In a global campaign where more than 100 countries share the same overall mission -- and brand -- it can be difficult to take note of the differences that each country brings. While everyone is connected by the Unleashing Ideas network, each individual campaign looks to find unique was to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs. The US is no different, using its broad reach and range of activities to make the Week a success.

In 2010, Global Entrepreneurship Week/USA reached more than 445,000 people from all walks of life in all corners of the country. The Week had 1,313 partners (up 17% from 2009) who hosted 3,286 events (a 41% increase from 2009). Each event was unique and there was something for everyone.  

During GEW, the US put an emphasis on recognizing and supporting entrepreneurs who have started their own companies.  Startup Open, sponsored by DYMO Labeling, was a competition to find high-growth startups, with the grand prize winner getting an all-expenses-paid trip to Richard Branson’s private island to network with other entrepreneurs. Startup Weekend hosted over a dozen events around the US which brought together highly motivated groups to collaborate on building companies and projects. Other events like the Global Student Entrepreneur Awards, Michigan Emerging, and The Tulseys recognized and encouraged entrepreneurs.

Policymakers saw the importance of inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs during the Week. President Barack Obama declared November 19th National Entrepreneurs’ Day, the US Senate passed a resolution in support of the Week and many Governors and local Mayors endorsed the week too. The US Chamber of Commerce and the Consumer Electronics Association held events to spotlight specific policies important to entrepreneurs.

Over 350 universities created events that reached students outside of the business colleges and inspired students from all disciplines. The University of Miami had several events including ones that showed students how entrepreneurship relates to restaurants, sports and fashion. The New York Stock Exchange hosted Movers and Changers, an event for college students to get first hand advice from successful entrepreneurs from a range of backgrounds and hear how they got their start. 

Finally the Week reached students in middle school and high school who were just starting to learn what entrepreneurship means. DECA had over 2,000 participate in an entrepreneurship scavenger hunt around Washington, DC. Students at St. Michael’s Catholic Academy in Austin, TX talked with JA students in Brazil about similarities and differences around entrepreneurship.  All of these activities combined help to inspire, encourage, and support the next generation of entrepreneurs in the United States. With planning well under way for GEW/USA 2011, the Week will continue to expand and help keep the entrepreneurial spirit alive in the US.

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