e360 Blog

A Stroll through Startup Village

Mon, 20 May 2013 09:35:00 -0500

A lone startup that had set up shop in a house on a nondescript Kansas City block has some new neighbors. In less than one year—with the recent installation of Google Fiber serving as a potential catalyst—that same block is now home to a dense pocket of startup activity and has been duly dubbed the Kansas City Startup Village.

Community Is the New Currency

Thu, 02 May 2013 09:04:00 -0500

In her book, It Takes a Village: And Other Lessons Children Teach Us, Hillary Clinton famously (or infamously, based upon your politics) advocated for a society that assumes shared responsibility for raising children. I have concluded that there is some value to "the Village," but in an emerging way that may be redefining what we expect from the communities in which we engage.

Female Founder Makes a Notable Splash at TechCrunch Disrupt

Wed, 01 May 2013 09:16:00 -0500

A powerhouse female scientist just launched a company at TechCrunch Disrupt, the big tech conference in New York that showcases hot new startups. I’m told she’s the first female founder to startup at this event, but I haven’t confirmed that.

Interview with an Iconic Entrepreneur

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 08:34:00 -0500

One of the greatest gifts of my job is the opportunity to meet entrepreneurs. A couple weeks ago, I was fortunate enough to talk entrepreneurship with Barnett Helzberg, Jr., former CEO of Helzberg Diamonds. Turns out this iconic entrepreneur, who's sold a company to Warren Buffet, knows a thing or two about entrepreneurship.

New ID8 Nation Channel Features Vibrant Entrepreneurial Communities in US

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 14:55:00 -0500

Cities across the United States are looking for lessons on how to build entrepreneurial communities to help fuel their economies. ID8 Nation, a multimedia channel launching today on the Kauffman Foundation website, entrepreneurship.org, explores cities' entrepreneurial ecosystems to provide insights on what grows in them and why. The first city profiled is Pittsburgh.

A Take on Why It's Time for Startup Africa

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 09:25:00 -0500

Kauffman Foundation Senior Fellow and Policy Dialogue blogger Jonathan Ortmans shares his insight into why Africa's emerging startup scene is living up to the hype.

Just a Cup of Joe?

Tue, 02 Apr 2013 08:40:00 -0500

Some of my entrepreneurially-interested coworkers at the Kauffman Foundation have an interesting article on Huffington Post right now. It dissects the organic growth of 1 Million Cups (1MC) in support of a new finding: that word of mouth networking helps build early-stage startup communities better than social media.

Entrepreneurship Heats up in Rio de Janeiro

Tue, 26 Mar 2013 10:53:00 -0500

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil was the host city to the 2013 Global Entrepreneurship Congress. Over 1,000 people from 144 countries shared a hot and humid week fueled by the overwhelming passion to promote entrepreneurship globally.

Workforce Development Redefined

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 08:17:00 -0500

When I say the phrase “workforce development” chances are a certain image is conjured in your mind. Maybe you think of tradesmen positions, like carpenters, electricians, plumbers and masons. Maybe you think vocational training programs offered by community colleges. Regardless of what your mind has been trained to conclude based on that phrase, workforce development has never been more important than it is today. But it’s not enough—on its own or simply as it is.

The Intoxicating Smell of Entrepreneurship

Tue, 05 Mar 2013 09:46:00 -0600

I recently got to delve into a very appetizing trend emerging in the entrepreneurial space: shared kitchens. While the concept of shared resources isn’t new, taking it into the kitchen for the sake of supporting startups in the food industry is—but the idea is taking off.

The F-Word in Entrepreneurship

Wed, 27 Feb 2013 20:19:00 -0600

I recently sat down with Diana Kander, a successful entrepreneur and Entrepreneur-in-Residence at the Kauffman Foundation. Diana has founded and sold multiple enterprises, raising a lot of angel investment in the meantime. But we weren’t getting together to talk about her successes. Instead, we dove into a taboo topic … failure.

Aiming High

Mon, 18 Feb 2013 14:58:00 -0600

In the entrepreneurship and economic development realms, the word “high-growth” is tossed about loosely, often used to define that rare, illusive, overnight success of a startup. But a recent study by Kauffman has proved that high-growth firms aren’t as hard-pressed to find as we thought … so long as you’re looking in the right places.

Border Wars

Wed, 16 Jan 2013 07:17:00 -0600

The first Top of Mind issue for 2013 has gone online and in it, I talk about three topics with the potential to impact (or continue to impact) entrepreneurship in a big way. I want to elaborate on one that has struck a chord with me. It’s an unproductive method of economic development called “border wars.”

Investing In College—Is It Worth It/$50K A Year?

Wed, 28 Nov 2012 10:00:00 -0600

The once easy choice for many of going from high school to some form of accredited higher education is becoming less of a forgone conclusion simply because of the economics and by the entrance of for-profit schools of varying types; including alternative options to college altogether like the UnCollege movement and the Thiel Fellowship program. The entrance of these new players (entrepreneurs) will impact some traditional sources of higher education and certainly challenge our obedient consumer consensus that a ‘traditional’ education will best serve my progeny.

Over the Top

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 14:28:00 -0600

My airplane insomnia meant I was awake for a breathtaking view of the North Pole while on a return trip from Dubai. I had attended the World Economic Forum's Global Agenda Council on Fostering Entrepreneurship, which hosts working groups as they that postulate and catalyze priorities for the annual Davos Conference in January.

GEW Videos of the Day Canada and Malaysia

Fri, 16 Nov 2012 08:00:00 -0600

The videos for today feature Canada and Malaysia.

GEW Videos of the Day South Africa, Brazil, France, Germany

Thu, 15 Nov 2012 09:10:00 -0600

The videos for today feature ads from South Africa and Brazil and then a look back on GEW France and Germany.

Rants from the Road

Wed, 14 Nov 2012 14:34:00 -0600

I had my reservations about starting the Top of Mind video channel—mainly because there are a lot of good sources for observations and opinions on the increasingly popular topic of entrepreneurship. But we have proceeded with this effort because one of the rare privileges I have, by virtue of my position and the work we do at the foundation, is being granted access to events and thinking that are not common to many.

GEW Videos of the Day Venezuela and UK

Tue, 13 Nov 2012 16:46:00 -0600

The videos for today feature Venezuela and the UK.

Global Entrepreneurship Week 2012 Instagram Feed

Tue, 13 Nov 2012 16:46:00 -0600

See some of the great images from around the world in this feed of Instagram photos from the 2012 Global Entrepreneurship Week.

Top of My Entrepreneurial Mind

Mon, 29 Oct 2012 20:03:00 -0500

Today, the Kauffman Foundation launched a weekly (for all intents and purposes) video channel called “Top of Mind.” It’s nothing fancy; no post-production special effects, no camera wizardry. It’s just me, my iPad, and my thoughts on a host of topics that are impacting the world of entrepreneurship.

