D.C. Tech Hub 1776 Fetes Independence Day During 'Stars, Stripes & Startups' Celebration

NORTHWEST -- It was all 'Stars, Stripes & Startups' at the 1776 penthouse on Tuesday evening, as the D.C.-based technology hub threw a festively-themed Independence Day bash.

Hundreds of guests -- many clad in various shades of patriotic red, white, and blue -- crowded the sold-out celebration, which boasted a buffet of savory BBQ treats and a Dolci Gelati designer gelato bar, in addition to live music by the Doug Segree Band.

As if toasting the birth of the country wasn't enough of a reason to throw a party (the organization takes its name from the year during which the then 13 American colonies declared independence from Great Britain, after all), the night also served as a launch party for a groundswell of new 1776 initiatives.

To be sure, earlier in the day, the incubator platform announced a trio of new programs, including a global membership program that provides virtual access to 1776's unique blend of connections, content, and community and a 'Startup Federation' that establishes of global network of incubator programs across the globe.

By far the most 'revolutionary' (excuse the 1776 pun) initiative, however, was the announcement of a new startup competition that will span 16 leading cities around the world. Labeled the Challenge Cup, this project will eventually bring 64 regional tournament winners to Washington in May 2014, for a week-long festival that celebrates entrepreneurship and innovation (and an ultimate Challenge Cup champion).

But big ideas is nothing new for 1776, which has been making headlines ever since it was first founded at the beginning of the year by Evan Burfield and Donna Harris. Through a unique mix of mentorship, corporate connections (Microsoft and Comcast are both sponsors), access to capital, and media attention, the organization seeks nothing less than to reinvent the world by building the next generation of startups.

And a better way of celebrating America's birthday would be hard to find.