Note: Due to the high-risk nature of PACE Development Group’s work, the founders have requested that their names be withheld.
Last year, the world was stunned by the Islamic State’s brutal beheadings of two reporters, James Foley and Steven Sotloff, who were covering the Syrian Civil War. A free press is considered an essential part of democratic governance, giving citizens the information needed to participate in society. But some of the stories that need telling the most—like stories of war, oppression and natural disasters—are also some of the most dangerous to cover. Over the past decade alone, 720 journalists have been killed in connection with their jobs, according to Reporters Without Borders.
Dave, an Arizona State University alumnus, and his partners Austin and John hope to reduce these tragedies. Their start-up company, PACE Development Group (PDG), provides survival and safety training to journalists and others working in high-risk areas. It also provides support and resources for handling crises such as kidnappings.
In fall 2014, the team was selected for ASU’s Edson Student Entrepreneur Initiative program, which helped them to launch their company. The Edson program provides seed funding, office space, training and mentorship to student entrepreneurs.
Read the full story here.
