Technology evolves rapidly, and innovation is key to business survival, so mentoring young professionals, promoting entrepreneurship, and connecting tech startups to a global network of experts and resources are essential.
Some IEEE volunteers do all of the above and more as part of the IEEE Entrepreneurship Ambassador Program.
The program was launched in 2018 in IEEE Region 8 (Europe, Middle East, and Africa) thanks to a grant from the IEEE Foundation. The ambassadors organize networking events with industry representatives to help IEEE young professionals and student members achieve their entrepreneurial endeavors and strengthen their technical, interpersonal, and business skills. The ambassadors also organize pitch competitions in their geographic area.
The ambassador program launched this year in Region 10 (Asia Pacific).
Last year the program was introduced in Region 9 (Latin America) with funding from the Taenzer Memorial Fund. The results of the program’s inaugural year were impressive: 13 ambassadors organized events in Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico, Panama, Peru, and Uruguay.
“The program is beneficial because it connects entrepreneurs with industry professionals, fosters mentorship, helps young professionals build leadership skills, and creates opportunities for startup sponsorships,” says Susana Lau, vice chair of IEEE Entrepreneurship in Latin America. “The program has also proven successful in attracting IEEE volunteers to serve as ambassadors and helping to support entrepreneurship and startup ventures.”
Lau, an IEEE senior member, is a past president of the IEEE Panama Section and an active IEEE Women in Engineering volunteer.
A professional development opportunity
People who participated in the Region 9 program say the experience was life-changing, both personally and professionally.
Pedro José Pineda, whose work was recognized with one of the region’s two Top Ambassador Awards, says he’s been able to “expand international collaborations and strengthen the innovation ecosystem in Latin America.
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