Reason #18: You'll get a free pass to Brand Fusion.

Each year, the day before Demo Day, we host Brand Fusion. It's how we pair big brands with startups to create "mutually beneficial partnerships":http://www.hardknoxlife.com/2013/10/14/innovation-generation-why-brand-startup-partnerships-are-a-must-for-marketers/. While not only open to Brandery companies, being in our program gets you in the door and a spot to pitch to the corporations you think should work with you. Last year, we held Brand Fusion at the Bengals' Paul Brown Stadium. Some of the brands that have attended in the past include Nike, Pepsi, Louisville Slugger, General Mills, Mars, Kroger, Luxottica, Scripps, and P&G’s brands.

"Brand Fusion was both inspiring and practical. It provided an incredibly efficient way to meet a variety of startups and identify where there were synergies to test and learn together. It also allowed me to build deeper knowledge of the technology landscape and strengthen my personal network."

- Brad Locke, The Nutro Company, Brand Fusion Attendee
"Apply to The Brandery":http://www.brandery.org/apply now.