Movement to promote Entrepreneurship

I believe that it's during tough times that human that we see the best in ingenuity and creativity. I was thrilled to see that there's a new campaign being aired in Brazil mobilizing young professionals and students to become entrepreneurs. The Endeavor Institute has launched a cultural movement called "Bota Pra Fazer" (that roughly translates as 'Make It Happen'), the local chapter of a global movement. 

On the Endeavor website, there's an interesting call to action: "Unless you get out of your chair, your ideas won't get on their feet."  

One of the TV spots I just saw on air features Luiz Seabra, one of the founders of Natura Cosmetics and one of Brazil's most inspiring business leaders.  A visionary who built one of the country's most respected and corporately-responsible companies.

This is an absolutely wonderful initiative that we should all applaud. At a time of so much volatility and uncertainty, maybe it is the right time to promote new ideas... that may become new and exciting businesses... created by a new generation of leaders who will make the business world a better place.  

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Making it Easy to Set Up a Web Store

There has never been a more fascinating time for entrepreneurs. My friend, James Maul, told me about Amazon's service called WebStore that allows small businesses to create their very own e-commerce website using Amazon's technology infrastructure. I went to check it out. Great news for someone interested in selling designer shoes from Milan or bourbon coffee from Bahia. You pay a 7% commission, which includes credit card processing fees and fraud protection, and a subscription fee of $59.95/month, no matter how many WebStores you set up. Time to brush off that old business plan you discussed with a friend over a few beers.