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As we step into the vibrancy of fall in Oklahoma, I find myself reflecting on the spirit of entrepreneurship that defines our great state. This season, like entrepreneurship, is a time of transformation and growth. There are application deadlines, funding activities, final sprints, end of year checklists and yet, despite all the chaos, autumn seems to usher in a season of gratitude and togetherness. The (hopefully) crisp air will arrive with a burst of vibrant colors as people begin making holiday plans, talk will turn to favorite foods, possibly elections, honoring veterans, and in this community…. Global Entrepreneurship Week. The 2023 campaign “Entrepreneurs Thrive Here” could not be more apt regarding Oklahoma – because I truly believe that as we collaborate and come together, we can all thrive together, and OVF is a great place to begin!
Global Entrepreneurship Week is a movement to celebrate and empower entrepreneurs in every country and community around the world – especially those who face structural barriers or may have never considered the idea of launching a startup. Each November 10 million people take part in tens of thousands of activities, competitions and events that inspire them to act and provide them with the knowledge, experience, and connections they need to succeed. It envisions one entrepreneurial ecosystem open to all, including smaller cities in emerging economies and under-represented communities, whether systemically marginalized, geographically hard-to-reach or otherwise pushed aside or left out. While GEW only takes place one week each year (Nov 13-19), the connections made are long-lasting. There are activities across Oklahoma, and I encourage you to attend as many events as you can. OVF is proud to participate in this effort to grow our ecosystem and connect our members to other ecosystem builders across the state.
So, as the days grow shorter, let us seize the opportunities this season offers. I encourage you to participate in the array of fall activities across Oklahoma. Whether you're visiting a pumpkin patch, attending a networking event, or attending Bedlam, this season presents a chance to connect with your fellow entrepreneurs, share your experiences, and celebrate our collective success.
Be on the lookout for your chance to nominate your favorite ventures and efforts for the 2024 OVF Awards. There will be a final push for sponsorship as we execute plans to honor the awesome individuals and organizations touched by our membership. You might also start seeing more activity from our committees – don’t be shy, let us know if you want to join one of them. This fall, as the leaves fall and new ideas rise, let us embrace the beauty of change and growth and take advantage of all the ways expand your connections within OVF.
Happy Fall, y’all!
I look forward to seeing you at the November 8th Power Lunch hosted at Metro Tech Spring Lake with our main speaker Barry Day who is “Presenting the Oklahoma Clean Technology Association and the 8 Pillars of Cleantech.”
Register to attend November 8th Power Lunch
