphere remains conducive to creativity and innovation.
A Look Ahead
With ETHDenver wrapping up on March 5, it’s clear that the innovative spirit carries on, with upcoming events like Paris Blockchain Week and Consensus in Austin promising to keep the momentum going. Although specific attendance figures weren’t available, early reports indicate over 30,000 eager participants registered, and we can only imagine the number of connections made over cold pizza and high-energy discussions.
The Bottom Line
Jessy’s Hacker House isn’t just about crashing for the night; it’s a breeding ground for ideas, projects, and the potential to change the future of blockchain technology. Who knew a simple house could have such a lasting impact? Next year, the coffee may still be cold, but the innovations are sure to be hot!
