1776, the downtown startup hub that launched earlier this year with a grant from D.C. Mayor Vincent Gray's administration, has recruited Gray staffer David Zipper to head its for-profit venture arm.
Zipper was instrumental in mustering the mayor's support behind the initiative located at 1133 15th St. NW, which combines co-working, startup education, events and mentorship under one roof and brand. 1776 has so far received some $380,000 from the District, $200,000 of which went toward the initial 15,000 square foot build-out, with the rest funding the Challenge Cup global startup competition.