President Praises Tulsa 'Basecamp For Entrepreneurs'

Earlier this year, the White House challenged the public to find ways to promote entrepreneurship.

The response was enormous, and Tuesday the president recognized some of the groups taking the lead, and one is in Tulsa.

It’s not even open yet, but 36 Degrees North is already getting a pat on the back from Washington D.C.

The white house recognized the “basecamp for entrepreneurs” as they are calling it, during Demo Day Tuesday afternoon.

It was featured as an example of how a type of co-working space is perfect for helping startups thrive.

While developing MotherRoad Travel, a high-end bus service between Tulsa and Oklahoma City, 33-year-old Jennifer Doverspike determined her small desk in the living room just wasn't cutting it.

"It is just so isolating. I look over and see the dishes that need to be done or yard work. There are just so many competing priorities," she said.

So, when she heard about 36 Degrees North, she jumped on the opportunity.

The 12,000 square foot space is still under construction but set to be finished in a few months, according to Executive Director, Dustin Curzon.

"It is cool to see the walls start coming up, and see the space take shape, and think how are people going to interact with the space which will be really exciting," he said.

The space will have a little bit of everything - private offices to rent, classrooms and co-working space – and there is already a long list of people wanting in.

"We've got web developers, and energy companies and a really diverse group of entrepreneurs," Curzon said.

36 Degrees North is also trying to make it easier for moms, like Doverspike, to get involved. They are discussing possible programs for the little ones while mom or dad is working.

"They are all working together and want you to succeed, and that is invaluable. I don’t think you can find that anywhere else," she said.

At Tuesday’s press conference, President Barack Obama highlighted the fact that if you want to get things started, now is the time.

"There has never been a better time to launch an idea here in the United States than right now," he said.

36 Degrees North is another example of a public and private partnership in Tulsa - with backing from the George Keyser Family Foundation, Lobeck Family Foundation, Tulsa Tech and the Tulsa Chamber.

You can learn more about getting involved, here.