I think those events are best for people wanting to step outside of their comfort zones. It is an opportunity to try something different in a low risk environm

I think those events are best for people wanting to step outside of their comfort zones. It is an opportunity to try something different in a low risk environment, which is not a bad thing. If you enter an event like that, it is best not to expect to end up with a viable company. Startup Weekend events typically spend little time validating that anyone actually wants what the participants create. I understand that the Startup Weekend people want to place more emphasis on validation, but for now the events don't (and really can't) provide much insight into the day-to-day work that is required to build an actual company with a market viable product. I know that a few companies have emerged from Startup Weekend and if there are more than I am aware of...please share.