A Year for Entrepreneurs

Welcome to 2012 – a year which, without any official proclamation, will likely be an excellent year for entrepreneurs. In so many respects, advocates in 2011 for startups and entrepreneurs could not have done better in setting up 2012. Better data, more relevant policy and legislation, streamlined programming and more widespread public support should give all reason to be optimistic that more people will take a risk, unleash an idea and make a job. And we should expect even more new developments that will shape even better entrepreneurship ecosystems across the world.

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How Do We Strengthen US Competitiveness?
In a world where seemingly every nation is scrambling to bolster innovation and entrepreneurship, how can the U.S. strengthen its competitiveness? According to a new report from the Department of Commerce, the formula is simple and based on looking at the country’s track record for promoting innovation—increased government funding for research, education and infrastructure. It argues that “failures to properly invest in, and have comprehensive strategies for” those three pillars are responsible for the shrinking gap between the US and other nations. [More]

Emerging Scholars Doing Ground Breaking Research in Entrepreneurship
Two professors from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business are sharing the top prize for the Kauffman Foundation’s 2012 Prize Medal for Distinguished Research in Entrepreneurship. In addition, 15 exceptional doctoral students were recognized with fellowships to support their dissertation research. [More]

VC Industry Continues Consolidation in 2011
According to the latest figures from the National Venture Capital Association, dollars invested are on the rise while the number of funds continues to fall. In the US, thirty-eight (38) venture capital funds raised $5.6 billion in the fourth quarter of 2011—representing an increase of 162% in commitments. While the total number of funds for 2011 held constant in comparison to 2010 totals, the fourth quarter total of 38 marks a low point since the third quarter of 2009. [More]

A Look Back at Innovation Daily
Each day, Innovation Daily checks the pulse of global innovation-- courtesy of Innovation America. Here, we take a look at a handful of relevant stories it compiled last week. [More]

This Week in Entrepreneurship Policy
No hearings scheduled for the week ahead. The House of Representatives is scheduled to convene on Tuesday, January 17 with the Senate scheduled for Monday, January 23. [More]