Gov. Inslee proclaims November as Global Entrepreneurship Month in Washington

More than 250 events planned statewide to introduce residents to the idea of starting a business.

OLYMPIA, WA – Recognizing the importance of entrepreneurship to Washington’s economy, Gov. Jay Inslee has proclaimed November Global Entrepreneurship Month.

The Department of Commerce has identified more than 250 events statewide during the month of November that cover the entire span of entrepreneurship activities, from networking opportunities and business plan competitions to coffee with an entrepreneur. These events are hosted by organizations statewide and are listed on an interactive map on Commerce’s small business website, Startup.ChooseWashingtonState.com.

This month-long series of events is part of an international celebration of entrepreneurship that dates back to 2008. More than 170 countries participate in Global Entrepreneurship Week in November, which is supported by the Kauffman Foundation. Washington has participated in the celebration since 2014, coordinating more than 600 events statewide.

“More than 90% of our state’s businesses are small businesses,” said Dr. Lisa Brown, Commerce director. “They are the lifeblood of local economies, creating jobs that strengthen communities. Global Entrepreneurship Month is a unique opportunity for everyone to explore the idea of starting a business and being their own boss.”

Global Entrepreneurship Month is part of Commerce’s small business assistance ecosystem which takes companies from the ideation stage through the second stage where they are large enough to export, seek investment or expand exponentially. This suite of programs and tools provide entrepreneurs and small business owners with the diagnostics, analytics and resources needed to make informed decisions at every juncture. Learn more at Startup.ChooseWashingtonState.com.

For a complete list of Global Entrepreneurship Month events, visit: http://bit.ly/wa-gem