Name: Leslie Blair
Phone: 405-815-5320

Feb. 26, 2008 -- Lieutenant Governor Jari Askins and Oklahoma’s Secretary of Commerce and Tourism Natalie Shirley were on hand for festivities celebrating Entrepreneurship Day in Oklahoma on Tuesday, Feb. 26 at the Oklahoma State Capitol.

According to the Kauffman Foundation, one of the nation’s leading advocates for and research entities on entrepreneurship, Oklahoma recently ranked 4th in the nation in terms of high entrepreneurial activity.  There is no question that entrepreneurship has come into its own as a viable economic development strategy. 

"The state recognizes the sense of urgency and importance in creating a culture of entrepreneurship in Oklahoma," says Lt. Governor Jari Askins. "Oklahoma's entrepreneurs will provide the innovation, creativity, and leadership needed to take us successfully into our next 100 years."

“Entrepreneurs are the future of Oklahoma’s economy,” said Shirley.  “In order to grow Oklahoma’s economy and compete in the global marketplace, we must support the development of entrepreneurs in Oklahoma.”

The 2nd Century Entrepreneurship Center located within Oklahoma Commerce, provides an opportunity to improve and increase Oklahoma’s efforts of supporting entrepreneurs.  For more information about the 2nd Century Entrepreneurship Center, visit www.OKStartUp.com.

Shelli Todd was recently named Director of the 2nd Century Entrepreneurship Center.  Todd’s responsibilities will include working with the statewide network of entrepreneurship programs and services, helping build capacity for technology-based entrepreneurs, and advocating for entrepreneurship education. 

Oklahoma Commerce has a strong history of supporting entrepreneurs. There are extensive resources at www.OKcommerce.gov, including the business licensing database and Capital Review, a resource on financing for small businesses.  The Website also provides business planning resources and frequently asked questions regarding starting a business.  Commerce is also responsible for the certification of business incubators and has an extensive network of statewide partners that serve entrepreneurs.

For more information about the 2nd Century Entrepreneurship Center, contact Shelli Todd at (405) 815-5146 or at Shelli_Todd@OKcommerce.gov.