Startup Weekend Detroit is only a month away.  As a first time Startup Weekend participant, here are five reasons why I am excited to attend.

(1) This is more than just a networking event

Startup Weekend Detroit will be a great opportunity to meet some very talented, creative and motivated people.  However, we are not just getting together to exchange business cards or enjoy $2 drink specials.  We are trying to launch a company.

(2) Startup Weekends have already helped create some great concepts

While not all of them have gone to market, a lot of past Startup Weekend project ideas are just really freaking cool.

(3) My specialties will mean something

By participating in Startup Weekend Detroit, I can take my specific industry knowledge and put it to good use.

I’m a guy who lives and breathes marketing and PR.  But when it comes to software development or program architecture, I am totally lost.  This means that it will be my job to concentrate on getting the promotion engine running while the coding specialists and system admins are working their magic.  Full specialization at its finest!

(4) Detroit could use a bit of a boost right now

Between the Pistons, political snafus and layoffs, we really need some positive news coming out of this area.  Luckily, there are currently more than 25 people who feel the same way I do and are willing to donate 54 hours of their time to attempt something awesome.

(5) Bragging rights

The only way someone could come up with a more interesting story about how they spent their weekend would be if they could somehow incorporate the phrases “chainsaw bayonet” or “shark wrestling.”

We are attempting to brainstorm a compelling new idea and get a business off the ground three days.  Go ahead.  Try and beat that.

Are you intrigued yet?  Are you free March 27th through March 29th?  Then lend us your brain and your talent for a weekend…