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Global Entrepreneurship Week 2008 has officially begun!

At 5:45 AM here in Auckland, the sun rose on New Zealand, on Global Entrepreneurship Week and on the entrepreneurial aspirations of millions of people around the world. I spoke to the Mayor of Gisborne, where the sun rises first and congratulated him on his distinction of hosting the first event of more than 13,000 to happen over the next 7 days. I also joined the morning TV shows - including ASB Business.


After gathering to witness the sunrise, we headed to Assa’s Deli - a new business that opened at sunrise on Simon Street where I had the honour of being the first customer. Thank you Assa! Zealand ranks as one of the easiest places to start a business - which is partly why why Assa who is from Israel chose to set up shop in Auckland. While Global Entrepreneurship Week/New Zealand wants a wider base next year, Rob Acton (who has led the effort) should be proud of what lies ahead here this week. Thanks especially to our sponsors IBM for hosting a women and technology event and Ernst & Young for planning a cocktail party and a luncheon seminar this week.

 

New Zealand just elected a new Prime Minister, John Key who ran on cutting taxes, freeing up business regulation and outsourcing more public services - policies that often help encourage new start ups. John Key inherits an anticipated 5.7 per cent unemployment rate, declining tax revenues, weaker export demand and lower commodity and housing prices but he did not look glum this morning. Far from it - “Let the show begin” he said. I would like to think he was referring to Global Entrepreneurship Week. But if not, John, fear not, we are surrounding you with optimistic, “what’s your big idea”, “make your mark” Kiwis who exude plenty of confidence and hope - something every world leader could do with a dose of right now.


Good luck all. Watch for my next post from Sydney later today.

- Post Provided By Jonathan Ortmans
 


Written By: aeonsien
Date Posted: 11/17/2008
Number of Views: 390

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