Start Summit: Innovating to protect elderly from online fraud

by Jane Margesson
Executive director
AARP Maine

While new technology has opened up avenues for communication, learning, and entertainment, it has also given rise to a serious problem — online fraud. Older adults, in particular, are often targeted by predators seeking to exploit their trust and lack of familiarity with the digital landscape.

How might we develop a solution to protect older adults from online fraud?

The Roux Institute, in partnership with Maine Connectivity Authority, AARP Maine, the University of Maine Center on Aging, and Foster Center for Innovation, invites you to our upcoming Start Summit – the opportunity to creatively address this challenge and transform ideas into action.

At this fun and interactive event, you’ll experience what it’s like to build a startup solution in a very short time – all with the support of facilitators and mentors and fueled by good food!

On Friday, you’ll hear from a panel of business and cybersecurity experts on the topic of the challenge and opportunity of protecting older adults from online fraud.

On Saturday, participants will develop an innovative idea with a randomized team and participate in educational entrepreneurship workshops. The day culminates in a pitch competition with cash prizes followed by more snacks and networking.

Members of the first place team will receive $500 each, and members of the second place team will receive $200 each. Winners will also have the opportunity for ongoing entrepreneurial support from the Roux Institute as-needed.

No prior experience is necessary to participate. This Start Summit is open to all. Registration is required. Registration includes summit participation, educational workshops, food and beverage, networking events, and more. Note: Participants who have won prior Start Summits will not receive cash prizes.

The summit will take place at the University of Maine, Wells Conference Center, (131 Munson Rd, Orono, ME 04469), Friday, October 4 (5 – 7 p.m.), and Saturday, October 5, (9 a.m. – 5 p.m.)

Please contact Alf Anderson at aanderson@aarp.org or Jane Margesson at jmargesson@aarp.org. Early bird registration open. Follow the link to view the full agenda and register: www.rouxevents.northeastern.edu/startsummitdigitalequityaging Note: This is not an AARP website. Any information you provide to the host organization will be governed by its privacy policy.