DMV Petri Dish

Despite significant advantages and investment into the region to grow the biotech sector in the D.C. Area, we still lag behind the current powerhouses of biotech in Boston and San Francisco in terms of number of startups developed in the area and in venture capital investments in biotech companies in the region. The DMV Petri Dish name derives from the standard scientific equipment name “Petri Dish” or a plate made to culture (grow) various microbes such as yeast and bacteria. DMV is an acronym for DC, Maryland, Virginia and is a popular slang term to describe the Washington D.C. Metropolitan Area. The philosophy of the DMV Petri Dish is reflective of the real outcomes of various microbes when combined together in a single dish. In a Petri Dish, a group of a single origin bacteria or yeast are referred to as a colony. We aim to become a collective of colonies representing different DIY-Bio and maker groups in the D.C. Area. The preferred outcome of placing multiple colonies (groups) in a single dish is to observe interactions (collaborations) and crossbreeding (intergroup projects) develop over time. The intended results of DIY-Bio collaborations and crossbreeding is to have unique and innovative projects, develop a sense of self-assurance in members, have fun while doing science, and grow a startup pre-incubator environment. We offer: - A community of scientists, inventors, and tech enthusiasts - Presentations on a variety of topics in science and tech - Regular meetups for people to work and network - A transparent and helpful community of minds to help build your ideas