TechnoServe Named Official Partner of Global Entrepreneurship Week; Takes Host Role in Swaziland

The initiative aims to foster the entrepreneurial spirit in young people across six continents with the goal of sustainable social change.

NOVEMBER 13, 2009 — Global Entrepreneurship Week, running from November 16-22, is a world-wide effort that connects millions of young people throughout the globe in the spirit of entrepreneurship. Its goal is to inspire and motivate the next generation to embrace innovation and empower them to make their dreams and ideas a reality. In doing so, they will have the opportunity to make a positive and sustainable impact on their own lives, as well as the lives of their families and communities.

TechnoServe has been named an official partner of Global Entrepreneurship Week and will be acting as the host organization in Swaziland. Activities officially begin with a launch event presided over by the country’s Minister for Commerce, Industry and Trade, followed by a series of networking events, roundtable discussions, lectures and award ceremonies coordinated by TechnoServe. These events aim to provide young people with the skills and knowledge required to address some of the world’s most pressing needs through the growth of business.

TechnoServe’s strategy closely reflects the ideals and mission of Global Entrepreneurship Week, centering on “the entrepreneurship funnel,” which follows an entrepreneur from the early development phase through operating established businesses. TechnoServe intervenes at all levels, providing practical, business and entrepreneurship training, as well as access to the capital and support services they need to build dynamic small growing businesses. In its most recent work with the Nike Foundation and Goldman Sachs, TechnoServe is growing a specific focus on supporting and capacitating women entrepreneurs.

For more information on Global Entrepreneurship Week, please visit their website at www.unleashingideas.org

About TechnoServe: TechnoServe is leading a movement that empowers people in the developing world to build businesses that break the cycle of poverty. Growing enterprises generate jobs and other income opportunities for poor people, enabling them to improve their lives and secure a better future for their families. Since its founding in 1968, the U.S.-based nonprofit has helped to create or expand thousands of businesses, benefiting millions of people in more than 30 countries. The Financial Times has rated TechnoServe one of the top five NGOs for corporate partnerships. Charity Navigator has also awarded its highest Four Star ranking to TechnoServe.

Andrew Eder, Senior Marketing Communications Coordinator, TechnoServe
Tel: +1 (202) 719-1327; Email: aeder@tns.org.