Issue link: http://endeavor.uberflip.com/i/317370
Endeavor is the only non-profit organization that focuses on the scale-up stage of High-Impact Entrepreneurs in the ecosystem. In fact, Endeavor works with all the stakeholders in the ecosystem to identify and support High-Impact Entrepreneurs. SUPPORT SYSTEMS ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN LEBANON: PERCEPTIONS AND REALITIES IN RECENT YEARS, THE LEBANESE ENTREPRENEURIAL SCENE SAW A MUSHROOMING IN THE NUMBER OF ORGANIZATIONS THAT SUPPORT ENTREPRENEURS AND PROMOTE ENTREPRENEURSHIP. Facilitators, incubators and accelerators all contribute to a more dynamic and connected entrepreneurial ecosystem. These organizations help entrepreneurs in different ways. Through mentorship, they give entrepreneurs the opportunity to get sound advice and guidance from experienced business leaders. They also use networking to connect entrepreneurs with key players in the ecosystem including potential investors. Facilitators and incubators such as Bader, AltCity and Berytech, organize events and trainings for the start-up community and promote entrepreneurship in universities. Organizations such as the MIT Enterprise Forum help identify outstanding entrepreneurs through business plan competitions. Incubators and accelerators often give new entrepreneurs access to shared infrastructure, thus lowering their initial start-up costs. They also provide start-ups with financial assistance. The private sector has also played a role in fostering entrepreneurship. One example of a private initiative is the Beirut Digital District (BDD), which was initiated and facilitated by the Ministry of Telecommunications to create an all-inclusive zone for companies in the ICT sector. By creating synergies, BDD will become a potent hub for the digital industry in Lebanon and the region. QUOTED "We built a trusted, long- term relationship with our Endeavor mentors who have helped us greatly in expanding our network, solidifying our business structure, building our vision, and evolving as a company. As entrepreneurs, we are very grateful to be guided by their constructive insight and experience, and are eager to give back to Endeavor to help the next generation of entrepreneurs." Marc Dfouni, Managing Partner and CEO, Eastline Marketing Endeavor Entrepreneur 25