Global Entrepreneurship Week Comes to CofC

They may be self-starters, trailblazers and pioneers in their respective industries, but just because entrepreneurs are forging their own paths doesn’t mean they have to do it alone. Especially not during Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW).

Nov. 13 through Nov. 19, 2017, millions of entrepreneurs from 160 countries across the world connect through the spirit of entrepreneurship to celebrate innovators and job creators who bring ideas to life, drive economic growth and expand human welfare. With activities on the local, national and global scale, GEW creates opportunities for entrepreneurs to connect and collaborate with one another – and with potential mentors and investors – giving them a sense of support and guidance as they take that next step in their entrepreneurial journeys.

For many entrepreneurs, that journey starts at the College of Charleston. And, this year, the Center for Entrepreneurship in the College’s School of Business is joining the GEW initiative with a week of networking events for students, faculty and the community at large. With events featuring CofC economics faculty, the School of Business’ social entrepreneur-in-residence, as well as experts in the real estate, water and development fields, GEW at the College is packed full of opportunities for entrepreneurs at any stage of their journey.

Here is rundown of the GEW events at the College of Charleston:

“The Story of JYVE: From Entrepreneurship Classroom to Tech Startup” – Monday, Nov. 13, 2–3 p.m. in the Wells Fargo Auditorium, Beatty Center, 5 Liberty St.

Founder of JYVE, a live music booking app that connects artists with local music venues, Brandon Brooks ’15 (pictured above) and his business partners Will Bragunier ’16, Shannon Caulk ’17 and CofC student Michael Buhler will share their journey as young entrepreneurs, highlighting how they came up with a platform that helps musicians gain visibility and venues discover new talent. More info and RSVP here.

“Regional Economic Development in Charleston” – Tuesday, Nov. 14, 5:30–6:30 p.m. in Room 207 of the Tate Center, 5 Liberty St.

This panel discussion on the regional economic development of the peninsula and the greater Charleston area features economics professor and director of the Office of Economic Analysis Frank Hefner, economics professor and founding director of the Center for Public Choice and Market Process Peter Calcagno and executive director of Charleston County Economic Development Steve Dykes. The Center for Public Choice and Market Process is a co-sponsor of this event. A light reception will follow. More info and RSVP here.

“Skin in the Game: A Discussion Race and Entrepreneurship in America” – Wednesday, Nov. 15, 2–3:15 p.m. in the Wells Fargo Auditorium, Beatty Center, 5 Liberty St.

This year’s George G. Spaulding Series Distinguished Speaker Stephen Gilchrist, chairman of the South Carolina African American Chamber of Commerce, will lead a discussion on race and entrepreneurship. Gilchrist has long worked in public policy, economic reform and educational choice, and he is also the president and CEO of GSL Distributors, a logistics and distribution company. Highlighting the obstacles facing many minority small business owners, Gilchrist’s talk will include his personal journey as a minority entrepreneur and small business advocate. Part of the College of Charleston Center for Entrepreneurship’s George G. Spaulding Distinguished Executive Speaker Series, this event does require an RSVP.

Business of Water Special Guest Luncheon – Friday, Nov. 17, 12–1:30 p.m.

South Carolina Ports Authority permit manager Mark Messersmith, impact investing expert and School of Business social entrepreneur-in-residence, Stuart Williams and chief of the Vessel Security Division at the United States Coast Guard, Marine Safety Center, Lt. J.B. Zorn will come together for a lively discussion on water and its impact on local, national and international communities from an economic and social perspective. This event is by invitation only.