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Global Entrepreneurship Week

So - what is it?

In 2008, Enterprise Week will be part of Global Entrepreneurship Week. Global Entrepreneurship Week is the first worldwide celebration of enterprise, which aims to unleash young people’s enterprising ideas and address some of society’s biggest issues, from poverty reduction through to climate change.

It was inspired by our own Enterprise Week and founded by Make Your Mark and the Kauffman Foundation, the world's largest foundation dedicated to entrepreneurship. Activities from speeches and speednetworking through to large scale competitions will inspire, connect, inform, mentor and engage the next generation of entrepreneurs. And, while it may be global in scope, at its heart are many local initiative reflecting the customs and entrepreneurial culture of the many countries taking part.

Ah, I get it - why should I get involved?

Reach a larger number of young people with a passion for enterprise

Global Entrepreneurship Week is an opportunity to reach out to new audiences of young people. For your Enterprise Week 2008 activities think about connecting with those who have international links e.g. Diaspora communities, or share global interests e.g. climate change.

Help connect young people internationally

The two Signature Activities of Global Entrepreneurship Week will be designed to help you meet like-minded people across the world.  “Speednetwork the Globe” and “Unleash It!” will connect thousands of young people in other countries both online and offline and provide a unique international experience for young people everywhere.

Great, I'm in - now what do I do?

Download activity suggestions from the EMDA meet-up (PDF 25 KB)

Are you already planning an event for Enterprise Week 2008?

Build in a global theme this year, such as climate change, global poverty, international conflict, or sustainable growth.  For example:  propose innovative solutions for your school or company's carbon footprint. 

Do you know people in the UK interested in international links/issues?

Suggest they run an event for Enterprise Week, tying in their area of interest (they could be any of the above) with entrepreneurship.  For example:  come up with an enterprising fundraising solution for your favourite international charity.

Are you a member of an international network, or do you run one?

Get the network members to visit www.unleashingideas.org and get involved in activities in their country. 

Encourage the network leader to run an activity - online or offline - to bring together the network around the theme of entrepreneurship.   Ask your network to recommend people who can run, or help run, Global Entrepreneurship Week in their own country.

Do you have international contacts?  Or clients?  Or suppliers?

Direct them to www.unleashingideas.org for ideas and examples of activities happening in their country. 

Involve them in your Enterprise Week activities - or create a new activity that brings them all together.