I spend much of my time traveling. When I’m not traveling I’m often working with start-ups to help them get off the ground successfully. Through avenues such as INC.spire, the Reston Chamber’s incubator where I’m chairman, and a myriad of technical communities I build and maintain relationships with entrepreneurs. One of the mysterious and compelling aspects of american commerce is the way in which ideas can become successful businesses. Incubators play a role in this process.

Incubators can play a role in fostering success but the role varies widely. Previously I’ve visited incubators in Rockville and College Park, MD, in Akron, OH and in Adams Morgan, D.C. In important ways, these facilities were more different than similar. Some required more funding than others. Some had collaborative cultures while others seemed a collection of silos. Some were affiliated with important support groups while others were independent. The variety intrigues me so I decided to learn more.

Each winter, from my base in northern Virginia, I explore the southern U.S. This time my goals extended to include several visits along the west coast. “Why not weave in a variety of incubators along the way?” I asked myself. Therein lies the germ of the idea that launched this site.

This blog chronicles my visits to incubators as I criss-cross the continent on my six-week road trip. What I hope to see is a variety of successful operations and to learn what makes them so, if I can discern the magic. Regardless, I’ll be growing what I know about business incubation with expectations of transfering best practices back to the D.C. area.