This week is the second annual U.S. National Entrepreneurship Week (Feb. 23 – March 1). In 2006, Congress designated the last week in February to be used to recognize America’s entrepreneurs. This year, organizations across the country are taking time during this week to appreciate the outstanding contributions made by entrepreneurs to our country and economy.

“Entrepreneurs bring new, innovative ideas into the marketplace,” said Todd Stottlemyer, president and CEO of the National Federation of Independent Business. “Their efforts continue to create jobs and fuel economic growth. In order for others to continue to take risks by trying their luck at a new business, it’s important that we applaud entrepreneurs for their achievements and encourage America’s youth to pursue their own entrepreneurial endeavors.”

To launch National Entrepreneurship Week 2008, a coalition of entrepreneurship supporters, led by the Small Business Administration, brought the Extreme Entrepreneurship Tour to George Washington University and Howard University Feb. 25. The Extreme Entrepreneurship Tour brings successful young entrepreneurs, all in their 20s, to college campuses so that they can share their stories with other students.