The National Entrepreneurship Leaders Network (NELN) unites statewide leaders of Offices of Entrepreneurship and/or similarly tasked agencies that are trailblazing new models of public support for entrepreneurship.

NELN cultivates opportunities for leaders to connect, share, and learn, helping them strengthen their work and drive impact.

Vision

Public entrepreneurship leaders strengthen entrepreneurial opportunity in every community throughout the nation.

Mission

To maximize the effectiveness of public entrepreneurship leaders through peer connections and learning.

Activities

Monthly Meetings

Members participate in virtual meetings to discuss topics relevant to public entrepreneurship leadership, share insights, and explore best practices.

NELN Online Hub

Between monthly meetings, NELN members stay connected through a members-only online community, where they share resources and experiences, post and ask questions, and discuss timely issues.

Annual In-Person Event

The National Entrepreneurship Leaders Network convenes annually to receive training, deepen relationships, and engage in meaningful collaboration.

Leadership

The National Entrepreneurship Leaders Network is operated by Right to Start and guided by two co-chairs:

  • Ben Marchionna, Chief Innovation Ecosystem Officer, Michigan Economic Development Corporation

  • Taylor Overton, Director, Kansas Entrepreneurship and Small Business Office, Kansas Department of Commerce

Membership

Membership consists of two tiers: the Leadership Circle and the Assembly.

  • The Leadership Circle is for senior state officials charged by governors or legislatures with strengthening entrepreneurship, typically leading state Offices of Entrepreneurship or similar agencies. Membership is limited to the principal leader in each state (one per state).

  • The Assembly comprises state government staff working in public entrepreneurship support, often alongside or under Leadership Circle members. Assembly members have access to NELN's online hub and attend select NELN meetings.

Join NELN

The National Entrepreneurship Leaders Network seeks members who want to learn from peers, share their experiences, and who are committed to regular participation in NELN activities and events. To express interest in becoming a member, please complete a short questionnaire. Leaders who meet the qualifications will receive an invitation to join. There is no cost for NELN membership.

Questions?

For more information, contact us at neln@righttostart.org.