2012 will officially be the year of the entrepreneur in Virginia.
Gov. Bob McDonnell signed a proclamation this morning at the State Capitol as about 100 entrepreneurs from across the state were on hand for a kick-off event including a town-hall meeting and remarks by Shawn Boyer, the founder and CEO of Henrico County-based Snagajob.
"We want to hold these entrepreneurs up as role models, especially to folks like recent college graduates who may be looking to start a business," McDonnell said.
Lt. Gov. Bill Bolling, who also spoke at the event, said the state wants to promote all businesses, but especially companies in such areas as advanced manufacturing, biotechnology, life sciences and agriculture.
"We believe in rewarding people who take risks, and these entrepreneurs take risks every day," Bolling said.
The governor's office plans to hold a business-plan competition, more roundtable events, a college "elevator pitch" competition and monthly office hours during which McDonnell will meet with entrepreneurs.
No additional budget appropriations have been requested for the programs, which will be funded by the governor's office.
(This has been a breaking news update. Check back for more details as they become available.)
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