2. The Panelists
Rep. Darrell Issa
(R-CA)
U.S. House of
Representatives
Rep. Jared Polis
(D-CO)
U.S. House of
Representatives
Donna Harris
1776
Cofounder
3. “Entrepreneurs embody the promise of America: the belief that
if you have a good idea and are willing to work hard and see it
through, you can succeed in this country.”
President Barack Obama
January 31, 2011
4. To bolster our startup communities, strong collaboration is required for
success. Policymakers at the local, state, and federal level can be a powerful
partner for advancing startup ecosystems. One of the major problems is
that a gap exists between the two. Policymakers aren't always aware of the
startups in their area, and the economic impacts startups can bring.
Likewise, startups don't always think to engage policymakers to bring
awareness to their endeavors. The goal of this panel is to discuss how the
two can work together to bridge the divide, and build thriving communities
together.
The Discussion
5. 1. If you're an entrepreneur, what is the most effective way to educate
policymakers on startup ecosystems?
2. Which communities have developed successful engagements, and how did
the policymakers and entrepreneurs work together to achieve the common
goal?
3. Why should policymakers focus their energy on supporting high-growth
startups?
4. Can policymakers address the needs of entrepreneurs only through
legislation?
5. What is the the most important asset that each brings to the partnerships?
Key Questions
