WPI to Host 5th Annual U.S.-Africa Business Conference; Promotes Partnerships Between American, African Companies

Media Contact
June 03, 2008

What

Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI), a leading university in science, management, engineering, technology, and global education, will host the 5th annual U.S.-Africa Business Conference. This year's conference will focus on the roles innovation and entrepreneurship play in U.S. and Africa business development. The conference will include speakers and panel discussions on entrepreneurship and innovation, education (new approaches to teaching and methods necessary to develop new business enterprises in African nations); infrastructure, housing, and the environment; financing innovation; and developing technology (IT). Panelists will represent chambers of commerce in Africa, professors, and African and American community-based groups.

When

June 9, 2008: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; June 10: 9 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. (includes WPI Venture Forum on June 10, from 5-8:30 p.m.)

Where

Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Campus Center, Odeum (top level)

100 Institute Road, Worcester, Mass.

Why

The U.S.-Africa Business Conference promotes partnerships and linkages between the educational, economic, and technological needs of U.S.-based businesses and African companies and government.

The conference came about through collaboration between WPI, the U.S. Department of Education’s Business and International Division and the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce. WPI’s strong connection to Africa was cemented in 2002 when the university’s project center in Windhoek, Namibia was founded as part of WPI’s Global Projects Program. WPI also has a project center in Cape Town, South Africa.

For more information, or if you experience difficulties in registering, contact Ruth McKeough at 508-831-6699.