As Global Entrepreneurship Week (#GEW2024) unfolds, Startup Huddle Organizers are spotlighting entrepreneurs from diverse and often underrepresented groups, including women, non-binary entrepreneurs, and youth. The Global Entrepreneurship Network’s (GEN) Startup Huddle program is amplifying the voices of those traditionally less represented in the startup world, driving an inclusive and collaborative approach to building resilient startup ecosystems.
Since its launch in 2018, Startup Huddle has become a vital support network for founders. Its model is simple but effective: local entrepreneurs present their businesses to the community, gaining valuable feedback, support, and resources. From Barbados to Edinburgh and Lusikisiki to Tijuana, these events foster connections that empower entrepreneurs to break through challenges with the collective insight of the crowd.
Supporting Women and Non-Binary Entrepreneurs
During #GEW2024, Startup Huddle chapters are creating spaces for women and non-binary entrepreneurs to connect, present their ventures, and tackle the unique challenges they face. In Edinburgh, for example, Startup Huddle organizer Kendra Byers hosts monthly sessions specifically for women and non-binary founders, offering a supportive environment for participants to discuss their challenges and find allies within their entrepreneurial journeys.
“Our main goal is to create a safe, collaborative space where women and non-binary entrepreneurs can address real-time challenges, share resources, and receive actionable advice. Each huddle is designed to foster open dialogue, providing tailored support to help participants build their businesses with confidence.” says Kendra Byers.
Inspiring Youth to Lead the Future of Entrepreneurship
The next generation of entrepreneurs is crucial to creating a sustainable and prosperous global economy. In South Africa, chapters in Lusikisiki and Johannesburg are making strides to engage young founders, particularly those in underserved communities, through mentorship and skill-building programs focused on digital transformation. These efforts aim to equip youth with the tools they need to become leaders who can shape their local economies and beyond.
“Youth-led startups bring fresh ideas and enthusiasm. When given the right tools and support, these young entrepreneurs can go from tackling local problems to making global impacts,” says Nobuntu Tintelo, Startup Huddle Organizer in Lusikisiki. “That’s what we’re working to make possible.”
In Edmonton, Canada, another chapter uplifts young entrepreneurs, hosting pitch events and workshops that provide mentorship, skills training, and networking opportunities in addition to their Startup Huddle sessions. These efforts highlight Startup Huddle’s commitment to inclusivity and the belief that diverse perspectives drive innovation.
Key Events Highlighting Diverse Founders Worldwide
Here are a few of the Startup Huddle chapters celebrating underrepresented groups during #GEW2024:
- Startup Huddle Edinburgh (Women and Non-Binary Founders)
- Startup Huddle Lusikisiki (Youth and Women Entrepreneurs in Rural Communities)
- Startup Huddle Barbados (Early-Stage Youth Entrepreneurs)
- Startup Huddle Moncton (Early-Stage Female Founders)
With over 60 active chapters, Startup Huddle continues to expand its reach and impact. In 2024 alone, 15 new chapters have launched, further strengthening resilient and inclusive ecosystems for entrepreneurs from all backgrounds.
Global Mentor for Startup Huddle and founder of SLUDTERA Inc., Michelle Samuel, is hosting a series of dynamic events to inspire and empower entrepreneurs across various stages of their journey. These events include:
- 50+ Women Entrepreneur Panel: Seasoned female entrepreneurs share their success stories.
- Entrepreneurship Fail Forward Night: Celebrating resilience through storytelling about overcoming setbacks.
- Writers are Entrepreneurs Too!: Exploring the business side of writing.
- The Anita James Social Impact Awards: Recognizing impactful ventures in key sectors.
- Digital Tools for Startups: In collaboration with Blu Media Marketing, this event highlights tools for relationship-building.
- Alumni Entrepreneur Panel: Featuring insights from local and diaspora entrepreneurs.
- Workshop on Business Growth Strategies: In partnership with the U.S. Embassy of Barbados, providing guidance on expanding businesses internationally.
- The Next Big Inventor: A youth innovation day at Soufriere Comprehensive Secondary School, with mentorship and opportunities for top performers.
“I believe entrepreneurship is a transformative force that empowers individuals to achieve economic independence and create meaningful change,” says Michelle Samuel. “The sessions I’ve curated reflect a commitment to fostering diverse aspects of entrepreneurship, from resilience in the face of failure to recognizing writers as entrepreneurs. This year’s programming is designed to meet the local needs in St. Lucia while celebrating GEW 2024.”
Additional Startup Huddle Chapters Engaging in GEW Activities Include:
- Startup Huddle Abuja
- Startup Huddle Antigua + Barbuda
- Startup Huddle Asunción
- Startup Huddle Amman
- Startup Huddle Barbados
- Startup Huddle Barranquilla
- Startup Huddle Chittagong
- Startup Huddle Conakry
- Startup Huddle Douala
- Startup Huddle Durban
- Startup Huddle Edmonton
- Startup Huddle Georgetown
- Startup Huddle Johannesburg
- Startup Huddle Lagos
- Startup Huddle Lahore
- Startup Huddle Maseru
- Startup Huddle Oldham
- Startup Huddle Sandton
- Startup Huddle Santa Cruz
- Startup Huddle St. Lucia
- Startup Huddle Suzhou
- Startup Huddle Tijuana
- Startup Huddle Windhoek
Join the Movement
To find a Startup Huddle chapter near you or participate in #GEW2024 activities, visit www.startuphuddle.co and gew.co to join the movement supporting entrepreneurs from all walks of life.