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Where Entrepreneurs and Small Businesses Can Build with People Who Get It.Together We Build.

Global Entrepreneurship Week Rochester 2025 is an opportunity for a region-wide celebration of the people, programs and partnerships building our local economy. Across industries, cultures, and stages of growth, we’re connecting visionaries, changemakers, and supporters shaping the future of business in our community.Empower Local Entrepreneurs: Spotlight and equip entrepreneurs with tools, visibility, and networks.
Strengthen the Entrepreneurial Ecosystem: Coordinate resources, build trust, and expand network visibility.
Break Down Barriers to Growth: Address capital, market access, and policy hurdles.
Build Together Across Sectors: Facilitate collaboration between entrepreneurs, ecosystem builders, funders, and policymakers.

November 18, 2025
_{9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
at The Connect Lab}

Day 1: Foundations for Entrepreneurial Growth

No jargon. No gatekeeping. Just real knowledge, useful tools, and a community that believes in building businesses that reflect the people
behind them.

Kick-off Panel: “From Idea to First Customer”
– Real talk from local entrepreneurs on how they got started, stayed motivated, and overcame early challenges.Hands-On Workshops: Business Model Canvas or Lean Canvas sessions to help you shape your idea into a clear plan.Breakout Sessions: Foundations: Legal structure, bookkeeping, and compliance basics.Building Presence: Branding, digital presence, and telling your business story.Lunch + Mentor Match-Up: Connect with experienced founders, mentors, and ecosystem partners.Afternoon Session: “Funding Your First Steps”
– Explore micro-grants, micro-loans, and early funding options.Ecosystem Roundtable:
Meet the people and programs that can support your next step.