The Foundation of Any Startup Community

Fri, 19 Oct 2012 12:08:00 -0500

Founder-turned-venture capitalist Brad Feld has some spot-on ideas about what it takes to build a community rich in startup activity. He outlines those four major characteristics in his new book, Startup Communities; they’re also the subject of a recent Kauffman Foundation animated sketchbook video.

Startup Jobs Dropping

Mon, 08 Oct 2012 11:21:00 -0500

A recently released briefing paper by the Hudson Institute shows job creation from new firms at an all-time low. “The Collapse of Startups in Job Creation” paints a bleak picture where the number of new firms being created today is even smaller than two years ago when the worst of the recession ended.

Entrepreneurs: 5 Reasons Why You Should Enter the Startup Open Competition

Mon, 10 Sep 2012 11:36:00 -0500

Startups around the world are vying for a chance to win Global Entrepreneurship Week’s Startup Open Competition. There are only five days left to submit an application and here are my top five reasons—in no particular order—why every entrepreneur who’s eligible should apply.

For Better or Worse: Advice for the Entrepreneurial Spouse

Mon, 20 Aug 2012 15:57:00 -0500

I recently read an article on Forbes.com about the ups and downs of being an entrepreneur’s spouse or significant other. It brought me back to my own entrepreneurial endeavors and reminded me of a few coping mechanisms my wife of now 23 years and I picked up along the way.

It's Hip to Upcycle

Thu, 09 Aug 2012 13:00:00 -0500

One of the genuinely rewarding parts of my job is working with entrepreneurs in a variety of industries. Meet Andrew Sell, the founder of a startup that can make an environmental difference while earning a profit.

eMed Blog: Tips for Entrepreneurs Working with Universities

Wed, 01 Aug 2012 08:20:00 -0500

Like many entrepreneurs, those in the life science space are partnering with universities to bring new products to market. Read some of Dan Emerson's tips for entrepreneurs on working with universities.

Three Things Google Didn't Address in Their Announcement Last Week

Tue, 31 Jul 2012 09:17:00 -0500

Last week's announcement detailing the rollout of Google's fiber optic network had the feel of a Silicon Valley big-time new product launch. It was definitely a big deal for Kansas City on both sides of the state line. Most importantly, information flowed copiously from Google about the details of their project—a welcome relief from the hitherto tight-lipped tech giant. The Google Fiber announcement lived up to the initial promise to deliver gigabit Internet speeds over a fiber optic network to homes at competitive prices.

Dispelling the Myth of the Zuckerberg Entrepreneur

Thu, 12 Jul 2012 19:45:00 -0500

When you hear the word entrepreneur, what kind of image does your mind conjure up? If it’s a Mark Zuckerberg look-a-like pouring out HTML code in an Ivy League dorm room, you’re probably not alone. But you’re not exactly picturing the masses.

How Many Cups to Launch?

Wed, 27 Jun 2012 07:50:00 -0500

When I was a wee lad in the ancient times of the 1970s, I remember an old commercial for Tootsie Roll Tootsie Pops that asked how many licks it takes to get to the center of their delicious lollipops. At the Foundation we are posing a similar question with a modern, caffeinated, twist and applying it to a slightly more constructive purpose.

Look Who's Supporting Startup Act 2.0

Tue, 26 Jun 2012 07:46:00 -0500

With his ever-watchful eye on the latest policy news affecting entrepreneurship, Mark Marich has rounded up the most recent Startup Act 2.0 endorsements. Among those supporters is tech giant Google.

The Ice House Entrepreneurship Program One Year Update

Mon, 25 Jun 2012 17:25:00 -0500

It's hard to believe that a year has passed since the release of the Ice House Entrepreneurship program. In twelve short months, the program has garnered the attention of educators, economic development and civic organizations from across the US and beyond.

Policy Forum Blog on Reforming Higher Education

Thu, 14 Jun 2012 14:25:00 -0500

On the heels of the Kauffman Foundation's $1 million grant to Lorain County Community College to take its successful model for funding startups national, the Foundation released papers from last year's Entrepreneurship in Higher Education Retreat.

A Model for Community College Entrepreneurship Takes the National Stage

Fri, 01 Jun 2012 12:16:00 -0500

Yesterday, the Kauffman Foundation announced a $1 million grant to Lorain County Community College to replicate its Innovation Fund model, which connects entrepreneurs to mentorship, education and capital, on a national scale.

IPOs Going Going Gone?

Tue, 22 May 2012 09:02:00 -0500

As analysts debate over Facebook’s “failure” of an Initial Public Offering, one thing has been made clear through some recently released Kauffman Foundation research: America’s slump in IPOs does not bode well for our nation’s job creation or economic growth.

Great Way to Spend a Weekend

Thu, 03 May 2012 09:38:00 -0500

Startup Weekends are incredible. Hear from those who were at Startup Weekend Kansas City, including yours truly, as we talk about the power in this event and how it’s catalyzing entrepreneurship everywhere.

Are the Startup Jobs in Your State?

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 07:46:00 -0500

In this week’s Huffington Post, the “Top 13 States for Startup Hiring” were named, according to StartupHire. My home state of Ohio was on the list....did your state make the cut?

Policy Forum Blog on Angels' Confidence

Thu, 12 Apr 2012 10:17:00 -0500

Earlier this week, Mark Marich summarized angel investors’ confidence as reported by the 2011 Angel Market Analysis. Just how confident are they?

What the JOBS Act Means for Startup Capital

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 08:49:00 -0500

In Jonathan Ortmans' most recent post on the Policy Forum Blog, he breaks down what the JOBS Act means for entrepreneurial companies and their ability to raise capital.

What Goes Global Grows Global

Fri, 30 Mar 2012 09:27:00 -0500

Global Entrepreneurship Week is an annual weeklong, worldwide series of events that educates literally millions of people about entrepreneurship and innovation. The Kauffman Foundation rounded up some GEW-related stats to see just how global this week truly is.

The Ebb and Flow of Entrepreneurship

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 09:22:00 -0500

The Kauffman Foundation has released its “Kauffman Index of Entrepreneurial Activity” for 2011. The numbers reveal a decline in the rate of new business creation in 2011 as compared to 2010, but don't be too quick to judge.

How a City Created Its Entrepreneurial Advantage

Tue, 06 Mar 2012 09:35:00 -0600

Last week Jonathan Ortmans traveled to our neighbor to the North and toured one of Canada’s best cities for startups. In his latest blog he talks about what makes Waterloo so entrepreneurial and how it got there.

Life Science Entrepreneurs: Apply for the Newest Kauffman Summit

Wed, 29 Feb 2012 13:02:00 -0600

For life science startups, the road to commercialization is typically much longer than that of other young companies that aren’t regulated by the FDA. So the Kauffman Foundation is doing something to help entrepreneurs address their challenges and get their innovations to market.

eMed Blog on Top Tips for Pitching Investors

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 13:01:00 -0600

Looking for some tips for making a good pitch to investors? Stephanie Baum summarizes the consistent investor advice heard at a pitch session in Philadelphia in her latest eMed blog.

