Baton Rouge Entrepreneur Wins Ticket to 'Big Omaha'

Posted by: Mark Marich on May 03, 2011 Source: Policy Dialogue on Entrepreneurship

Baton Rouge entrepreneur Wendy Overton is packing her bags for Nebraska after winning a ticket to Big Omaha, the sold-out conference on innovation and entrepreneurship to be held May 11 - 13, 2011.

Overton was one of more than 60 entrepreneurs who entered the Big Omaha "Express Your Pledge" competition, sponsored by the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation. Entrepreneurs were invited to read the Foundation's "Entrepreneur's Pledge," and express what it means to them and ways they could do a better job fulfilling it.

Overton’s entry:

I am an entrepreneur. Baton Rouge is my startup. I'm a catalyst and a connector. I take responsibility for my own destiny and am working to help others to do the same. Last fall I set forth to bring Startup Weekend to Baton Rouge and in doing so I began to realize a path to ignite entrepreneurism in Louisiana's capital, and I am boldly embarking on that path by creating a series of grassroots events, organizations and activities designed to build an innovative culture.

It inspires me to think my work has both changed and will change lives and the economy of this region. I will fulfill the Entrepreneur's Pledge by taking action to bring bold social ideas to reality. My destiny is the same as any true-blooded entrepreneur – to disrupt entropy, be the first to market, change the game, embrace being different than the masses, inspire others … and find fulfillment. The more "disruptive" the activities and events I initiate, the greater the likelihood I, and others who join me, can impact and inspire the capitol region. I will reach out to fellow entrepreneurs, actively engaging them to support inspiring and action-oriented events and activities. I will make connections to strengthen the fabric of our entrepreneurial community and let the magic of purpose-driven human interaction create new momentum. I will build a stronger America by no longer sitting idly by. Rather, I will step forward with boldness. It is often a perilous venture to stand up and stand out, but in surveying the desperate needs of this state, it is a risk well worth taking. As for me taking the risk – taking action is the first reward. I am proud to be a social entrepreneur.

Will you take the pledge?

Category:  Growth & Poverty  Tags:  Nebraska