Ciecko a Finalist at Global Entrepreneur Competition

Any friend of Mick's is a friend of mine. Brendan Ciecko is one of, if not the most successful entrepreneurs in Granby. And he's not very old either.

On November 1-2, the top young entrepreneurs from across the globe all traveled to Chicago for the GSEA Global Finals Competition, sponsored by the EO and Mercedes-Benz Financial.Over the course of several months in 2006, 750+ students from around the world entered the competition, gave presentations in their native regions, and the winners from each iteration progressed to the Global Finals.

I was one of the 24 finalists who traveled to Chicago to showcase my entrepreneurial spirit, share my story, and network with other business people who shared the same passion for enterprise. I met some of the most incredible student entrepreneurs who have started companies involved in industries as diverse as high-end fashion, health care, real estate investment, web development, and food products. The enthusiasm and energy was unlike anything I've ever seen.

I had the great honor of presenting my company, Ten Minute Media, as a student of Hampshire College - yes, entrepreneurs are still popping up in The Pioneer Valley. I highlighted the my company's achievements, business model, future ventures, and stunning list of clients - Warner Brothers, Universal, SonyBMG, Clear Channel, and MassMutual. By the end of the weekend, fellow entrepreneurs, EO members, and judges addressed me as "Mick Jagger" or the "Music Guy" due to my meeting with Sir Mick Jagger of the RollingStones in NYC to launch http://www.mickjagger.com/.

From the original 24 Finalists that presented, the EO judges narrowed the competition down to the "Final Six" and then to the first, second, and third. Fraser Doherty (SuperJam) of Scotland took home the first place 2007 Global Student Entrepreneur Award... if you saw his presentation, your jaw would have dropped. He is one of most enthusiastic, driven, and modest people I've ever encountered. His product isn't yet available in the USA but its only a matter of time before he takes America by storm!

This event was hosted in collaboration with the Collegiate Entrepreneurs' Organization (CEO) resulting in the attendance of over 1,500 aspiring entrepreneurs collectively from all over the globe. Inspiring speeches were given by founders/CEOs of major corporations such as Century 21, Republic of Tea, and Ominture as well as the leaders of the GSEA and Entrepreneurs' Organization (EO).

More than anything, this weekend was a grand celebration of entrepreneurship.

I invite you to check out some of the pictures from this adventure http://www.gsea.org/gallery/main.php and of my presentation http://www.gsea.org/gallery/main.php?g2_itemId=1944.