Why Attend Global Entrepreneurship Week?
Whether you’re planning to start your own company or already run a small business, Global Entrepreneurship Week Penn State has events designed to advance your business or innovative idea. We welcome local community members, entrepreneurs, small business owners, and Penn State students and faculty to attend events. You’ll have the opportunity to meet with like-minded members of the community and special presenters who share your desire to innovate and make an impact.
By participating, you will be a part of a global celebration of entrepreneurship. Annually, 180 countries host a combined total of 35,000 events to an audience of 10 million+ people! Join us for a weeklong celebration that connects community members and aspiring business owners with a vibrant ecosystem of entrepreneurs, investors, researchers, and startup champions across Penn State campuses and communities.
The Penn State SBDC coordinates and manages core programming with input from a collaborative planning committee consisting of Invent Penn State, the Office of Entrepreneurship and Commercialization, and community partners. If you have questions about this year’s program, please reach out to Community Engagement Specialist Autumn Cowher.
What You’ll Experience at GEW
Global Entrepreneurship Week is your chance to explore, learn, and connect — all in the spirit of “Removing Barriers and Welcoming All.” From hands-on workshops and inspiring talks to networking events and policy discussions, there’s something for everyone. While every GEW is unique, many events highlight topics such as:
- Education
- Skill-building workshops, pitch competitions, and maker sessions that help you bring your ideas to life.
- Ecosystem
- Networking events, startup showcases, and innovation space tours that connect you with the local entrepreneurial community.
- Inclusion
- Panels, spotlights, and programs celebrating diverse voices and breaking down barriers in entrepreneurship.
- Policy
- Conversations with policymakers, funding info sessions, and discussions about the future of entrepreneurship.