The word “entrepreneur” has its origins in the French language. It is derived from the word entreprendre, which means “to undertake.” Entrepreneurs are, indeed, people who undertake. They are the intrepid minds that generate new business ideas and undertake the task of implementing them.

Being a successful entrepreneur takes creativity, business acumen, and perhaps most importantly, vision. The risks of starting a new venture may be daunting, but if successful, the rewards can be limitless.

Richard Branson, Bill Gates, Henry Ford and Estee Lauder are all glowing examples of what entrepreneurs can accomplish with the correct mix of vision, resolve and funding. The benefits far exceed just personal gain. Their contributions have led to economic growth by way of technological innovations, new product development and job creation.

It is the recognition of this impact and the desire to encourage future economic growth which has lead the Chenango County Board of Supervisors, at the behest of Brower Communications and Commerce Chenango, to declare Sept. 22-27 as Entrepreneurship Week.

“The critical role entrepreneurs have played in advancing the national economy make it vital to encourage young people from all academic backgrounds and all walks of life to explore their entrepreneurial potential,” read the Board of Supervisors’ proclamation issued in August.