Entrepreneurship SIG

Leader: Connie Zurcher

Entrepreneurs significantly impact the US economy by providing jobs, benefits and innovation.

According to the SBA, small businesses represent 99.7 percent of all employer firms and have created 60 to 80 percent of all new jobs within the last decade. In 2007, Minnesota had an estimated total of 504,000 small businesses.  In fact, there are more entrepreneurs over the age of 55 than in any other age group.

The Entrepreneurship SIG responds to the interests of SHiFT members who want to start their own business as consultants, franchise owners, new service providers, etc.  The group’s goal is to convene:

• Meetings hosted by business owners at their locations.
• Keynote speakers and panel discussions on topics related to the advancement of entrepreneurs.  
• Think Tank mentor services for members interested in becoming an entrepreneur.  Entrepreneurs both new and old can discuss issues and gain insights from a panel of knowledgeable advisors.

SHiFT maintains an easily accessible body of knowledge that individuals looking to start, grow, or improve their businesses will find invaluable.

Next Steps

Contact the SIG Leader.  See the Calendar for SIG events and meeting schedules.  Members: Visit the Online Forum to participate in a discussion board.