A Bridge Over the Valley of Death

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 11:39:00 -0600

A new Kauffman Foundation report points to what might be a long-term bridge over the most difficult funding stage for startups—the 'Valley of Death.' In that timeframe, after entrepreneurs have exhausted friends, family, and personal credit and before they're ready for external funding, some startups struggle to raise enough capital to stay alive.

Super Sunday Can Inspire Super Startups

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 07:57:00 -0600

As millions of Americans tune in to watch Super Bowl 46 and the most-anticipated commercials of the year, I hope a certain 30-second spot catches some eyes.

Kauffman Scholar Debuts Blog on Wired.com

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 07:42:00 -0600

Social Dimension, a new blog on Wired.com written by Kauffman Foundation Senior Scholar Samuel Arbesman, explores the mathematics behind understanding society and civilization.

Making a List

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 19:53:00 -0600

As the year winds down, thoughts naturally reflect on the year's accomplishments, challenges, regrets and hopes that we carry into the new year. As an entrepreneur, I have found it an excellent time to take stock and make an inventory of the resources and assets that I have come to rely upon and expect to continue to value in the future. With that in mind, I wanted to share my year-end inventory of programs, resources, and organizations that are serving the interests of entrepreneurs.

Introducing the Bipartisan Startup Act

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 09:00:00 -0600

U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-Kansas) and Mark Warner (D-Virginia) introduced bipartisan legislation yesterday to jumpstart the economy by creating and growing new companies—and they backed it up with Kauffman data.

New in the Sketchbook Series: Money Game

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 12:27:00 -0600

Thinking about starting a business? Think you need a lot of money or that you need to know venture capitalists to fund your dream? Think again.

A World United by Entrepreneurship

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 21:44:00 -0600

For one week the world unites, across borders and languages, to celebrate entrepreneurs and innovators...to celebrate the world’s job creators.

Latest Policy Blog: Bills Passed House Offering More Money

Wed, 09 Nov 2011 07:24:00 -0600

On Monday, Mark Marich wrote a blog about two pieces of legislation that passed through the House. Both would affect the nation's entrepreneurs and one addresses the new crowdfunding trend.

A Captivating Slideshow for Entrepreneurs

Sun, 09 Oct 2011 13:44:00 -0500

This captivating and motivating slideshow captures the every individual's "Dear Future Entrepreneur" message.

Global Scholars to Include U.S. Applicants

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 13:00:00 -0500

The Kauffman Foundation is expanding its successful Global Scholars Program to include up to ten recent graduates from U.S. colleges and universities who will join other scholars from around the world. Applications can be submitted at www.kauffman.org, and must be completed by Oct. 17, 2011.

Women Entrepreneurs: Our Nation's Untapped Economic Potential

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 14:20:00 -0500

Last week, the Kauffman Foundation released "Overcoming the Gender Gap: Women Entrepreneurs as Economic Drivers." This white paper looks at the potential of women entrepreneurs to grow our economy.

The Importance of Intangibles

Mon, 26 Sep 2011 12:34:00 -0500

Last spring, Athena Alliance, along with support from the Kauffman Foundation OECD, The Conference Board, and US National Academies, put together an inspiring conference on the role of intangible assets— information, workforce skills and know-how, effective management and marketing, business models, relations with suppliers and customers, software and databases, and intellectual property— in job creation and economic growth.

Entrepreneurship Policy Experts: Weigh In

Tue, 20 Sep 2011 15:33:00 -0500

The Kauffman Foundation is in search of experts on high growth entrepreneurship policy to help create a global policy roadmap for advancing entrepreneurship. Weigh in with your thoughts on policies that facilitate entrepreneurship, ways to remove regulatory barriers for entrepreneurs, or any topic pertaining to global policy and entrepreneurship.

Three Things Entrepreneurs Do

Wed, 14 Sep 2011 07:48:00 -0500

This summer the Kauffman Foundation released The Startup Act. The comprehensive proposal for new legislation is aimed at jump-starting our nation’s economy through more successful startups. The data supporting the purpose and contents of The Startup Act are compelling. But sometimes, a little visual helps too.

Ice House Entrepreneurs: Battling Hardship with Entrepreneurship

Fri, 26 Aug 2011 10:06:00 -0500

While policymakers scramble to make sense of the market volatility and rationalize our credit downgrade, many Americans have been left to fend for themselves. The Ice House Entrepreneurship Program, a two-part learning project is designed to remind us of the fundamental concepts of an entrepreneurial mindset and the opportunities it can provide.

Why Detroit Could be the Next Big Startup City

Tue, 23 Aug 2011 13:49:00 -0500

Learn why Detroit is poised for entrepreneurial renaissance.

What's Your Excuse?

Wed, 17 Aug 2011 14:41:00 -0500

We recently hosted the inaugural class for the Ice House Entrepreneurship Education Program. The program coincidentally started just as the debt ceiling debacle was playing out in Washington. There was a shared moment of awareness that maybe those we feel should be making the economic ecosystem a better place for entrepreneurs were in fact incapable of doing so, and even doing things that were self-destructive; a reality driven home by the subsequent credit downgrade by S&P.

iStart Launches New Profiles Features

Mon, 15 Aug 2011 20:23:00 -0500

iStart, the leading online community for business competitions, has added some valuable functionality that makes it even easier for aspiring entrepreneurs to tell the story of their great idea.

The Best Healthcare Innovations for the Future... Do You Know One that Should Make the List?

Tue, 12 Jul 2011 20:04:00 -0500

A recent eMed blog highlighted a few noteworthy nominees for the Cleveland Clinic's best healthcare innovations of 2012. What new healthcare technology would you like to see make next year's list?

What Would You Do with a Gig?

Wed, 22 Jun 2011 06:54:00 -0500

Kansas City will soon receive internet connectivity that will be one hundred times faster than anywhere else in the world. What should they do with it?

Policy Forum Blog: What a Difference a Statistic Can Make

Tue, 07 Jun 2011 19:21:00 -0500

The latest Policy Forum blog post: Jonathan Ortmans shows the impact one data point has "awakened Democrats and Republicans alike and provided a new strategy for all Americans seeking to create jobs and restore what many Americans perceive as lost U.S. economic competitiveness."

An eMed Blog: Landing Seed Money - Five Tips

Thu, 26 May 2011 19:47:00 -0500

Check out this blog on Entrepreneurship.org's newest resource: eMed Blog. Brian O'Connell offers five tips to healthcare entrepreneurs looking for venture capital.

Think you have a great idea for a new co? Then go find talent to join you.

