The word “entrepreneur” has its origins in the French language. It is derived from the word entreprendre, which means “to undertake.” Entrepreneurs are, indeed, people who undertake. They are the intrepid minds that generate new business ideas and undertake the task of implementing them.
Being a successful entrepreneur takes creativity, business acumen, and perhaps most importantly, vision. The risks of starting a new venture may be daunting, but if successful, the rewards can be limitless.
Richard Branson, Bill Gates, Henry Ford and Estee Lauder are all glowing examples of what entrepreneurs can accomplish with the correct mix of vision, resolve and funding. The benefits far exceed just personal gain. Their contributions have led to economic growth by way of technological innovations, new product development and job creation.
It is the recognition of this impact and the desire to encourage future economic growth which has lead the Chenango County Board of Supervisors, at the behest of Brower Communications and Commerce Chenango, to declare Sept. 22-27 as Entrepreneurship Week.
“The critical role entrepreneurs have played in advancing the national economy make it vital to encourage young people from all academic backgrounds and all walks of life to explore their entrepreneurial potential,” read the Board of Supervisors’ proclamation issued in August.
Although admittedly not on the same scale as Branson and Gates, we have wonderful examples of entrepreneurism right here in Chenango County. Raymond Corporation, Golden Artist Colors, The Silo Restaurant, Hayes Office Supply and Blueox are just a handful of the successful businesses started in the area by visionary locals.
Business consultant Bruce Erath is employed by yet another company started by an entrepreneur: The Voss Group. Established in 1976 by Elwyn G. Voss, the firm provides financial planning and advising services.
“Entrepreneurs are the backbone of the upstate New York economy,” said Erath. “We need to encourage our young people to think of entrepreneurship as an option.”
