SOUTHFIELD – I am honored to have been afforded the opportunity to lead TiE Detroit, with the mission of promoting entrepreneurship, and to create a sustained economy. Michiganders know full well what this recovery will mean to the State of Michigan.
The economic despair of 2010 was challenging to small entrepreneurs and huge corporations alike, with new entrepreneurs and investors scared from the market as the valleys of unemployment and new spending hit historic lows. Angel investors were hesitant to release investment funds, bank loans were basically unavailable, and risk preferences were nowhere to be seen.
There are economic signs that Michigan is beginning to turn around. To move forward we must now have the courage and fortitude to work together to fuel the sputtering motor of Michigan?s economy. We will achieve this through a synergistic approach involving educating new entrepreneurs, encouraging the flow of ideas, utilizing charter members as purveyors of wisdom and guidance, and having our organization fight in bigger arenas.
TiECon 2010 was a great way to end the year and begin the transition and transformation process of TiE Detroit in 2011. For the last few years, the past Presidents? hard work and capability made TiECon Midwest the shining capstone that it is. We know that this would not have been achieved without great support of our team and all the volunteers.
Beyond the change in leadership, we envision a multi-tiered approach to growing the organization.
? Our Number one priority is focusing on TALENT
o Growing talent, encouraging talent, giving talented persons the opportunity to succeed, will be the unifying theme of TiE Detroit in 2011.
? Growing the ranks of our Charter Members
? Have a more robust Business Plan Competition
? Strengthen our partnerships with other similar organizations
? Bringing in more volunteers centered around TiE?s ability to foster talent and entrepreneurship at the grass-roots level.
These changes will require support, thought, and the commitment of each member. As a former TiE Supporter and Keynote Speaker, Governor Rick Snyder put this call to action best, ?You can’t sit back on your heels; you have to go out and earn your business every day.”
Now, I ask you to take part in the process ? Get involved, earn your business, share your opinions, start new ventures, and be a leader. TiE Detroit is committed to support the cause in every possible way. Let?s start this journey together.
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