Mon, 23 May 2011 16:06:00 -0500

There is a myth out there about the sole entrepreneur who has the idea, starts the company and gets rich. While there might be cases where this does happen – more frequently there is a team...

Black Innovators and Entrepreneurship

Thu, 19 May 2011 08:03:00 -0500

Startup America Partnership CEO Scott Case was asked about women entrepreneurs’ lack of access to venture capital. Case said one challenge facing both women and minority entrepreneurs is “they’re not visible to us.” As a result, Faye Anderson launches "The Innovators" website.

Necessity is the Mother of Invention and Father of Entrepreneurship

Tue, 10 May 2011 08:02:00 -0500

I recently attended the 39th Annual Induction Ceremony for the National Inventors Hall of Fame. As it has been in years past, it was awe-inspiring and of significant historical interest.

Startup America Focuses on Midwest Manufacturing

Thu, 03 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0600

The White House’s Startup America initiative shines a welcome light on the innovative, next-generation Midwest manufactures that are redefining manufacturing.

An Entrepreneurial Win for the Future

Thu, 24 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0600

President Obama and his cabinet secretaries visited Northeast Ohio to talk about issues, opportunities, and new ideas around entrepreneurship.

Entrepreneurial mindset can exist in many ways and places

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0600

The term entrepreneur has what I like to refer to as positive brand confusion. Whereas the opinions range in scale from the billion dollar company to the life style enterprise, most people nevertheless have a positive connotation of what an entrepreneur is. This post shows that an entrepreneurial mindset can exist almost anywhere people are paying attention to problems while working towards solutions.

EMKF and Huffington Post

Tue, 18 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0600

The Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation launched a partnership with The Huffington Post's "Small Business America" entrepreneurship blog today by posting the first of what will be regular columns written by the Foundation's economic and entrepreneurship experts.

National Entrepreneur Day Message from the Commerce Department

Fri, 19 Nov 2010 16:07:00 -0600

Throughout our history, the unparalleled freedoms that we enjoy as Americans have fueled an entrepreneurial culture that has made us the global leader in introducing new technologies and new ideas into the marketplace.

With President Obama’s proclamation setting November 14 through November 20, 2010, as National Entrepreneurship Week, today we celebrate National Entrepreneurs' Day to honor our nation’s entrepreneurs and their role as catalysts for creating new industries, businesses and jobs.

From the Icehouse to Your House

Mon, 08 Nov 2010 19:30:00 -0600

Next week will witness the launch of a new and engaging learning initiative known as the Icehouse Entrepreneurship Program. Recognizing our nation’s need for greater economic participation at all levels of society, the Icehouse Entrepreneurship Program captures and conveys the “mindset” of entrepreneurs who overcame adversity and are now helping lead our economic recovery.

Our energy future requires commercialization education and mentors

Wed, 20 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Yesterday the Kauffman Foundation co-hosted the Southwest Energy Summit with both ASU (host location) and the leadership team of ARPA E. We had wonderful participation from industry leaders, experienced energy VC's and university academics...

Summer of 2010 Recap

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Summer of 2010 recap: launching of this new website and another for our FastTrac program, the commissioning of Who Owns the Icehouse book and online learning program, an incredible visit to Dhaka Bangladesh...

Entrepreneurship News Roundup: Week of 8/27/10

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

This week we opened up the dialogue by asking the community to weigh in on the question, Can entrepreneurship be taught? We received great responses from community members on this question. Overall members agreed that...

Can Entrepreneurship Be Taught?

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

We posted this weekend about an NPR article, Maybe Entrepreneurship Can be Taught? The article highlighted the results of a new Gallup poll which uncovered that 57% of Chinese and 51% of Americans said...

Entrepreneurship News Roundup: Week of 8/20/10

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

During this week we covered how entrepreneurs in Youngstown, Ohio are bringing success and economic growth to their region by utilizing their local business incubator as well as...

Kauffman Labs Education Ventures Teleconference

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Thinking about applying for the Kauffman Labs Education Ventures Program? Don’t miss your chance to listen in on the final informational teleconference to learn more about the program and ask questions.

Entrepreneurship News Roundup: Week of 8.13.10

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

This week we celebrated the launch of the new Entrepreneurship.org by highlighting all the new features the website has to offer including the new Resource Center, e360TV and Sandbox. We also introduced a new e360 blogger to the website, Lesa Mitchell, Vice President with the Kauffman Foundation. Lesa’s post, Turning Makers into Entrepreneurs, focused on the Maker Faire and Jules Pieri’s company focus on transforming makers into future entrepreneurs. As well as...

Who Owns The Icehouse?

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

“Long before the word ‘entrepreneur’ became popular, the concept still existed.”

These are among the first words Mr. Clifton Taulbert uttered during our chance interview in April, 2008. During our interview, Mr. Taulbert described the entrepreneurial influence and life-lessons he learned from his Uncle Cleve (an unlikely entrepreneur who defied the odds as the owner of the icehouse in Glen Allan, Mississippi during the height of legal segregation.) Today, through a partnership with the Kauffman Foundation, that chance interview is being transformed into a two-part learning initiative designed to inspire and engage America’s youth in the unlimited opportunities that an entrepreneurial mindset can provide.

Turning Makers Into Entrepreneurs

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The 31st of July the Henry Ford Museum supported by sponsors like the Kauffman Foundation, Ford Motors Co and New Economy Initiative launched the first of what we hope is an annual Maker Faire event in Detroit. Twenty-five thousand people showed up to check out the makers who came out of their garages to share their wares at the Henry Ford Museum grounds. So why is this so special?

Welcome to the New Entrepreneurship.org

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

We are very excited to roll out the new and improved Entrepreneurship.org this week. Not only does the new website have a new look, it also has many innovative features to help you during every stage of the entrepreneurial process.

Part Two: Tacit Knowledge

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 11:22:00 -0500

This is the second in a two part series in which Gary Schoeniger discusses entrepreneurship education. Below is Part Two: Tacit Knowledge In his book, Sources of Power: How People Make Decisions, author Gary Klein examines human strengths and capabilities that have traditionally been downplayed or...

Entrepreneurship News Roundup: Week of 7/16/2010

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 14:21:00 -0500

This week we reviewed entrepreneurship education as an oxymoron, part one of a two part blog series by Gary Schoeniger. We also looked at nine ways small businesses can maximize their marketing budget, as well as what is the most important qualities for a leader...

Part One: Is entrepreneurship education an oxymoron?

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 14:55:00 -0500

This is the first in a two part series in which Gary Schoeniger discusses entrepreneurship education. Below is Part One: Is entrepreneurship education an oxymoron? Are entrepreneurs born with a unique ability? What is it that enables them to recognize opportunities that the rest of us overlook?

