...These streetcars in Kansas City are innovative modes of transportation that are helping the residents and visitors alike, commute around with ease of access. It's part of my experience at the ESHIP Summit 19, and this drives innovation in the Kansas City and beyond. Andrew Benson Greene
And I found my tribe
Arriving in Kansas City (KC) on May 20th, 2019, for the Kauffman Foundation ESHIP summit, I found myself amidst a torrential downpour, the weather adding a touch of drama to the night. Eager to reach the Holiday Inn Hotel in downtown Kansas City, graciously arranged by the Linux Foundation, I hesitated at the intersection, weighing the options of Uber versus a traditional taxi.
It was then that a fellow traveler, a local of KC, pointed out a more convenient mode of transportation—the Streetcar—mere minutes away from our location. As I boarded, memories of Tennessee Williams' masterpiece, "A Streetcar Named Desire," flooded back to me. I recalled studying the emotionally charged narrative of Blanche DuBois during my undergraduate years as an English Major at Fourah Bay College, University of Sierra Leone.
Yet, unlike the tumultuous personal journey depicted in Williams' play, the Kansas City Streetcars offered a stark contrast. They were not emblematic of personal loss, tragedy, or the complexities of desire portrayed in Blanche's tumultuous life. Instead, they represented progress, convenience, and the spirit of innovation propelling Kansas City forward.
The streetcars in Kansas City serve as vital arteries of mobility, connecting people to resources, job opportunities, and markets. They are not merely vehicles; they are catalysts for economic growth, driving development, increasing property values, attracting businesses and residents, and reshaping the very identity of Kansas City. This inclusive mode of transportation benefits all, offering free access along main routes—a visionary concept reflective of the Kauffman Foundation's mission to enrich communities and foster progress.
In the enduring legacy of Ewing Kauffman, his Foundation remains steadfast in its commitment to enhancing civic pride and propelling Kansas City onto the global stage. Through investments in education, entrepreneurship, and civic initiatives, the Foundation embodies Kauffman's vision for a thriving, dynamic city. The innovative transportation infrastructure stands as a testament to Kauffman's spirit of exploration, addressing transportation challenges with forward-thinking solutions.
Below is a Light rail stop and the rail is called “Street Car’. The sign of ‘Kauffman’ is inscribed at this stop and in so many places, as sign of how much the city appreciated one of their best brains. Named after the renowned and well-respected entrepreneur here in Kansas city (Kauffman), I can see the signs of Kauffman Arts Center, Innovation Centers, Kaufmann Stadium, etc. The program ESHIP is also one of the flagships of the Kauffman Foundation
Like countless residents of Kansas City, I marveled at the newfound accessibility facilitated by the Streetcar. From the vibrant River Market in the north to the iconic landmarks of Union Station and Crown Center in the south, the Streetcar seamlessly connected me with downtown neighborhoods, offering a window into the city's eclectic offerings. What truly captivated me was the opportunity it provided to explore local shops, discover couture and antiques, and immerse myself in Kansas City's rich cultural tapestry.
For many locals, the Streetcar represents more than just a mode of transportation—it's a lifeline, easing the daily commute between work and home with its soothing, free service. Indeed, it serves as a testament to the transformative power of innovation and uncommon ideas, making life a little bit brighter for everyone it touches.
As a visitor, the Streetcar became my trusted guide, effortlessly whisking me from main streets to the conference venue and granting me glimpses into the city's vibrant arts scene. From art galleries to concerts, plays to culinary delights, the Streetcar provided a gateway to the heart and soul of Kansas City, enriching my experience with every stop along its route.
My inaugural attendance at the ESHIP summit became a reality thanks to the generous financial backing from the Linux Foundation and the invaluable scholarship support extended by the Kauffman Foundation. ESHIP has emerged as a beacon of hope for aspiring entrepreneurs, providing them with the confidence and resources needed to navigate the often daunting journey towards productivity and success.
The structured programs offered by ESHIP are designed to empower entrepreneurs by aligning them with seven overarching goals. These goals serve as a roadmap, challenging and inspiring individuals to push the boundaries of possibility within the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
What truly sets the ESHIP summit apart is the collective energy it fosters—a palpable force that ignites positive action and propels the trajectory of innovation and entrepreneurship forward. Amidst this convergence of minds and ideas, new pathways are forged, and the seeds of transformative change are sown, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of entrepreneurship
- Inclusive field
- Collaborative Culture
- Shared Vision
- Connected Networks
- Practical Metrics and Methods
- Universal Support
- Sustainable work.
The summit also encouraged diversity and gender participation and the opportunity to bring Mayors to interact with the changemakers and entrepreneurs is a novelty and a positive interconnection. This collaboration has far-reaching impact in the community, allowing for both sides to appreciate the various lenses in which they view problems in the community and help proffer solutions.
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| Inspired by the ESHIP Summit, I am eager to create a start-up that connects generations of entrepreneurs using open source software in my community in Maryland and Baltimore. |
The profound impact of the ESHIP Summit has ignited within me a fervent desire to spearhead a startup initiative that leverages open-source software to bridge generational divides among entrepreneurs in my community, both in Maryland and Baltimore. Additionally, I am compelled to lend support to the entrepreneurial ecosystem in my homeland, Sierra Leone, by exploring the establishment of pioneering innovation centers. These centers will serve as incubators for success, particularly in communities grappling with the enduring challenges wrought by conflict, disease, and social adversity.
