Why Entrepreneurship Is Important
Sunday, May 29, 2011
Entrepreneurship has become a hot topic over the last couple of years as the economic crisis has continued. Start-ups appearing across the United States range from mobile phone apps, green living, to eclectic coffee shops, with some succeeding and others forced back to the drawing board. Large plants of yesterday have become the Googles of today and new markets continue to be discovered. With this age-old business medium of entrepreneurship rekindling, how can Grant County join the movement and why is it important?
One of the reasons entrepreneurship is so valuable to a community is because of the tools it relies on to be a success. Education is an example of on of these tools. While some entrepreneurs are born others can be taught and inspired to think creatively when reaching towards their goals. Young entrepreneurs are the most viable individuals to take on the challenge of entrepreneurship because they are in a position to take on risk without concern of large losses (i.e. family, home, savings). In an article about entrepreneurship in higher education by Robert Cerhnow, he wrote that the skills that "embody entrepreneurship are real life skills required in today's global hypercompetitive world."Educating students about entrepreneurship gives them a stepping-stone to move upwards, whether that means going on to college, starting their own business, or joining the workforce.
Growth is spurred by entrepreneurship. Whether it's the Google or the local mom and pop shops, entrepreneurs are a large part of the growth that happens in a community. MERIC (Missouri Economic Research and Information Center) conducted a study regarding entrepreneurship as the driving force of a new economy. The study stated that, "Entrepreneurs help build communities in ways such as providing jobs, conducting business locally, creating and participating in entrepreneurial networks, investing in community projects, and giving to local charities." Many states have taken to implementing policy that support entrepreneurs and have developed tactics to help entrepreneurs grow as well. Growth is important for any community.
With the realization that entrepreneurship is a necessity, the Growth Council is ready to take part in fostering its local entrepreneurs. New and ongoing projects include high school entrepreneurship programs, enhancing the I69 Collegiate Innovation Challenge for college students, and financial assistance. As the future of Grant County entrepreneurs continues forward, focus on the entrepreneurs. Revitalize the community by bringing in new and innovative ideas. Help educate young students to think creatively and how to take risk. Become a part of the "economic gardening", either as an entrepreneur or by supporting one. Take part in the Growth Council's vision of making Grant County one of the best places to live, learn, work, and retire in Indiana.
-Its All Cool (May) Chronicle Tribune