Entrepreneurship News Roundup: Week of 7/9/2010

Fri, 09 Jul 2010 15:01:00 -0500

This week we looked at how job growth in the United States is driven entirely by startups according to The Importance of Startups in Job Creation and Job Destruction; a study conducted by Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation. We also heard from entrepreneur, Cameron Herold at...

Entrepreneurship Weekly News Roundup- 7-2-10

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 13:02:00 -0500

This weekend marks the patriotic holiday in America, Independence Day. In honor of this holiday this week’s roundup will be focused around the entrepreneurial spirit that helped shape our great nation. George Washington, best known for leading the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War also embarked...

Featured Innovators Roundup

Wed, 30 Jun 2010 13:03:00 -0500

Like many entrepreneurs, John Earle, owner of Johnny Cupcakes, built his successful business with the help of his family. How did this work for him? Just ask his Mom, Lorraine Earle, the CFO of Johnny Cupcakes. Balancing a full time job and starting up a...

Entrepreneurship News Roundup: Week of 6/25/2010

Fri, 25 Jun 2010 12:04:00 -0500

This week Gary Schoeniger’s, Founder and CEO of the Entrepreneurial Learning Initiative, (ELI), reviewed how entrepreneurs are more like insurgents rather than predators. We also looked at, how entrepreneurs like The Denver Cupcake Truck and Solotrekkers are using social media to build awareness of their...

The Ernst & Young’s Entrepreneur Of The Year® Award

Wed, 23 Jun 2010 10:01:00 -0500

Looking forward to attending the Ernst & Young’s Entrepreneur of The Year Northeast Ohio Awards Gala tonight. I’m honored to be a part of this honorable tradition. The Ernst & Young’s Entrepreneur Of The Year® is the world’s most prestigious business award for entrepreneurs. The award...

Pepsi Tech?

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 17:09:00 -0500

Today I posted an update to the home page of entrepreneurship.org about an idea exchange on media, communications and technology. Specifically, the Pepsi Company, yes the soda making giant, is “championing outside innovation and welcoming it into the organization to push our marketing and communications...

Entrepreneurs as insurgents?

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 09:19:00 -0500

Still a bit wrankled by Malcolm Gladwell’s recent article, “The Sure Thing,” in which he (mis)characterized entrepreneurs as “predators.” I began to search for a more accurate metaphor; one that might be negatively construed, yet more accurately describes the behavior and attitudes of successful entrepreneurs....

Entrepreneurship News Roundup: Week of 6/18/2010

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 12:04:00 -0500

This week we looked at how entrepreneurs are finding financial relief through individual development accounts (IDAs). These accounts help small business owners boost their savings to purchase equipment or advertising for their companies. In addition to this we reviewed, 7 tips for generating buzz for...

Entrepreneurship News Roundup: Week of 6/11/2010

Thu, 10 Jun 2010 16:05:00 -0500

This week we looked at a group of entrepreneur students at Babson College who transformed walls to whiteboards with their innovative entrepreneurial approach to the company IdeaPaint. Also, Kauffman Foundation Vice President of Advancing Innovation Lesa Mitchell testified to the House Committee on Science and Technology...

New “Infectious Talk” Podcast Series

Wed, 09 Jun 2010 13:13:00 -0500

“Infectious Talk,” is a new podcast series presented by the Kauffman Foundation. Hosted by renowned blogger and financial commentator Paul Kedrosky, this series focuses on current issues as well as feature leading industry thinkers to discuss topics regarding: • Entrepreneurship • Economic Growth • Innovation Check out the...

Entrepreneurship News Roundup: Week of 6/4/2010

Fri, 04 Jun 2010 10:46:00 -0500

This week we looked at how women entrepreneurial businesses are growing twice as quickly as the national average for all startups. One women entrepreneur that has helped in this growth over the past two years is entrepreneur Kate Friedman, owner of Atelier Shoes. We also...

Reaching into the past to create the future.

Thu, 03 Jun 2010 13:26:00 -0500

Last week I had the pleasure of attending Tech Town’s 2010 FastTrac to the Future conference in Detroit, Michigan. More than 700 experienced and aspiring entrepreneurs gathered on the campus of Wayne State University to participate in what will become the future of Detroit’s economy. ...

Entrepreneurship Dissertation Fellowship Grant

Wed, 02 Jun 2010 08:47:00 -0500

Just announced, the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation’s 2010-2011 Kauffman Dissertation Fellowship Program's Online Request for Proposal is now available through Sept. 15, 2010. The Kauffman Foundation will award up to fifteen Dissertation Fellowship grants of $20,000 each to Ph.D., D.B.A. or other doctoral students for...

Entrepreneurship News Roundup: Week of 5/28/2010

Fri, 28 May 2010 09:14:00 -0500

Uncovered in the Kauffman’s Index of Entrepreneurial Activity report we saw that entrepreneurial growth was the highest among 35- to 44-year olds in 2009. Many of these small businesses were launched due to the loss of income opportunities. Also this week the introduction of, “Who...

Kauffman Index of Entrepreneurial Activity: 1996 – 2009 Report

Thu, 27 May 2010 08:06:00 -0500

According to the Kauffman Index of Entrepreneurial Activity: 1996 – 2009 report, U.S. small business startups launched in 2009 reached record highs when compared to startups created during the 2007 – 2009 recession. Additionally, the report uncovered that entrepreneurial growth was the highest among 35-...

Remember to Remember

Tue, 25 May 2010 08:40:00 -0500

Having worn the uniform and taken the oath to defend our country from all threats foreign and domestic, I particularly enjoy Memorial Day as I reflect on those who paid the ultimate price in defense of our ideals. And let’s be clear, pursuing and protecting...

Entrepreneurship News Roundup: Week of 5/21/2010

Fri, 21 May 2010 13:29:00 -0500

This week was all about saving as we took a look at 10 innovative steps to crowdsourcing business tasks and how to create a killer investor presentation with just 10 slides. In addition to these tips we also uncovered that 6.6 million Homepreneurs provide at...

Entrepreneurship News Roundup: Week of 5/14/2010

Fri, 14 May 2010 12:54:00 -0500

This week we learned about four innovative marketing solutions for small businesses as well as 12 innovative steps entrepreneurs can utilize their leadership presence to inspire others. We also reviewed how a group of entrepreneurial law students jumped right into starting their own business despite...

Entrepreneurship News Roundup: Week of 5/7/2010

Fri, 07 May 2010 11:53:00 -0500

This week we learned how Dave Waldman, CEO and Entrepreneurial Founder of Bccthis took a chance and ventured out with his business partner to create their own startup. We also took a look at the top ten ingredients needed to create a great business plan...

Business Planning: A Permission Based Approach.

Mon, 03 May 2010 12:09:00 -0500

Lately it seems as if the term “business plan” has become synonymous with the entrepreneurship education initiatives that have sprung up on nearly every college campus and small business development center in the country. Business plan competitions, business plan writing clinics, business planning software, business...

