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High Tech Happy Hour (HTHH) was founded in July of 2001. Madison had a growing high tech community, but lacked a gathering place where those involved could routinely connect with each other for fun and for business. Thus was the inspiration for High Tech Happy Hour. The first HTHH was created by Allen Dines, Craig Parson, and Al Hawkins. At the time, Craig and Al were recent grads from the Business School's Weinert Center, and Allen Dines was just joining the UW-Madison's University Industry Relations. The initial HTHH drew about 30 people. The concept was simple: no agenda, no fees, no program, and no pre-registration - just people connecting with other people to leverage ideas and opportunities. The creators gambled that sponsors would come forward to make these event possible. The formula worked and sponsors (some of the best companies in town) have consistently supported HTHH as a monthly event ever since. In July of 2005 SupraNet Communications, Yahara Software and Applied Tech Solutions created an alliance and took over HTHH to ensure the continuation and culture of it. Over the past year HTHH has grown tremendously through a steady and loyal following of people interested and working in high tech fields. HTHH now has between 200 and 300 attendees at each event and the opt-in mailing list now includes over 2000 people. HTHH is held once a month and is made possible by the businesses that sponsor each month.