Gov. Beshear Celebrates Global Entrepreneurship Week

Contact:
Kerri Richardson
502.564.2611
502.330.6633
 
Terry Sebastian
502.564.2611
502.229.6130

Joe Hall
502.564.4886

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Gov. Beshear Celebrates Global Entrepreneurship Week
Commonwealth continues to receive national recognition for entrepreneurial support

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Nov. 19, 2014) – Governor Steve Beshear is celebrating Global Entrepreneurship Week by recognizing those Kentuckians who create jobs and inspire new ideas here in the Commonwealth.

“Entrepreneurs drive Kentucky’s growing economy,” said Gov. Beshear. “Kentucky has made great strides to support our small business community, encourage innovation and put more Kentuckians back to work. We honor these visionaries and thank them for growing their ideas right here in the Commonwealth.”

Global Entrepreneurship Week, Nov. 17-23, is the world’s largest celebration of the innovators and small business creators. Started by the Kauffman Foundation, an international nonprofit focused on entrepreneurship and education, Global Entrepreneurship Week is celebrated around the world.

Kentucky continues to receive national recognition for its support and development of entrepreneurs. The State Entrepreneurship Index ranked Kentucky fourth in the country for its ability to create small businesses, a 45-spot jump from a year ago. The Bureau of Labor Statistics says Kentucky has the highest percentage growth of business establishments in the nation. The Kauffman Foundation and Thumbtack.com gave Kentucky an “A” rating for small business friendliness.

Last year, Gov. Beshear launched the Office of Entrepreneurship within the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development. The goals of the office are to strengthen the state’s entrepreneurial climate, provide guidance and support to startups and assist existing small businesses with growth opportunities.

The Office of Entrepreneurship also oversees the Kentucky Innovation Network. Consisting of 13 offices that reach all corners of the state, the Network offers extensive resources for small and new businesses, including funding initiatives, marketing and sales assistance, along with a variety of financial and incentive programs. All services are provided free of charge.

Kentucky’s youth and young adult entrepreneur programs also are growing rapidly. The Governor’s School for Entrepreneurs encourages innovation among high school students. Idea State U, a statewide business plan competition, is designed to encourage innovation and entrepreneurship at the college level.

“Anyone can be the next great entrepreneur, and the Commonwealth offers the resources to make those aspirations come true,” said Secretary Larry Hayes, of the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development. “We know the key to our future economic prosperity and job creation will come from that person who has a great idea on the back of a napkin. Kentucky is committed to supporting these visionaries every step of the way.”

Learn more about how Kentucky is celebrating Global Entrepreneurship Week here.