I am not sure whether this counts or not, but last year I started a TEDx event. My own motivation was that after graduation, it was so difficult to make new geek friends.

- Inviting people to TEDx has been a great excuse to reach total stranger, and to ask them about their work. - Organizing event is to "get things done in the real world", (which I believe to be) the same skill set for a startup. - Working with people really helps me to get to know them. I have since found my future business partner.