During the summit, Andy Stoll's poignant remarks resonated deeply with me. He emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in nurturing vibrant and inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystems within our communities. His insight into the intersection of economic and community development underscored the necessity of synergy between top-down and bottom-up approaches. Andy's call for empathy and understanding amidst diverse perspectives highlighted the pivotal role of effective communication in bridging gaps and fostering meaningful collaboration.
Furthermore, Andy's reference to the Ecosystem playbook elucidated the guiding principles essential for cultivating interdependence and fostering a culture of collaboration. These principles, rooted in the declaration of independence crafted during the inaugural ESHIP Summit, serve as a compass for navigating the complexities of ecosystem building.
Indeed, the overarching goal is to create an evolving model of economic development that embraces inclusivity and empowers individuals from all walks of life to pursue their entrepreneurial aspirations. Andy's vision of a community-driven approach to ecosystem building resonated deeply with me, reinforcing the notion that entrepreneurship is not merely a solitary endeavor but a collective effort propelled by the strength of community support.
The dedication of individuals like Christine Lai and Cecilia Wessinger, highlighted by Andy, exemplifies the transformative power of community engagement. Their tireless efforts in supporting ecosystem builders and fostering collaboration underscore the importance of collective action in driving meaningful change. As Cecilia eloquently articulated, the sense of belonging fostered by the ESHIP community transcends mere affiliation—it embodies a shared commitment to a greater cause.
In essence, the journey towards building robust entrepreneurial ecosystems is one defined by collaboration, empathy, and unwavering dedication. It is through collective efforts and a shared sense of purpose that we can pave the way for a more inclusive and prosperous future for all.
Cecilia says her work and her colleague Christine’s is focuses on helping to facilitate collaboration, support the community infrastructure, and her focus is the Ecosystem building practitioners. ‘You, and all your colleagues who do thankless things to make the work of ecosystem building possible'. She said you are part traffic-controller, part switch-board operator.
She felt that the grassroot ecosystem building efforts are best when you have a set kind of framework, it needs to be transparent, it needs to be flexible and needs to be viable. "We are here to align, connect, engage and empower you". As a consultant from the Kauffman foundation she tries to bring a passion for inclusion and diversity into the mix especially the sense of belonging. She says ‘when we Ecosystem builders foster community; we create an environment where we can all thrive. We interconnect and infuse a collaborative culture and a more sense of abundance where we all prosper. Robust communities will be purposeful and a greater sense of belonging that enriches all in different ways'.
And that means all sustainable mark, more growth and more opportunity for all of you. Just like one million corps is better because of the collective brain power in this room. Now I know that I am more knowledgeable because of you, I am better connected because of your networks, and I have more impact because of everyone here”.
The opening night of reception on Tuesday, May 21st, was a combination of great conversation, fun night, lively music, and great networking opportunities. Kansas City welcomed us to a great variety of food, great scenery and folks who are recharging their enthusiasm every single day to help change the world through entrepreneurship and building the much-needed ecosystem to help give opportunities to the thinkers and problem solvers.
At the Kauffman Foundation ESHIP Summit, the focus wasn't solely on strategizing ways to navigate the entrepreneurial landscape; there was ample room for enjoyment and celebration. Music, far from being merely entertainment, was celebrated as a multifaceted art form that resonated deeply with the diverse talents of the attendees. Artists like the LA-based Landlights electrified the stage with their soulful performances, infusing the summit with joy and entertainment for all attendees and ecosystem builders alike.
The opening reception on Tuesday, May 21st, was a vibrant blend of engaging conversation, lively music, and invaluable networking opportunities. Kansas City's warm hospitality greeted us with a plethora of culinary delights, picturesque scenery, and individuals brimming with enthusiasm to effect positive change through entrepreneurship and ecosystem building.
The opening night of reception on Tuesday, May 21st, was a combination of great conversation, fun night, lively music, and great networking opportunities. Kansas City welcomed us to a great variety of food, great scenery and folks who are recharging their enthusiasm every single day to help change the world through entrepreneurship and building the much-needed ecosystem to help give opportunities to the thinkers and problem solvers.
Exploring the streets of Kansas City during my downtime, I found myself captivated by its beauty, rich artistic culture, and spirit of innovation. The tranquil streets bustled with activity as tourists and visitors flocked to experience the city's vibrant energy, especially along "Main Street," a bustling thoroughfare that serves as the nexus of downtown Kansas City, connecting visitors to a myriad of attractions and events.
During the event, I had the privilege to share my journey from the non-profit sector into the realm of business startups, unveiling my vision for innovation and social impact. I introduced attendees to my latest venture, Coinfidence, and engaged in conversations about integrating open-source software into our platform to empower low-income and young entrepreneurs.
My vision for Coinfidence revolves around leveraging open-source technology to foster opportunities for small businesses and entrepreneurs, particularly in underserved communities like Baltimore. By democratizing access to resources and facilitating mentorship through innovative platforms, we aim to catalyze economic empowerment and self-esteem among aspiring entrepreneurs.
Through the power of open source, Coinfidence seeks to drive tangible change in Baltimore and beyond, creating avenues for investment and job creation, especially for communities marginalized by poverty and systemic inequalities. By harnessing the collaborative potential of open-source software, we aspire to challenge the status quo and empower individuals of color and low-income youth to chart their own paths to success.
At the event, I was inspired by the networking opportunities and the potential synergies offered by open-source solutions. Coinfidence is poised to harness these connections to not only provide employment opportunities but also to cultivate a new generation of entrepreneurs who will drive positive change in their communities. My uncommon ideas, rooted in social impact and technological innovation, reflect a steadfast commitment to improving the economic well-being of Baltimore's residents and beyond.
James Baldwin — ‘The world is before you, and you need not take it or leave it as it was when you came in.'
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