In a post-recession economy, entrepreneurship has become a key pillar of economic growth and job creation. Recognising the importance of this sector, the LSE Alumni Association welcomes a new Special Interest Group that celebrates and fosters entrepreneurship among LSE alumni, the LSE Alumni Entrepreneurs Group.

Connecting resources
Led by Marta Costas, also a member of the LSE Alumni Association Communications Committee, LSE Alumni Entrepreneurs aims to leverage and connect the vast network of LSE resources and activities that are relevant to entrepreneurs. 'The LSE already has many resources in place to assist entrepreneurs, but these are not always easily accessible', Marta notes. 'With this initiative we seek to connect with established platforms, such as Venture@LSE, to provide a comprehensive list of resources for entrepreneurs.'

Speed Mentoring for Startups
The Group feeds on the success of past initiatives such as LSE-Inc, a student business incubator developed in 2010 under the LSE Student Union, which successfully developed a new format of 'speed mentoring' sessions for start ups. With guidance from Dr Linda Hickman, visiting Fellow at he LSE Management Department, the group will provide support to start ups who would like to receive impartial advise on financial, legal, marketing and technology issues.

A Global Network of Business Leaders
Based in a world-wide centre for business and investment, the LSE creates world-class business leaders across every sector and discipline. The school’s diversity is one of its most distinctive features, a trait that stimulates academic debate and makes the LSE a truly international brand. This diversity is a premium asset for entrepreneurs, providing access to a global network of first-class business contacts key for understanding new markets, developing innovative products or validating growth strategies across a range of sectors.

Through virtual platforms LSE Alumni Entrepreneurs will reach out to alumni in a range of countries, creating a global platform of support that provides value added for entrepreneurs regardless of their business sector or geographical location.

Get involved
If you are considering starting your own company, or you are an established entrepreneur and would like to connect with fellow alumni, get in touch at www.lsealumnientrepreneurs.org