This morning, the City of Roanoke and the Department of Business Assistance are hosting an entrepreneurship fair at the Roanoke Civic Center Exhibit Hall. Click here for a video interview. Over 150 people registered for the event to learn more about how they can expand their current small business or how they can create their own.

Many young adults have registered for the event to hear our speaker Fahad Hassan who is a 22 year old, 2-time entrepreneur who began doing software development internships at the age of 15. His first business was in his parents basement at the age of 17 when he received a $250,000 contract.

We need to tell stories like these on a more frequent basis to give others an example to follow so that a more fertile ground for entrepreneurs can be established. Creating a culture that celebrates all people to start their own venture is needed. The benefits to the local economy have been well documented. It starts with each individual starting small and building on each successful step.

Hopefully, today’s fair will be another step forward.