Senator Coons spent Friday morning at the coIN Loft in Wilmington, having breakfast with some of the area’s most dynamic and innovative entrepreneurs. The coIN Loft was started by Steve Roettger and Wes Garnett just over a year ago, and it occupies about 2,200 square feet in downtown Wilmington. Set up as a co-working environment, where tenants pay an affordable fee to use their space and facilities, the coIN Loft gives start up business owners the opportunity to take advantage of meeting space, offices and most importantly, each other’s experience.
These innovative business leaders spoke with Chris about the importance of entrepreneurs to the economy and what can be done to strengthen the entrepreneurial environment in Delaware.
Chris discussed some of the legislative successes that came out of Congress last year and listened to feedback about the importance of continuing to encourage entrepreneurship throughout Delaware and the United States. Everyone at the table shared stories about opportunities they found in the private sector and how they dealt with the challenges that come with taking risks and pursuing one’s passion.
In addition to the founders Wes and Steve, Chris was joined by about 12 other entrepreneurs including Tim McIntosh of Fairbridge Venture Partners, Lee Mikles of the Archer Group, Stefun Hawkins and Ron Berry of MyFanCountry, and Zach Phillips of the Spoke Project. The conversation ranged from how to protect intellectual property to the group’s interest in Steve Case’s Startup America initiative.
Chris came away from the breakfast energized by the passion and excitement of Delaware’s young entrepreneurs. He was particularly impressed by stories of how working in an open environment like the coIN Loft helped start ups become more productive and successful. Chris encouraged the participants to continue building the diverse community of entrepreneurs in Delaware and offered a number of specific suggestions on ways he might be able to help.
Click here to read more about Chris’ efforts to support small businesses and create jobs.