The blog

Field writing, by the team doing the work.

Reflections, strategy notes, and practical pieces from SourceLink practitioners.

Blog Updates & Announcements

Rob Williams and Mark Burdette earn the International Economic Development Council Entrepreneurship Development Professional (EDP) Credential

Kansas City, MO – November 6, 2023 – SourceLink℠ is pleased to offer congratulations to all the International Development Council’s (IEDC) 2023 Entrepreneurship Development Professional (EDP) credential recipients, including SourceLink’s...

SourceLink Support Nov 08, 2023
Blog Economic Development

SourceLink Affiliate Quarterly Conversation – September 2023

SourceLink Continues to Grow, Adding New Staff and Affiliates  Welcome to our new SourceLink staff member, Solomon Lee. Solomon will serve as a project manager and brings considerable expertise to...

Pola Firestone Oct 24, 2023
Blog Research & Impact

Understanding Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Measurement Part 1: Why Measurement is Important

This four-part series addresses why tracking and measuring the activity of your entrepreneurial ecosystem is crucial to its long-term sustainability and the economic success of your community.   Part 1: Why...

Rob Williams Oct 23, 2023
Blog Ecosystem Building

SourceLink Affiliate Quarterly Conversation - June 2023

SourceLink Network News Rob kicked off our June SourceLink Affiliate Quarterly Conversation with exciting news from our network affiliates. NWI BizHub in Northwest Indiana received a grant from the Regional...

Pola Firestone Jul 21, 2023
Blog Entrepreneurship

Unveiling the Mysteries of AI: Part 1 – Transforming Entrepreneurs

Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing entrepreneurship and economic development. We're going to show how AI-powered tools are empowering go-getters and community-builders to create thriving networks and drive economic impact like never...

Rob Williams Jun 28, 2023
Blog Economic Development

Celebrating Economic Development Week 2023

Throughout the course of American history, the meaning and purpose of the phrase ‘economic development’ has changed and evolved. The California Association for Local Economic Development describes our current use...

Rob Williams May 08, 2023
Blog Economic Development

Celebrating Small Business Week: How to Champion Entrepreneurs Today and All Yearlong

In honor of National Small Business Week, we’re celebrating the unique and enterprising spirit of entrepreneurs who contribute to our communities. Created by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) over...

Dana Masters Apr 23, 2023
Blog Ecosystem Building

Empowering Women Entrepreneurs Through Connections, Resources & Support

Did you know that 42% of U.S. companies are owned by women? With nearly 13 million women-led businesses, they are making their mark on the entrepreneurial scene, claiming ownership of...

Dara Macan Apr 14, 2023
Blog Ecosystem Building

Celebrating Our Partners in Entrepreneurship Support: The Small Business Development Center

When it comes to supporting entrepreneurs at any stage in their business journey, the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) has been a critical resource since 1980. Since its inception, the...

Dana Masters Mar 23, 2023
Blog Network news

SourceLink℠ Affiliate Quarterly Conversation – March 2023

Welcome to our newest affiliates! Rob kicked off our recent SourceLink℠ Affiliate Quarterly Conversation welcoming our newest affiliates to the network. They include: Louisiana Business Hub launched March 15 and...

Pola Firestone Mar 10, 2023
Blog Entrepreneurship

Let’s Talk: Why Broadband is Critical Infrastructure for Entrepreneurship-Led Economic Development

Access to affordable high-speed broadband is increasingly a top priority for economic and community development leaders. According to national research from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Technology Engagement Center, a...

Rob Williams Feb 17, 2023
Blog Entrepreneurship

How America’s Public Libraries Nurture Entrepreneurship

Libraries are the unsung heroes of entrepreneurship, offering essential resources and programs to equip innovators and business leaders with the tools they need to succeed. These public learning institutions transform...

Pola Firestone Feb 09, 2023