Creating Entrepreneurial Communities Institute
Arts, culture, heritage and creativity are essential assets contributing to entrepreneurial communities. How do we translate these and other assets into networks and business enterprises that revitalize communities and regions? One way is to consider project development and training opportunities through the Michigan State University Product Center in partnership with the Michigan Department of History, Arts and Libraries, Michigan State University Extension and University Outreach, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, Michigan Small Business and Technology Development Centers, and the Edward Lowe Foundation.

Six to eight pilot communities will be selected (for an application process) for an intensive week- long training institute involving the highly successful E2 (Energizing Entrepreneurship) curriculum from the Heartland Center, in Nebraska. This training will take place in February 20- 23, 2007. Each of the pilot communities will be assigned two community coaches (MSUE, SBTDC, HAL personnel) who will participate in the E2 training with the communities, and then work individually and on-site with each community in institutionalizing the community-based entrepreneurship strategies within their local environment.

In late fall, 2007, the pilot communities will assemble for a "peer to peer" mentoring retreat at the Edward Lowe Foundation headquarters. The Lowe Foundation has developed expertise in facilitating peer-to-peer discussions for group learning. In February/March, 2008, a follow-up statewide conference will be held on community-based entrepreneurship strategies with the intent of featuring the successes and challenges of the initial pilot communities.

Apply to be apart of the Institute, go to: Application for Pilot Communities Program. The application deadline in December 8, 2006 and there is a one time community fee.

For more information contact the MSU Product Center:

Barb Fails
Assistant Director
MSU Product Center
Michigan State University
82 Agriculture Hall
East Lansing, MI 48824
(517) 432-3287
fails@msu.edu

For the October 26, 2006 Creating Entrepreneurial Communities in Michigan conference presentation information and additional MSU Product Center Training Opportunities go to http://www.productcenter.msu.edu/ed.htm
See also: Creating Entrepreneurial Communities in Michigan Pilot Communities Program

Updated 11/27/2006

Cultural Economic Development, Department of History, Arts and Libraries
Contact cculha@michigan.gov with your question or comment about this page.