FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 10, 2002

JENNIFER BOES, 302.672.6811

(Wilmington, Del.) -- Up to 50 of the East Coast's most promising new companies will connect with the Mid-Atlantic region’s top investors at the Annual Early Stage East Venture Capital Fair, June 17 and 18 at the First USA Riverfront Arts Center. Companies that have received up to $5 million in institutional venture capital are invited to apply for participation.

As part of the conference, selected companies in search of start-up financing will have the opportunity to meet one-on-one with venture capitalists, private and angel investors, and professional service providers. In addition, up to 24 entrepreneurs will be invited to formally present their business ventures to an audience investors and investment firms. Early Stage East will also offer educational workshops on building and maintaining a successful business.

John D. Wik, Director of the Delaware Economic Development Office, said, "Early Stage East plays a key role in supporting the continued development of our region's industry base by facilitating the growth and success of new business. We are very pleased that Delaware has had the opportunity to support and host this event since its inception in 1998."

The deadline for companies to apply for participation as a presenter or exhibitor is Friday, April 19, 2002. There is a $495 registration fee for selected companies. The cost for investors and other interested parties to attend the conference is $650 and $800 to attend the conference and education seminars. Those that register before May 1, 2002 receive a $100 discount. Registration forms are available online at www.earlystageeast.org.

Early Stage East was founded in 1998 as a nonprofit organization and has grown from a single-day conference to a year-round series of events. To date, entrepreneurs that have participated in Early Stage East's venture conferences have gone on to secure a total of more than $350 million in funding.