NZ makes global impact as first to see in Global Entrepreneurship Week 2011

As first to see the sun, New Zealand had the honor of launching Global Entrepreneurship Week for the world.

Hosted by the Deputy Mayor of the Capital city, Wellington, the breakfast and networking event held in the mayoral chambers attracted a 120 strong audience including ambassadors from 18 other GEW participating countries and some of New Zealand’s business elite.

Guests heard about the importance of GEW to New Zealand’s economy reflecting on our entrepreneurial history established by the country’s colonial settlers.

The audience agreed, ‘entrepreneurship is in our DNA’ but also agreed that increased courage and support is needed for more people to realize their creative ideas.

GEW NZ Chair Rob Acton says “there are lots of really great things going on here, but New Zealand needs to lift the game to continue being globally competitive.”

Audience members represented a cross-section of industries including tertiary, government, local councils, industry associations, and budding and established entrepreneurs.

The event was the first of many to be held around New Zealand, with the next major one being the Intrapreneurship Summit happening tomorrow in Auckland.

As noted by New Zealander of the year and internationally esteemed scientist, Sir Paul Callaghan, “New Zealand only needs 100 inspired people to turn this country around.” GEW has an important place in this country towards achieving that.