HB1172: Office of entrepreneurship and innovation.

Legislative Summary

Office of entrepreneurship and innovation. Establishes the office of entrepreneurship and innovation (office). Requires the office to: (1) develop and administer programs to support the growth of small business, entrepreneurship, and innovation in Indiana; (2) direct and oversee programs and sources of funding related to the growth of small business, entrepreneurship, technology, and innovation in Indiana; (3) work to strengthen policies and programs supporting the growth of entrepreneurship in Indiana; (4) coordinate with state agencies and other state funded entities to align services and programs related to entrepreneurship and starting and scaling a business; (5) work with funded entities on identifying strategies and metrics around the disbursement of funds to measure funds reaching rural communities and other underrepresented socioeconomic communities; (6) work with stakeholders and organizations supporting entrepreneurship to enhance learning and skills, provide technical support, and expand access to resources for entrepreneurs across Indiana; and (7) develop and administer programs to support and encourage youth entrepreneurship, including supporting students and teachers in fostering entrepreneurial skills.