“Entrepreneurship needs faith to animate it, and faith needs to be shaped by an entrepreneurial mindset.” – Dr. L. Greg Jones
Dr. L. Greg Jones delivered an inspiring keynote at the first L.I.F.E. Teaching Conference on Faith and Entrepreneurship (2024), emphasizing the vital intersection of faith and an entrepreneurial mindset. He argued that there is mutual enrichment at their intersection.
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Three Crucial Themes:
- Character: Dr. Jones emphasized that character is paramount for entrepreneurs, drawing from Kim Tan’s insights on virtues like humility and perseverance [10:06]. Humility keeps the focus on a larger purpose [10:41], while perseverance and hope help overcome obstacles [11:01]. Moreover, faith can enhance teamwork and relationships [11:37].
- Entrepreneurial mindset: This extends beyond starting a business, involving continuous innovation and problem-solving [12:21]. It’s applicable across disciplines, not just business [14:27]. This mindset encourages constant iteration, growth, and improvisation [13:36].
- Imaginative storytelling: Dr. Jones noted an “imagination deficit disorder” that hinders entrepreneurial vision [15:51]. He emphasized the need to lift up inspiring exemplars like Marguerite (“Maggie”) Barankitse, Kim Tan, Don Flow, and Justin Bean [18:52], to highlight interdisciplinary collaboration [20:06], and to illuminate the role of institutions and networks [21:05].
Key Action Steps for Entrepreneurs:
- Cultivate character: Develop virtues like humility and hope to sustain your ventures [10:06].
- Embrace a team-based approach: Build strong relationships and communities around your work [11:45].
Key Action Steps for College Professors:
- Promote an entrepreneurial mindset across disciplines: Infuse this mindset university-wide, not just in business schools [14:00].
- Encourage interdisciplinary collaboration: Create opportunities for diverse disciplines to work on projects together [15:04].
