Earlier this week I was fortunate to have the incredible experience of watching the solar eclipse with my family and close friends. This cosmic performance, where the moon momentarily obscures the sun, offers more than just a visual marvel. It made me think about our work creating entrepreneurial ecosystems and how we all approach entrepreneurship-led economic development.
Just as a solar eclipse requires precise alignment of celestial bodies, nurturing an entrepreneurial ecosystem demands a delicate balance of complex community components to be brought together to make the magic happen.
Convergence of Forces
Much like the alignment of the sun, moon, and earth, an entrepreneurial community thrives on the convergence of multiple forces (both seen and unseen). These often include government policies, educational institutions, capital availability, startups themselves, corporate engagement, resource providers, and community culture. Just as the moon aligns perfectly to cast its shadow on Earth, when these diverse community forces are recognized and brought into alignment, the resulting environment can transform a community’s reception for entrepreneurship.
Power of Collaboration
During a solar eclipse, the moon and sun, though vastly different in size and structure, execute their perfect dance across the sky. Similarly, in an effective entrepreneurial ecosystem, collaboration and coordination among stakeholders is paramount. The most dynamic entrepreneurial communities I have experienced are those rich in such coordination and resulting collaboration.
Cycles of Innovation
Perhaps my favorite part about the eclipse happened right before it was over; a bright diamond emerged from the ring around the moon. That diamond not only signified the end of the eclipse, but a beautiful new beginning. Local ecosystems experience periods of growth, consolidation, and occasionally, disruption. Embracing these cycles allows for the renewal and evolution necessary for sustained innovation and community growth.
Patience and Celebration
I forgot how long it takes for the moon to travel across the sun once the process starts, never mind the fact that solar eclipses only occur every two or three years. Similarly, the results of the work we do in entrepreneurship-led economic development often takes years to materialize. It’s important to maintain patience but stay persistent in doing the work.
Like the alignment of the sun, moon and earth every two or three years, you too should make time to celebrate how far your community has come.
