NCET

Nevada continues to be recognized nationwide for our entrepreneurial climate, even in times of national economic uncertainty. As a state founded by entrepreneurs, we fully believe Nevada will remain a state that continues to thrive into the future because of our ever-present entrepreneurial spirit.

Small businesses employ half of the workers in the private sector in this country, account for the majority of the job growth, and according to the Small Business Administration, have generated 60 percent to 80 percent of net new jobs annually during the past decade. In an environment where so many are finding themselves out of traditional jobs, we fully anticipate a surge in startups from entrepreneurs.

That’s good news for all of us.

The SBA reports that while every industry saw employment losses during 2008, the figures for incorporated self-employed businesses remained steady.

NCET, Nevada’s Center for Entrepreneurship and Technology, is an independent nonprofit organization that works year-round to help Nevada start businesses, and to connect them to the resources they need to succeed. This mission is even more vital to the overall health and well-being of our state and local economies than ever before.

Going into business for yourself can be a daunting prospect, especially in this uncertain economic environment. However, a slow economy also is a time that presents entrepreneurs with opportunities, if only they know where to look for guidance, information and education. That’s just one reason why participation in and support of the upcoming in eWeek Nevada 2009 is more important than ever before.

eWeek Nevada 2009 will be observed March 7-15 in Northern Nevada. The week includes a variety of events and activities designed specifically for entrepreneurs and small business owners. Highlights include NCET’s 10th Anniversary Dinner, a special  eWeek Wi-Fi Wednesday, and of course, the week’s capstone, NCET’s Entrepreneur Expo. (You can find a complete schedule at www.eWeekNevada.com.)

Now in its third year, the NCET Entrepreneur Expo will be held Friday, March 13 at the Atlantis Hotel and Casino from 8:00 am – 7:00 pm. This is Greater Reno- Tahoe’s only Expo designed specifically for the micro  and small business owner. The free, all-day event features 100 exhibitors and 20 speakers, as well as representatives from a wide variety of Federal, state, county and local government agencies. Free seminars in both English and Spanish provide information on financing, marketing, business plans, networking, and more.

I strongly encourage all business professionals – pre-start-up, start-up, self-employed, home-based and small business owners – to join us in celebrating eWeek Nevada 2009. There are numerous ways to be involved, all of which will benefit your business and support our vitally important base of home-grown small businesses. For more information, visit www.NCET.org or call (775) 315-7635.

NCET, Nevada’s Center for Entrepreneurship and Technology, helps Nevadans start and grow businesses and connects them to the resources they need to succeed.  NCET is an independent award-winning 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization funded by public contributions, sponsorships, program revenues and limited grants. NCET receives no state funding.