Indiana Economic Development Corporation sponsors global gathering to showcase Hoosier Innovation
In recognition of its rising entrepreneurial ecosystem, The Global Entrepreneurship Network (GEN) will hold the Global Entrepreneurship Congress 2025 (GEC) in Indiana for the first time. The global organization operates entrepreneurial projects and programs in 200 countries, selecting Indianapolis to be the second U.S. location to host its annual convention, since its inaugural event in 2009.
Governor Eric J. Holcomb shared his excitement about Indiana being selected as host, while acknowledging the important role that the entrepreneurial ecosystem has, stating, “With the help of Hoosier entrepreneurs, Indiana’s economy is thriving – pushing forward new innovations, attracting top talent, and creating countless opportunities for current and future residents to prosper. Hosting this global convention is a testament to our state’s commitment, past and future, to cultivating a vibrant ecosystem that supports dreamers, innovators, entrepreneurs and thought leaders.”
The selection of Indiana as host for GEC 2025 aligns with the State’s growing list of accomplishments associated with its entrepreneurial ecosystem. GEN and its partners at Startup Genome recognized the State as a top 40 global emerging destination for entrepreneurship. Indianapolis has been named the No. 3 city in the Midwest for startups for the second year in a row.
The event will connect Indiana founders and entrepreneurs to global resources, while showcasing the State’s innovation and the state’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. It will be held June 1st through 5th, 2025, spearheaded by the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC), key ecosystem partners and Indiana-based entrepreneurs.
Founded in 2009 at the Kauffman Foundation in Kansas City, GEC creates opportunities for founders to share new business models and connect with mentors and investors. The gathering also brings together thought leaders who are challenging the status quo, policymakers supporting entrepreneurs and academics who delve into new ways of working and using new sources of data.
GEN, the IEDC and all GEC partners are in high anticipation of the 2025 event that will attract thousands of participants who have a voice in “creating one inclusive global ecosystem by networking, learning and sharing”.
“We are thrilled to bring the Global Entrepreneurship Congress back to the United States for the first time since it started,” said Jonathan Ortmans, founder and president of GEN. “Indiana is home to thriving, resilient and collaborative communities driven by creative and innovative entrepreneurs who are transforming our world.”
