Entrepreneurs Thrive Here

Global Entrepreneurship Week 2026
November 16 - 20

Together We Build

Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW) spans across 180 countries during the week of November 16 - 20, 2026. With a goal of deepening collaboration, the Southern Indiana area will host the second year of events and programs to connect entrepreneurs, investors, researchers, policymakers, and resources.

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GEW 2026 Agenda

Tuesday, November 17 at 5:30pm

Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition & Business Transition Summit

In celebration of Global Entrepreneurship Week, this summit brings together aspiring entrepreneurs, business owners, and community leaders to explore one of today’s most practical paths to business ownership, acquiring and/or transitioning existing businesses.

Discover how to step into established companies, preserve local legacies, and create new opportunities for growth. Through expert insights, real-world stories, and meaningful connections, attendees will gain a clearer understanding of how to navigate business transitions, from succession planning to acquisition strategies.

This event will be held in the IU Southeast Hoosier Room (inside of University Center North) and is FREE to attend. The event will run 5:30pm-7:30pm.

For questions or additional info, please contact Dr. Aycan Kara at karaa@iu.edu

Led by: Dr. Ayca Kara, Mike Fulkerson, Brigid Morrisey, Nicole Driscoll

Wednesday, November 18 at 6pm

The Next BIG Thing Pitch Competition

Join us for an exciting evening of innovation, inspiration, and networking as the brightest minds in entrepreneurship come together to showcase their groundbreaking ideas and compete for $10,000 (and growing) in seed capital.

This event will be held in the IU Southeast Hoosier Room (inside of University Center North) and is FREE to attend. A food buffet and non-alcoholic beverages are included with your admission. The event will take place from 6:00pm-8:30pm.

Led by: Dr. Aycan Kara, Mike Fulkerson, Kyleigh Hublar, Nicole Driscoll, Aaron Williams

Thursday, November 19

Student Entrepreneur Resource Fair

Are you a local student interested in entrepreneurship? Are you dreaming of starting your own business one day? This event aims to connect high school students with local entrepreneurs and learn about the valuable resources, support, and opportunities to foster growth and innovation that exist within our community.

Led by: John Riley, Mike Fulkerson