In a land full of individuality, it is not uncommon to stumble upon small, family-owned or self-owned businesses. From hole-in-the wall coffee shops to small bookshops to other places that provide food, clothing and other amenities, entrepreneurs are greatly appreciated. This past week, entrepreneurs from all over the world were celebrated because of Global Entrepreneurship Week, which took place Nov. 13-19.
Global Entrepreneurship Week is a celebration for all entrepreneurs. “During this week, people from various countries worldwide come together through local, national, and global events to create solutions for worldwide economic growth,” according to nationaltoday.com.
For those unfamiliar with the term, an entrepreneur is someone who starts and owns their own business, and there are many entrepreneurs to support in Orange City.
One of the more recent entrepreneur sites in Orange City is Kweken Co., a locally owned coffee shop that opened its doors just a few months ago. “ Kweken Co. was dreamt up by partners McKenzie & Michael Kuiken, who loved the idea of bringing people together in a beautiful space to share a great idea and an awesome cup of coffee,” according to the Kweken Co. website. “After living in the Pacific Northwest for a handful of years, these Orange City natives moved back with the goal of making an impact and helping to spur fresh energy in our small but growing town.”
In the same vein, Brad’s Bakery Bistro, formerly Brad’s Breads and Bakery, is another lovely coffee shop that college students and Orange City locals like to support. “That community-centric model is core to Brad’s Breads today. We bake and sell only in Sioux County, Iowa, … often giving loaves to newcomers and those in need,” according to bradsbakerybistro.com. “We are also intentional about being present with our community.”
Coffee shops are not the only entrepreneurial business in Orange City. For people’s fried or grilled food needs, The Roadhouse is a locally owned restaurant located on Holland Plaza. “Locally owned and operated, The Roadhouse prides itself on offering its customers an amazing dining experience,” according to The Roadhouse website. “Our mission is to create the best food and provide exceptional service that will leave guests feeling satisfied and ready to come back for more.”
There may be many more sites in Orange City that were not covered, but it is important to show all entrepreneurs your support.
Entrepreneurship is not just a flashy way to make money with your passion, it is also good for the economy. “Innovation and entrepreneurship undeniably contribute to economic growth, making them a particular area of interest for economists and policymakers worldwide,” according to investopedia.com.
People decide to become entrepreneurs due to the freedom of “being your own boss,” according to businessnewsdaily.com. Other reasons for desiring to become an entrepreneur include creative freedom. “Creativity and innovation are crucial to the entrepreneurial process,” according to entrepreneursdata.com. “They are important characteristics that propel entrepreneurs to create fresh concepts, goods and services, as well as come up with inventive solutions to market demands. Businesses that do not innovate run the trouble of losing a highly competitive market.”
Northwestern has opportunities for students to talk about entrepreneurship, and NW even has an entrepreneurship minor in the business department.
