The Global Entrepreneurship Network established Global Entrepreneurship Week in 2008 to inspire individuals—especially young people—to launch their own businesses.

The Pantheon Business & Innovation Center in Vincennes is celebrating the week with various activities.

Knox County officially kicked off the observance on Friday when Mayor Joe Yochum and County Commissioner Kellie Streeter proclaimed this week as Global Entrepreneurship Week.

This year’s theme, “Entrepreneurship is for Everyone,” emphasizes inclusivity and encourages both aspiring and established business owners.

Pantheon CEO Nicole Like highlighted the week’s importance, saying, “Over 200 countries around the world celebrate Global Entrepreneurship Week. It’s especially important here in the United States, where over 80 percent of all new jobs come from new businesses. The more new businesses you have in your community, the more new jobs you have.”

Activities throughout the week include presentations from local business leaders and networking opportunities at the Pantheon and the Elmer Buchta Tech Center in Petersburg.

All events are free and open to the public.

Local Legends Recognition Event is today

Red Talk with Procopio Palazzolo

Events for the week at the Elmer Buchta Tech Center listed below.