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'''Austin, Texas:'''

Ranked the number one American city for new business creation for two years in a row by the Kauffman Foundation, Austin, Texas is one of the strongest emerging entrepreneurship ecosystems in the United States.

'''Austin’s History of Entrepreneurship'''

Unlike some emerging ecosystems, Austin has a long history of innovation entrepreneurship. During the 1970’s and 1980’s, Austin established an ecosystem focused on computer and semiconductor manufacturers. A doubling in student attendance at the University of Texas and efforts by the Chamber of Commerce resulted in IBM locating to Austin in 1967, Texas Instruments in 1969, and Motorola in 1974. As the industry grew, major computer and semiconductor manufacturers banded together and created the Microelectronic Computer Corporation (MCC) in 1982.

'''Entrepreneurship in Austin Now'''

Austin is experiencing yet another entrepreneurship boom. Austin now has the supportive policy structure, mentors, and sector diversification required to finally establish a lasting ecosystem.

'''Venture Capital in Texas and Austin'''

Texas’ venture capital investment has decreased by 19% over the past ten years. In order to maintain a healthy entrepreneurship ecosystem, it is imperative that venture capital investment increases in the coming years.

'''Resources in Austin'''

Austin has a plethora of resources available to entrepreneurs. The annual South by Southwest Festival provides a networking opportunity for entrepreneurs. Additionally, companies are taking advantage of the 100,000 students that graduate each from universities in the greater Austin area. The University of Texas at Austin boasts the Austin Technology Incubator (ATI) under the The IC² Institute, which has raised almost $700 million in investor capital to achieve this goal. Additionally, the Central Texas Angel Network provides capital and mentorship support for entrepreneurs in the Central Texas region.

'''What Starts in Austin can Change the World'''

Austin’s entrepreneurial ecosystem is moving towards national recognition. Dell PC’s, Favor Delivery (backed by Austin’s S3 ventures and an alumni of ATI), and HomeAway are among the services Austin entrepreneurs offer across the nation. In the upcoming years, it is critical that capital investment continues to support new ventures. Austin’s ecosystem has the policy, talent, and mentorship to be successful, but private and public efforts must continue to ensure its success.