Entrepreneurship News Roundup: Week of 4/30/2010

Fri, 30 Apr 2010 13:01:00 -0500

The 2010 Presidential Summit on Entrepreneurship wrapped up with many exciting takeaways such as the growth of youth entrepreneurship, the development of the US relationship with global entrepreneurs and empowering women entrepreneurs to continue to launch outstanding startups. Other innovative ideas this week included how...

Entrepreneurship News Roundup: Week of 4/23/2010

Fri, 23 Apr 2010 16:03:00 -0500

Thinking of starting a business? Make sure to ask yourself these four important entrepreneur questions that will take your company from startup to innovation. One important element for any new business venture is coming up with a name. But does having an original name really matter?...

His Name is Earl

Thu, 22 Apr 2010 17:54:00 -0500

As readers of e360 may know, I travel a bit – about 100,000 miles a year to be specific. In traveling this much, I have learned the survival skill of going on what I call “autopilot” mode. I can do the flight check-in, security screening,...

Entrepreneurship News Roundup: Week of 4/16/2010

Fri, 16 Apr 2010 14:46:00 -0500

In SoHo this week, first-time entrepreneurs figured out how to pitch investors their startup ideas, all within 15 seconds. The global competition regarding innovation and the future of business is about to change. Emerging countries are starting to lead global innovation that will turn the...

Are Entrepreneurs Really Predators?

Thu, 15 Apr 2010 13:39:00 -0500

As entrepreneurship has emerged as a global phenomenon, it is apparent that many popular entrepreneur myths remain. Among them, none is perhaps more common (and potentially devastating) than that of the entrepreneur as a bold risk taker, the flamboyant gambler who bets it all and...

Entrepreneurship News Roundup: Week of 4/9/2010

Fri, 09 Apr 2010 10:16:00 -0500

Babson College in Massachusetts is taking an innovative approach in bringing the entrepreneurial spirit into the classroom. You don’t always need to be born rich to make your life a success story. Take a look at 20 billionaires who made it big through hard work,...

Inspiration Leads to Innovation

Wed, 07 Apr 2010 15:44:00 -0500

Last week I once again had the honor to attend the National Inventor’s Hall of Fame Induction ceremony and celebration gala that took place at the beautiful campus of the United States Patent and Trademark Office. It is hard to convey the incredible impact many...

Entrepreneurship News Roundup: Week of 4/2/2010

Fri, 02 Apr 2010 08:50:00 -0500

JumpStart Inc. is a non-profit organization that would attract startup money for regional entrepreneurs. Since JumpStart Inc.'s creation, it has funded more than 47 successful startups. The Minnesota legislature recently approved the creation of a statewide angel investment tax credit program, giving non-profits like BioBusiness Alliance...

Entrepreneurship News Roundup: Week of 3/22/2010

Fri, 26 Mar 2010 14:45:00 -0500

For Small Businesses, social media has made great strides and has become one of the most critical of online trends. Small Businesses have leveraged media trends, specifically Twitter to obtain customer feedback and in turn become a direct conduit to their customers with news and...

Time to Get to Work

Thu, 25 Mar 2010 23:55:00 -0500

Depending upon your politics, the recent passing of the historic healthcare reform bill has you high-fiving friends and co-workers or preparing for Armageddon, as it will most certainly usher in a period pestilence, poverty, and perniciousness. So whether you’re popping corks on some bubbly or stocking...

The Errors of Enthusiasm

Wed, 24 Mar 2010 12:41:00 -0500

As entrepreneurs, we all think our ideas can change the world. Passion, persistence and a well-written business plan - complete with five-year cash flow projections – are all we need to raise the money we need to launch our business. Yet, doing a startup is...

Entrepreneurship News Roundup: Week of 3/15/10

Fri, 19 Mar 2010 11:48:00 -0500

Business Insider takes a look at 20 startups that are about to take off in a big way. Humera Fasihuddin, the director of the Invention to Venture program at the National Collegiate Inventors & Innovators Alliance answers five essential questions that all entrepreneurs need to consider. Entrepreneur...

Part Four: John Osher's Startup Mistakes in the Overall Vision

Wed, 17 Mar 2010 08:27:00 -0500

This is the final part in the series. Gary Schoeniger discusses his interview with one of America’s most successful entrepreneurs John Osher and the mistakes that startups make. Below is Part Four: Mistakes with the Overall Startup Vision. Part One discussed Startup Mistakes in Research...

Entrepreneurship News Roundup: Week of 3/1/10

Mon, 15 Mar 2010 13:45:00 -0500

It can be tough to determine a concrete amount of money to raise for a startup. Mark Suster debates this issue facing many young startups. Women entrepreneurs are making their mark in business ventures. Get insight on what works for some women entrepreneurs in their startup...

Part Three: John Osher's Startup Mistakes in Management

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 14:26:00 -0600

This is the third part in a four part series. Gary Schoeniger discusses his interview with one of America’s most successful entrepreneurs John Osher and the mistakes that startups make. Below is Part Three: Mistakes in Management. Part One discussed the mistakes in Market Research...

Entrepreneurial Approach Pays Off For Hurt Locker

Tue, 09 Mar 2010 20:22:00 -0600

By the ‘conventional wisdom’ that has prevailed in Hollywood over the last decade, The Hurt Locker should have been (quietly) happy to merely have been nominated for several Oscars and serve as grist for the mill that would have recognized the mega-production that is Avatar....

Part Two: John Osher's Startup Mistakes with Financial Planning

Wed, 03 Mar 2010 12:02:00 -0600

This is the second part in a four part series.Gary Schoeniger discusses his interview with one of America's most successful entrepreneurs John Osher and the mistakes that startups make. Below is Part Two: Mistakes in Financial Planning. Part One discussed the mistakes in Market Research...

Fool me once, shame on you … Fool me twice, I’m an idiot!

Tue, 02 Mar 2010 14:06:00 -0600

In my past companies while interviewing prospective new employees, when I get to the topic of our corporate culture, I was fond of saying that we encourage an entrepreneurial environment that respects the intellectual contribution of others, encourages rigorous debate, and is open to intelligent...

Entrepreneurship News Roundup: Week of 2-22-10

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 13:37:00 -0600

Wade Roush discusses the idea behind AccelGolf, a mobile app developed by mCaddie which is one of nine startups that graduated from the TechStars Startup Boot Camp. To try and strengthen the links between local and national enterprises, and expand the program, The National Business Awards...

Part One: John Osher's Startup Mistakes in Research and Strategy

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 12:02:00 -0600

This is the first in a four part series. Gary Schoeniger discusses his interview with one of America’s most successful entrepreneurs John Osher and the 17 mistakes that startups make. For our purposes we will be breaking the mistakes out into different posts each week....

