Employees, colleagues, advisors and friends are the lifeline of the entrepreneurial spirit. Whether in business for two years or twenty years, the successful entrepreneur can readily recall the person who gave them encouragement in a difficult time, helped them to solve a problem or formulate an idea, or simply listened when they needed to talk. The prairies of North Dakota were settled and communities were developed with the cooperative and collaborative interaction of entrepreneurial spirit. Successful entrepreneurs know that they don't have all the answers and are willing to seek out those who can help them. In turn, the entrepreneurial spirit is a reciprocal one.
Successful entrepreneurs are willing to give and share so that others can achieve their dreams.
This series and the companion television production, Entrepreneurs North Dakota, has been an example of a sort of state-wide, community effort. Entrepreneurs, advisors and experts have willing shared their insights, ideas, successes and failures, so that others may learn and be inspired to develop their dreams and visions into profitable business ventures. This giving and sharing is an important asset to the continued growth of North Dakota business. The true entrepreneurial spirit cannot be bought or packaged. Skills for starting and running a business can be taught and learned, however, the entrepreneurial spirit can only be transferred from one to another through a lifeline of enthusiasm and inspiration.