WASHINGTON, Jan. 31 (UPI) -- A nationwide campaign to promote entrepreneurship and innovation, accelerate research and address barriers for success kicked off Monday at the White House.
The effort, "Startup America," builds on President Obama's State of the Union goal that America "out-innovate, out-educate, and out-build the rest of the world" to win the future.
"Entrepreneurs embody the promise of America: The belief that if you have a good idea and are willing to work hard and see it through, you can succeed in this country," Obama said. "And in fulfilling this promise, entrepreneurs also play a critical role in expanding our economy and creating jobs."
"That's the basis for Startup America, a national campaign to help win the future by knocking down barriers in the path of men and women in every corner of this country hoping to take a chance, follow a dream, and start a business."
Startup America represents a historic partnership with business leaders, investors, universities, foundations and non-profits, Obama said.
"For entrepreneurs speak to what's best about America, and in their drive and innovative spirit -- in their willingness to take a risk on a bold idea -- we can see the future," he said. "We can see how America will compete and win in the 21st century global economy."
