Collaborate with the Puerto Rican entrepreneurial ecosystem

Some people might’ve thought that hurricane María would destroy the developing entrepreneurial ecosystem in Puerto Rico, however a year after one of the worst natural disasters in U.S. history, the founders and young companies in the island have shown what it means to be #HurricaneStrong. What we’ve seen is fast-growing innovation born out of devastating conditions. Resilience has been the word of the year and we’ve been proud witnesses of what it means for the startup and small business community. The drive and persistence of the entrepreneurs is what inspired us to launch a fundraising sale of our Hurricane Strong t-shirt. 
 
After the hurricane hit, uncertainty reigned among parallel18’s team, our Gen. 4 startups, and alumni based in Puerto Rico. The awareness that was spread by news outlets and the Puerto Rican diaspora, about the precarious conditions the island was in, prompted many people to look for ways to help. The support our program received from the international startup community during adverse times allowed us and our entrepreneurs to continue operations. And what’s more, inspired us to create pre18, a new pre-accelerator to encourage Puerto Rican innovators to stay and develop their projects in the island.

So, now, a year after the events that seemingly brought us down, we say: we’re here and we’re stronger than ever. Our story is one of thousands and if you or someone you know can relate or want to celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit in Puerto Rico, wear your strength and share your experience by putting on our Hurricane Strong t-shirt. This way you’re not only contributing to the ecosystem, but you’re making sure Puerto Rico is not forgotten. Earnings will go to a fund dedicated to coordinate and promote educational and training events for entrepreneurs.The sense of community that the aftermath of the hurricane sparked needs to stay for good. Together we’re invincible and we’ve proved that. 
 
We invite you to join a movement that supports emerging businesses in order to stimulate the island’s economy. When you buy our t-shirt, you get to fiercely say that you’re part of Puerto Rico’s road to recovery and eventual success.

So, really, what are you waiting for to get yours?