Kansas City’s participation in the 11th annual Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW) will bring more than 170 events aimed at entrepreneurs and growing businesses.
“Global Entrepreneurship Week inspires our community’s makers, doers and creators to take the next step in starting or growing their business.” said Erin Jenkins, program officer in entrepreneurship at the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation. “Whether you’re already your own boss or you aspire to be, this week offers the educational tools and networking opportunities to make it your reality.”
GEWKC is a collaborative, open-sourced environment in which local organizations create and host events that enhance the local community of makers, doers and creators. Events provide opportunities to network with current and aspiring business owners, brainstorm new ideas and hear from other like-minded business people.
“There are a lot of great resources and classes throughout the week for everyone from those looking to start a business to those looking to scale their business,” said Jenny Miller, network builder at KCSourceLink.
GEWKC will begin Nov. 12 and is headquartered at Plexpod Westport Commons, where attendees can select events from one of four tracks: Makers and Creators, Startups, Scalers, and Social Enterprises. All events are free to attend.
Among the key events:
- Grind Pretty: Successful Women’s Excelerator, 12-3 p.m., Monday, Nov. 12
- Young Entrepreneurs Showcase, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 13
- Business Resource Fair, 4-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 13
- Midwest Funding Showcase, 2-4 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 15
- Wrap-Up Celebration, 5-7:30 p.m., Friday. Nov. 16
A full schedule of events can be found at GEWKC.org. Use the hashtag #GEWKC to connect on social media with other participants.
GEW was founded by the Kauffman Foundation in 2008 and has expanded to more than 160 countries. During one week each November, thousands of events and competitions around the world inspire millions to engage in entrepreneurial activity while connecting them to potential collaborators, mentors and investors.