Leveraging Broadband to Power Growth

Sat, 20 Feb 2010 16:09:00 -0600

Last week the FCC unveiled recommendations for using broadband to advance key national priorities. The plan, which can be read here, identifies the top priorities as: • Creating jobs and economic opportunity • Improving healthcare and controlling costs • Providing more educational opportunities and improving outcomes • Promoting energy independence and efficiency • Enhancing...

Entrepreneurship News Roundup: Week of 2/15/2010

Fri, 19 Feb 2010 14:59:00 -0600

According to a survey done by the UK Business Barometer and UK Business Advisers Barometer Small Businesses are frustrated with the portrayal of TV entrepreneurs. Most feel that they don’t properly illustrate the real-life challenges that face entrepreneurs. Job Searches can be stressful because it’s hard...

The Courage to Think Big

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 14:00:00 -0600

In a recent interview, 28 year-old Denuo Source founder Rahul Chowdhury described how business school gave him the courage to think big;“At the end of the day no matter what you do - you start a small little shop on the corner of Michigan Avenue selling...

New Voices and New Ideas

Tue, 16 Feb 2010 08:53:00 -0600

This week I am happy to introduce a new voice that will be contributing posts for e360; Gary Schoeniger, founder of the Entrepreneurial Learning Initiative. Gary has been a long-time advocate for entrepreneurs and educator of the youth in his community, that demonstrate an interest...

Entrepreneurship News Roundup: Week of 2/8/2010

Fri, 12 Feb 2010 14:34:00 -0600

Amy Wilkinson discusses President Obama’s plans for small business that includes increased funding as well as tax incentives for small business. This could be the jump start that entrepreneurs are looking for. Biz World takes a look at the rise of young generation entrepreneurs. The...

New Decade New Hope

Sun, 07 Feb 2010 22:35:00 -0600

Now that I have stopped writing 2009 on checks and other documents, I feel ready to reflect on the New Year, and new decade. Mercifully, the passing of last year capped a decade marked by the 9/11 terrorist attacks, intelligence failings that led to an...

Dying to Make Money – are you joking?

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 14:31:00 -0500

I spent part of my Labor Day Weekend getting current on my required reading. From the pile of magazines that invade my mailbox monthly to a week’s worth of various and sundry newspapers, which I still get in that good old-fashioned printed way (quaint I...

Talking about BusinessWeek's "The Case for Optimism"

Thu, 27 Aug 2009 12:41:00 -0500

Taking a look at the newsstand lately, it may seem as if the covers of major periodicals are not - pardon the pun - on the same page. Only a week or two after Newsweek proclaimed "The Recession is Over," BusinessWeek has followed with "The...

Entrepreneurship News Round-Up: Week of 8/24/2009

Mon, 24 Aug 2009 13:01:00 -0500

For the final full week of August, we’ve got a few EXTRA links to share with you: An article by Mickey Meece in the Business Section of this weekend’s New York Times cites some recent Kauffman reports and delves into the continuing rise of “necessity...

Entrepreneurship News Round-Up: Week of 8/17/2009

Mon, 17 Aug 2009 14:18:00 -0500

The Wall Street Journal blog roundup today focuses on Venture Capital, and in specific what high-tech firms and entrepreneurs have to say about it. Jeremy Quiltner at BusinessWeek details IDBs – Industrial Development Bonds – as a means for entrepreneurs to finance land and equipment...

The Entrepreneurial Paradox: Profit or Power?

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 14:20:00 -0500

For many entrepreneurs, there’s some part of their personality – their drive, their adept deal-making ability, their stubbornness – that becomes a crucial component to the early success of their venture. But all too often, the time comes when the tables are turned, and it’s...

Starting a Business – Cheaper Than You Think

Tue, 11 Aug 2009 11:39:00 -0500

For many, the biggest problem with getting a good business idea off the ground is the cost. From administrative and legal costs, to product development and marketing, office space and employees, starting a business can be incredibly expensive. However, with the right set of...

Entrepreneurship News Round-Up: Week of 8/10/2009

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 14:56:00 -0500

Alibaba.com has kicked-off a new marketing campaign that includes TV, print and online media and targets entrepreneurs. There’s a new version of its U.S. microsite and three video "mock-umentaries" to greet visitors to the site with entertaining stories of how entrepreneurs used Alibaba.com to find...

Entrepreneurs Need R&R, too!

Wed, 05 Aug 2009 10:32:00 -0500

As we move into August, and inch ever-closer to Labor Day – the unofficial end of summer – I’ve been thinking a lot about squeezing the most out of the last few weeks of the beautiful summertime weather. July 4th is a fading memory,...

Entrepreneurship News Round-Up: Week of 8/3/2009

Mon, 03 Aug 2009 15:33:00 -0500

The Springfield Business Journal Online adds their observations on why our nation's recent economic woes have led to a rise in entrepreneurship, especially among first-time entrepreneurs. The Miami Herald details plans at two area colleges offering Certificate of Entrepreneurship programs for those looking to graduate with...

Innovation = Job Creation, it's a simple equation.

Fri, 31 Jul 2009 13:36:00 -0500

We are currently narrowing a field of 30 applicants for 12 available Postdoctoral Researcher/Entrepreneurship Fellowships. The basic premise is that we are selecting a dozen incredibly bright folks from science, technology, engineering and medical fields, and we are going to help them accelerate their...

A Different Kind of “Pitching:” Curt Schilling on Entrepreneurship

Thu, 30 Jul 2009 07:35:00 -0500

The roads that lead people to entrepreneurship are often as varied as the college campuses, Wall Street, Hollywood, basements and garages through which they wind – and sometimes even lead through Major League Baseball. Such has been the unlikely path of former MVP and All-Star pitcher, Curt...

Entrepreneurship News Round-Up: Week of 7/27/2009

Mon, 27 Jul 2009 14:58:00 -0500

BusinessWeek shares the results of a new study on what makes entrepreneurs tick - and the answer may surprise you. American Public Media research says the average tech-company founder is 39 and entrepreneurs over 50 outnumber those under 25 by a two-to-one margin. Marketplaces' Jeff Tyler...

Question: What is “Startup Culture?”

Wed, 22 Jul 2009 15:31:00 -0500

In a report this month from the Kauffman Foundation, entitled "The Anatomy of an Entrepreneur," 66.2 percent of respondents viewed “the appeal of a startup culture” as an important, very important, or extremely important motivation in becoming an entrepreneur. But what exactly is “startup...

Entrepreneurship News Round-Up: Week of 7/20/2009

Mon, 20 Jul 2009 13:30:00 -0500

Entrepreneurs are defying the recession in New Orleans, LA. "Even beyond the employment opportunities created by ongoing reconstruction projects, an explosion of entrepreneurialism... is incubating a re-birth of this historic city." From The Atlantic magazine. What does Barry Ritholtz think has the potential to be...

