Digital Divide
A recent Congressional proposal that would legally require copyright-protection controls in all hardware could either go nowhere because of a battle between competing interests, or it could open up a new chapter in an old tug of war between Silicon Valley and Hollywood. The question being pushed is whose responsibility is it to ensure that content is distributed securely?
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~Other Articles - Sponsored By

Proposed anti-piracy bill draws fire (CNet)
Several government and industry leaders this weekend criticized proposed legislation that calls on hardware makers to help protect Hollywood's interests, saying lawmakers should not decide the tech industry's "winners and losers."
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Book Excerpt: Dynamic Leader, Adaptive Organization: Ten Essential Traits for Managers
By Larraine Segil
Change is the buzzword of this decade. The problem is that most people don't want to recognize or accept it. Adapting to change is the hardest thing an individual can do. For an organization, it is agony.
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~Larta Announcements

CalTIP solicitation Open
California technology companies can receive up to $250,000 in state venture funds to bring their products to market. If you have been awarded or have applied for a federal R&D grant, you are eligible for the California Technology Investment Partnership (CalTIP) matching grant. Last year Larta helped award $2.4 million in grants. There is no cost to apply, and Larta can assist you with your application.

CalTIP Workshops - Only One Class Left!

These hands-on workshops will help guide you through the CalTIP application process and increase your chance for success. You will receive:

~Essential tips that are not in the solicitation
~Information on the application process
~Advice from a former CalTIP winner: how the company applied, won and benefited
~Details about the review process, and tips to increase your chances for success

Starting In May, Larta University - New Series
Larta University helps put companies and innovators on the fast track to growth and success. Workshops feature real-world instruction from successful business people, entrepreneurs, investors, and experts. Larta University delivers quality educational programs, focusing on practical skills for businesses. The Entrepreneurship 101 series starts in May. Sign up for the full nine-part series now.
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The Nano Republic Conference 2002 - Coming this July
The Nano Republic Conference is a one-day Larta event featuring world-class speakers and highlighting California-wide nanotechnology efforts. The Nano Republic Conference will serve as a serious examination of the current state of nanotechnology and focus on its near-term developments and constraints. The Nano Republic Conference will bring together all current industry segments and leaders from industry, academia, labs and the capital markets. The Nano Republic Conference will also feature an in-depth discussion of the following topics: nanotechnology in life sciences, information technology, materials, fabrication, and sensors and diagnostics.
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~Available now from Larta:

Hollywood Unstrung 2

Historically, the real power in the entertainment industry has always resided where most of the capital strength is centered-the major film studios, TV networks, and "big" recording labels. However, over the last few years, the development of new digital technologies has given way to the possibility of a shift in the control of power in Hollywood. The creative and production processes have already been influenced deeply by digital technology. Distribution is next. While the paradigm shifts, new concerns arise.
free executive summary >
purchase the report >

This events calendar is provided as a service by Larta about events vetted and endorsed by Larta.

April 29-May 1: National Nanotechnology Initiative: From Vision Towards Commercialization, in Washington D.C.
The National Nanotechnology Initiative, the Federal government's investment in the future of nanotechnology, serves as a major force in shaping the direction of the nation's nanotechnology research and development activities. Dr. Michael Roco and key representatives from the departments and agencies participating in the NNI, the six nanoscale science and engineering centers, and several important government laboratories will provide a comprehensive, in-depth status report and outlook for NNI research, including budgets, priorities, research projects, outcomes and prospects for commercialization at the upcoming conference. Speakers include Lynn Foster, Larta's Director of Technology Consulting.
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May 6-7: Wireless Internet 2002 @ UCLA
This second annual Wireless Internet 2002 conference will cover vital topics and technologies essential for the development of business models and platforms in the wireless sector. Join key wireless industry leaders, researchers and executive-level attendees to discuss how innovations in mobile technology will impact enterprises and businesses.
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May 7: AIP Presents: Web Application Development
Presented by AIP-LA and Guidance, this special workshop on best practices for web application development, presented by presenter will be Adam Kolawa, Parasoft co-founder/CEO, will describe the components that make up a web application, then explore the mechanics involved in assembling an effective Web application out of these disparate components. Dr. Kolawa will also examine how Web team members can work together to assemble a reliable Web application as efficiently as possible. Members: $25, Non-members: $35, 6-9 pm, 4136 Del Rey Ave., Marina Del Rey, To RSVP send an email to vkotrappa@guidance.com.

May 11: Caltech-MIT Enterprise Forum Workshop Series, Legal and Financial Foundations of Venture Success
While technology, investors and customers might be your greatest concern, the success of high-tech ventures also requires a solid legal and financial foundation. Too often these critical elements are given casual attention by hard-charging entrepreneurs—often to their subsequent regret. This two-session workshop will cover the legal and financial issues bearing most critically on venture success. Each workshop provides a balanced and critical review of traditional and cutting-edge practices by experienced attorneys, accountants, and entrepreneurs.
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May 7 - June 14: Meeting the Growth Challenge: A Map Through No Man's Land
Starting this May, the Kauffman Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership will sponsor a seven-session workshop, live over the Internet, to help growing companies take control of their operations and successfully continue their growth. The program, Meeting the Growth Challenge: A Map Through No Man's Land, is based on a highly successful seminar developed by the Tatum CFO and on several Kauffman Center resources. It includes live sessions in which entrepreneurs can interact with a rapid growth expert and one another in a workshop format. The program also includes an organized library of materials that entrepreneurs can use on their own time, as well as 20 minutes of personal consultation with the expert.
more information >

May 10: EA Conference 2002: Rebuilding Blocks for Entrepreneurship
Hosted by the Entrepreneur Association at the Anderson School at UCLA, the EA Conference is a day of education, discussion, and networking designed to help entrepreneurs build more successful organizations. The afternoon's industry panels will allow participants to explore some of today's most exciting growth areas, including biotechnology, sustainable energy, real estate, and social entrepreneurship. Victor Hwang, Larta's COO, will be speaking at this event.
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May 13: Tech Coast Angels Fast Pitch Competition
Tech Coast Angels are hosting their second annual Fast Pitch Competition. The top 15 applicants will present live to a panel of TCA members and business professionals who will rate them on presentation and business opportunity. The winner will be scheduled for a full screening session of Tech Coast Angels and receive three 2-hour coaching sessions by TCA. Second place will receive two 2-hour coaching sessions, and third place one 2-hour coaching session; both will be eligible for a full screening after coaching if their presentations.
more information >

May 23: SDRTA's Big eSchmooze 2002
Big eSchmooze was the first large-scale networking event for San Diego's tech community, and has consistently shattered attendance records, topping 1,600 attendees last August. The event is well-known for its variety of participants...from scientific start-ups to sophisticated public companies, you'll see a huge cross-section at the eSchmooze.
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May 30-31: NASA Commercial Technology Office: NASA Presentation & Phase I Proposal Preparation Workshop
This workshop emphasizes the fundamentals of the NASA program.
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Larta's full event calendar >