About RISE ’08
There is no better place on earth than Austin, Texas for an entrepreneur to gather
the tools they need for success. As a unique intersection of the academic, public
and private sectors, our city has proven itself to be an environment for entrepreneurs
to succeed. Austin is home to household names such as Dell Inc, Whole Foods Market,
GSD&M-Idea City, Keller Williams, Silicon Labs, SFX Broadcasting, Amy’s Ice
Cream and Sweet Leaf Tea, among many others. Austin continues to be a leader in
developing top level entrepreneurs who transform their vision into successful businesses
that greatly contribute to our local, national and global economy.
Through RISE — A Relationship and Information Series for Entrepreneurs —
expertise is exchanged as entrepreneurs from multiple industries and backgrounds
connect with each other as well as members of the academic, financial, non-profit,
and government sectors to share their experience, challenges and resources.
From March 4-6, aspiring entrepreneurs may attend free RISE Sessions led by successful
members of the Austin business community. Unlike a traditional conference, RISE
Sessions are limited to 20 participants and take place all over the city in areas
where entrepreneurs naturally congregate. From board rooms to coffee shops, from
office parks to Zilker Park, entrepreneurs gather to learn, share and recharge.
RISE began in the Spring of 2007, when more than 500 entrepreneurs participated
in 40 sessions across the city. Texas Governor Rick Perry and Austin Mayor Will
Wynn declared the first week in March as Entrepreneurship Week. Admiral Bobby Inman,
a local venture capitalist and great supporter of entrepreneurs, provided a special
keynote address on The State of Entrepreneurship. City Hall hosted a celebration
with presentations from University of Texas Provost Steven Leslie and PR legend
Julian Read. Austin embraced the concept of RISE and an annual entrepreneurship
event was born. Click here to see more about RISE 07.
Join the RISE community in 2008 by participating in a RISE Session, attending a
RISE event, or telling others you know about the opportunity to connect with expert
experience and expertise.