Editor: Francesca Published on : Sep 13,2017

Startups are arguably one of the most interesting topics in the tech world. It's quite refreshing to read about talented individuals coming up with new and innovative ideas and it gives us something to look forward to. Watching the startup scene means that you get to be one of the first people to try a new website, app, or service before it hits big and gets too crowded (or before the world realizes that there's no need for such a product and it goes under). In any case, it pays to keep an eye on emerging companies; and the truly innovative ones are a great source for inspiration.

Thinking of watching the realm of startups but not quite sure where to start? These five websites are chock full of startup news and will surely fill you up.

1. TechCrunch - Founded by Michael Arrington in 2005, TechCrunch is a leading source for tech news, and is usually one of the first blogs to break news about startups, Internet products, and other developments. If you're into witty and opinionated posts that stimulate discussion and debate, then TechCrunch is a must-read. Aside from delivering news, the blog is also known for holding conferences and other events in the world of tech. Additionally, TechCrunch is home to CrunchBase, an "open database about start-up companies, people and investors, has become the leading statistical resource for technology companies and transactions."

2. VentureBeat - Composed of an experienced team of journalists, VentureBeat also delivers the latest and hottest news and in-depth coverage when it comes to social media, mobile, enterprises, and of course, startups. In terms of reporting style, VentureBeat is more straightforward than opinionated. The site also holds executive-level conferences, including MobileBeat, CloudBeat, GamesBeat, and the VentureBeat Mobile Summit.

3. Mashable - Startups - What I like about Mashable - Startups is that aside from covering the latest innovative companies and products, it also runs series posts sponsored by big companies that are meant to inspire entrepreneurs to follow the footsteps of the great ones. For instance, the "Spark of Genius" Series zooms in on the unique or "X Factor" of startups, while "The Commerce With A Conscience Series spotlights companies that are doing more than selling products to embrace social good and sustainable entrepreneurship." There are more series posts in Mashable, so be sure to dig in.

4. TechCocktail - TechCocktail was founded in 2006, and it started off as a simple community-building event. Over the years though, the "event" evolved into a great tech news blog and media company that celebrates entrepreneurs, technology, and innovation. According to its website, "Tech Cocktail has hosted local mixers, breakfasts, conferences, festivals and other events across the country that have attracted thousands of attendees, helping entrepreneurs by educating as they showcase their latest achievements and the local technology communities they live in." Well, to that, I can only say, cheers.

5. Uncrunched - After a bit of conflict in TechCrunch and AOL (the company that bought TechCrunch 2010), Michael Arrington was booted out of the website that he started, and went on to start a new site called "Uncrunched." His new blog, of course, isn't as big as TechCrunch yet, but it's just as juicy and interesting. Arrington is a startup investor himself, and it's great to read things from his viewpoint.

Image credit: dierken on Flickr

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