Entrepreneurial Justice

Thu, 16 Jul 2009 16:18:00 -0500

Judicial activism, Roe Vs. Wade, civil rights, constitutional interpretation – these are all topics that Judge Sonia Sotomayor has been grilled on in determining her fitness to sit on our nation’s highest court. Pretty much since the nomination of Judge Robert Bork, the confirmation...

If at first you don’t succeed… you might be an entrepreneur.

Wed, 15 Jul 2009 09:48:00 -0500

First calling entrepreneurs lazy, and now saying they’re failures, too? We seem to be going down a dangerous path of late on this blog. But the notion of “The Acceptance of Failure as a Spur to Innovation,” isn’t something of my creation – it’s...

Entrepreneurship News Round-Up: Week of 7/13/2009

Mon, 13 Jul 2009 13:49:00 -0500

Fast Company explains How the Tech Boom Terminated California's Economy and that the dot.com boom and subsequent, inevitable bust are the real causes of our economic malaise. Dr. Jeff Cornwall shares an article by John Tozzi at Business Week on the benefits of opening your...

Entrepreneurs are... lazy?

Fri, 10 Jul 2009 16:17:00 -0500

I’ve seen it argued that “laziness” is one of the most essential traits of some successful entrepreneurs because it leads them to innovate. They don’t complacently accept “the way it’s done,” if they can figure out an easier, faster way to get the same result. ...

Speaking at the 18th Annual Congress of the European Business & Innovation Centre Network (EBN) in Fez, Morocco

Wed, 08 Jul 2009 09:15:00 -0500

People from 30+ countries, speaking multiple languages, sharing diverse cultures, coming together around one theme – entrepreneurship. So it was recently when I had the opportunity to address the 18th Annual Congress of the European Business & Innovation Centre Network (EBN), in Fez,...

Entrepreneurship News Round-Up: Week of 7/6/2009

Mon, 06 Jul 2009 16:00:00 -0500

Bob Cringley writes about FreshJerky.com, a 1-man shop doing $1M annually on the internet. George Mason University economist Tyler Cowen discusses the impact new media is having on the economy in an interview with The Economist. Is entrepreneurship in decline? Steve King says no. BusinessWeek...

Entrepreneurship News Round-Up: Week of 6/29/2009

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 09:30:00 -0500

Barry Ritholtz on the Big Picture blog delves into a new article in "Scientific America" titled The Neuroscience Science of Bubbles and Busts. The article, which he calls "fascinating stuff," is a look at the “worst economic crisis since the Great Depression,” from the perspective of understanding...

VIDEO: Speaking About Entrepreneurship at the C2ER Conference

Fri, 26 Jun 2009 14:00:00 -0500

Earlier this month, I had the privilege of addressing a roomful of individuals at the 49th Annual Conference of the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER) in Kansas City, MO. The theme of this year’s event was "Energizing Entrepreneurship: Monitoring Progress, Making Change,” and...

Entrepreneurship News Round-Up: Week of 6/22/2009

Fri, 26 Jun 2009 12:06:00 -0500

Tyler Cowen on the Marginal Revolution blog raises the question (again) "which would you rather have, the fiscal stimulus or $775 billion in public health programs? Even better, how about $300 billion in stimulus -- the immediate stuff like aid to state governments -- and...

Entrepreneurship Is “Boom-ing”

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 13:46:00 -0500

“Economists know that entrepreneurship will drive the economy back to health, but many people may be surprised to learn that the baby boom generation is behind the wheel, according to a new study by the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation.” As detailed in this recent...

VIDEO: Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer says "The time is now!"

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 15:48:00 -0500

It sounds like the intro line from a corny recruitment brochure – “Want to make money, change the world – and have fun doing it?” But according to Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer, entrepreneurship might be the way to do just that! While speaking at the...

Entrepreneurship News Round-Up: Week of 6/15/2009

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 06:50:00 -0500

Tyler Cowen on the Marginal Revolution blog raises the question (again), "which would you rather have, the fiscal stimulus or $775 billion in public health programs? Even better, how about $300 billion in stimulus -- the immediate stuff like aid to state governments -- and...

Understanding Innovation

Fri, 19 Jun 2009 16:11:00 -0500

Successful entrepreneurship is, in many respects, a “perfect storm” of strategic planning, market opportunity, hard work, perseverance, the right team and countless other factors – some within your control as an entrepreneur, and some that aren’t. One factor that often plays a large role in...

Talking About Entrepreneurship on The Lou Hutt Show – XM Satellite Radio

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 15:13:00 -0500

"Your goals are influenced by your dreams; Your dreams, a reflection of your experience; Your experience is measured by your success, And your success is the bottom line.” A few weeks ago, I was an in-studio guest on entrepreneur/CPA/lawyer/author Lou Hutt’s popular XM Radio show...

eBay Sellers Challenge to Spark Entrepreneurial Spirit

Fri, 12 Jun 2009 12:00:00 -0500

San Jose, Calif.—June 9, 2009— eBay today launched the eBay Sellers Challenge, a unique initiative with a simple goal: empower and inspire entrepreneurs to grow existing businesses – or start new ones – on eBay. The Sellers Challenge asks entrepreneurs to answer a simple...

Downsize Me!

Fri, 12 Jun 2009 11:06:00 -0500

When hearing stories of downsizing – or “right-sizing” as is the popular euphemism of the day – one usually considers large manufacturing, construction firms or even big banks. These are the industries that have recently sustained large job losses due to the global economic collapse...

Kauffman Foundation Study Finds More than Half of Fortune 500 Companies Were Founded in Recession or Bear Market

Tue, 09 Jun 2009 16:24:00 -0500

A new study by the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation finds a silver lining in today's challenging economic times: Recessions can spur entrepreneurship, which leads to the creation of much-needed new jobs. The study The Economic Future Just Happened found that more than half of the...

Entrepreneurship in a Recession

Tue, 12 May 2009 13:48:00 -0500

The economy has slowed down, unemployment is up, and investment has grinded to a halt - so how does an entrepreneur, in the face of all odds, continue to thrive in such a market? The truth is,...

The Lost Word on the Economy

Thu, 23 Apr 2009 22:03:00 -0500

While pundits, columnists, economists, and policy makers climb over mountains of financial data, looking for signs of recovery and politically convenient scapegoats upon which we can turn a distracting public focus of populist rage and class warfare, there is a quiet but steady vibration...

Just what exactly are we trying to stimulate?

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 11:26:00 -0500

Question: What written document is so expensive that it comes out to about $4,800,849 per word? Answer: With approximately 177,052 words and a price tag of around $850 billion dollars, it is the recently approved American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 – a.k.a....

We Get What We Incentivize

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 16:47:00 -0500

Over the last two decades, I have been involved in several entrepreneurial endeavors that employed over a thousand people collectively. I have interviewed and hired many over that period of time, including negotiating compensation packages. The one thing I have learned from doing that...