Guest blog post by Michael Burcham, CEO of Narus Health and Co-Chair of the 2014-2016 NACIE Board 

Two years ago, I had the opportunity to become a part of the National Advisory Council on Innovation and Entrepreneurship (NACIE). I walked into the kickoff meeting with much enthusiasm. Yes, it was indeed an honor to be asked to serve our great country in such a role. Yes, I was going to meet other bright minds from all over the country — many of whom I either knew or had read about their work. And, I knew the wo rk would be engaging. But the greater value — one that I did not fully appreciate until now — was how significant the opportunity would be to help communities across our country. 

As NACIE began its work, we shared stories of both success and challenges in our respective markets, and we also shared best practices and ideas that would help improve our communities. Through these stories, I gained so much insight on how various cities across the nation were building out their entrepreneurial ecosystems.

Over the past two years, we have generated thoughts and created success stories to bring new ideas for innovation to both urban and rural communities. We have researched and published insights on how to support early stage entrepreneurs, including access to capital and business model development. Additionally, we have evaluated methods to help prepare citizens in our communities for the new job market in a technology-driven economy. We have also seen firsthand the challenges that cities face in providing everyone an opportunity to have a seat at the table, especially women and ethnic minorities who wish to start a business.  

Over the past year, we have also brought members of NACIE to three communities — Nashville, Austin and Chicago — to engage with both public and private sector leaders in thinking about economic development through innovation and entrepreneurship. These conversations have been a powerful way to not only share the work of NACIE, but to also learn firsthand from these cities of their own challenges and success. Being a part of this great team of leaders has also been a way to engage mayors, city councils, corporate leaders, nonprofit leaders, investors, universities and startup entrepreneurs in a common conversation.

As I approach the end of my term on the National Advisory Council on Innovation and Entrepreneurship , I'm reminded that there are so many amazing men and women throughout our country that are not only passionate about innovation and entrepreneurship, but have dedicated their lives and careers to making an impact. I'm grateful to have met so many of these individuals over the past two years. I've learned. I've improved personally. I've changed. This has been one of the most memorable experiences of my life.

I look forward to continuing to facilitate economic development through innovation and entrepreneurship.